Meet Hale Fields. Born and raised in Coeur d’Alene, Hale has lived in Idaho his whole life. He moved to Boise for several years to attend Boise State University and begin his career in accounting, then moved back to Coeur d’Alene with his wife to start a family.

Generation: I guess technically I’m a millennial, but old enough that I grew up without a cell phone.

Career and community involvement: I’ve worked in public and private accounting for over 10 years, at both small local firms and large national firms. I’m currently the director of the Coeur d’Alene office for Harris CPAs. I graduated from Leadership Coeur d’Alene last year and I volunteer as the treasurer for the Coeur d’Alene Education Partnership.

Parental status: I have two amazing kids, an 8-year-old son and a 5-year-old daughter.

1. What does it mean to you to be “more than a number cruncher?”

I try to be available and involved with my clients year round, not just when it’s time to file a tax return. Being “more than a number cruncher” means that I become a trusted adviser for my clients to help them foresee challenges, take advantage of growth opportunities and improve internal processes and controls. It also means that I actively engage in the community outside of work to volunteer and give back to the community I love.

2. What are some financial trends you are seeing right now, and how can people be smart about their money during a pandemic?

The biggest issue I see currently for businesses and individuals is the unprecedented economic uncertainty we’re facing right now. Recently passed legislation such as the CARES Act and the Idaho Rebound cash grant program are providing a lifeline for many small businesses. It will be important for businesses to continue monitoring new legislation so they are aware of any new programs that could offer them assistance. People should obviously be cautious with their savings during a time like this, but we should also continue to support the local businesses that help our community thrive whenever possible. This pandemic has changed the way a lot of businesses operate and the way a lot of employees work. It’s more important than ever for businesses to effectively communicate with their employees and with their customers. Now is also the time to take a close look at your business and make some strategic decisions that will allow you to not just survive the pandemic, but improve and grow as we emerge from it.

3. Why is public education important for a healthy community?

A great public education system is an important contributor to economic growth, attracting people and businesses to the community that see the value in and support public education. Public education also can help break the cycle of poverty in low-income families, providing opportunity for students who wouldn’t have it otherwise. I started working with the Coeur d’Alene Education Partnership last year because of their dedication to work to unite individuals, businesses and organizations in our community in support of excellence in public education.

4. What is something people would be surprised to learn about you?

I became ordained online and officiated a wedding for some close friends of mine. I’ve also performed some stand-up comedy, back when I lived in Boise.

5. What is your personal mantra, motto or philosophy, and why?

I think it’s important to ask yourself what’s truly important in your life, and then make sure you put that first. Live your life intentionally. If you don’t have time to do the things that truly matter to you, stop doing the things that don’t.