Building Legacies | The Story of Kansas Financial Resources
By MORGAN CHILSON | Photo by JENNIFER GOETZ
In 1983, the trajectory of Scott Hunsicker’s life took a monumental turn. At just 21 years old, he found himself at Montgomery Ward department store, where an unexpected job offer from Bob Evenson changed his life.
Evenson recruited Scott to venture into the realm of selling life insurance and retirement BUILDING LEGACIES planning services under the banner of Kansas City Life. Little did they know, this collaboration would be the start of the independent financial planning entity known today as Kansas Financial Resources (KFR), which recently commemorated four decades of service.
With the inception of KFR, Scott’s vision attracted like-minded individuals. Todd Zimlich came aboard as a producer in 1993, coinciding with KFR’s official incorporation. Fast forward to 2004 and Scott’s son, Eric Hunsicker, had joined the ranks. Together, they form the foundation of KFR, a business deeply rooted in family values and a commitment to guiding clients through their financial journeys.
CORNERSTONES
“In our office, advice and accountability are our cornerstones,” said Scott, the president of KFR. “During life’s pivotal transitions — be it bereavement, disability or retirement — having a dependable advisor is paramount. The financial landscape is ever-changing and at KFR, we continually broaden our role and educational resources to safeguard our clients’ interests.”
The Hunsicker duo lead KFR’s culture of integrity, and sustained growth, attributing it to their responsive approach to client needs. Two decades ago when Eric assumed his role within the company, he pursued the Certified Financial Planning designation, bolstering KFR’s commitment to holistic client care.
“Eric’s stewardship and commitment to our clients has been invaluable,” said Scott. Today, Eric spearheads KFR’s Financial Planning operations, nurturing existing client relationships and fostering new connections to ensure sustained client commitment.
For Scott and Eric, integrity is key especially when entrusted with the financial well-being of families across generations. “Our foremost duty is client welfare,” said Eric. “Cultivating genuine relationships has been the cornerstone of KFR’s success.”
Financial literacy is central to their process. Scott said that he is candid with his clients when they discuss investment principles, and he cautions against impulsive decisions driven by emotions. “Fear and worry can cloud judgment,” he said, adding that he advocates for rational and informed decisions.
FAMILY AND COMMUNITY
Navigating the demands of their family business is not without its challenges. “It’s not for everyone,” said Eric, reflecting on their father-son dynamic. However, the team at KFR believe that their values of honesty and continued education have propelled their business forward.
Scott said that KFR strives to not only be a family business, but also a community business. That means being involved in civic and philanthropic organizations to make Topeka and Shawnee County stronger, like Toys for Tots, the United Way and the 20/30 Club.
In addition to giving to local charities and fundraisers, Scott was instrumental in creating a stimulus fund called Helping Others Support Topeka (HOST), designed to help Topeka businesses with monetary pandemic relief in 2020. The project raised $2 million for local businesses.
LOOKING FORWARD
Scott, Eric, Todd and the KFR team said they anticipate continued growth, fueled by the trust and recommendations of their clientele.
Scott said he extends gratitude to the Topeka community, acknowledging their pivotal role in KFR’s evolution.
“Our journey began with diligence, trust and opportunity,” said Scott. “To our clients, we owe an immeasurable debt of gratitude for their unwavering trust.”
