Client Exclusive: Cheryl A., Dedicated Mentor and Mother from North Carolina

For more than a decade, Cheryl has volunteered with a youth organization that mentors young people to help them be good citizens and leaders. Through lessons like public speaking and community building, they’ve helped shape the next generation — an experience Cheryl describes as “awesome” and deeply rewarding.

She also works as a finance account representative and understands the importance of money management. Still, despite her financial knowledge, her desire to help her son achieve a dream of homeownership led her to take on more debt than she could manage.

Before Beyond Finance: A Maxed Out Mentor

Over the years, Cheryl used credit cards to cover various expenses while she helped out her son. At first, it seemed manageable — but she shared how the balances eventually snowballed out of control.

How did you get into debt? 

My debt accumulated gradually over the years. It was mostly credit card debt from trying to help my son save up to purchase his own home. I wanted to save him money, but I ended up putting too much on credit cards.

The Impact of Cheryl’s Financial Stress

As the interest grew, Cheryl’s minimum payments barely made a dent and she began to feel trapped.

What did it feel like to have that much debt? 

Being in debt was super stressful. Paying only the minimum felt like being in a long, dark tunnel that would never end. The interest rates just kept me stuck.

Recognizing It Was Time for a Change

When all her credit cards reached their limits, Cheryl realized something had to change. She had been cycling payments from one card to another, trying to keep up—but it only made things worse.

How did you know it was time to ask for help? 

I knew it was time to get out of debt when all of my cards were maxed out. Many times I would borrow from one card to pay off another and that eventually caught up to me. It’s a scary feeling to feel like you’re drowning in debt.

Finding Relief Through Beyond Finance

Searching online for debt resolution options in North Carolina led Cheryl to Beyond Finance. From the very first call, she felt comforted and supported.

The Beyond Finance representative was extremely reassuring. They gave me the confidence I needed to move forward.

Transforming Her Stress With Inclusive Support

As soon as Cheryl joined the program, she felt the weight of her debt lifting off her shoulders. Beyond Finance took care of things for her behind the scenes which has allowed her to focus on other things.

What was the best thing about working with Beyond Finance? 

The best thing about working with Beyond Finance is that the stress of dealing with creditors is no longer on me. It helps to know I have others working on my behalf.

She also finds motivation and encouragement in the program’s weekly meetings with Beyond Finance’s financial therapists, Dr. Erika Rasure and Nathan Astle.

The weekly meetings with Nate and Erica are awesome. I always feel good afterward because they’re so encouraging and give great advice about becoming debt-free.

Cheryl’s Advice for Others

Now that she’s well on her way to financial freedom, Cheryl wants others to know that the process takes time — but it’s worth it.

What advice do you give to others struggling with debt? 

Debt resolution is a process that requires patience. Trust the process.

Looking Ahead: Cheryl’s Debt-Free Plans

With her finances under control and her stress levels easing, Cheryl is finally looking forward to her next dream — becoming a homeowner.

When I’m debt-free, I plan to purchase my own home. I’ve been renting for 18 years and I’m excited at the prospect of being a homeowner.

*About this testimonial: Cheryl is a real Beyond Finance client who was compensated for sharing her experience. Her savings were calculated by subtracting her program payment from her self-reported payments or tradeline minimums.