After attending college in Colorado with a major in business and a minor in psychology, Charles first moved to Massachusetts in 1987.  His success in his "first career" as a radio and TV host gave him an opportunity to “see the world” and live in places like San Francisco, San Diego, Minneapolis, and London, England where he spent two years.  Upon his return to Boston in the ‘90’s he was ready to call New England home.  In 2001 he made the decision to start his new career assisting retirees and pre-retirees in part because of what happened to his Grandma Josie.

"My Grandma's last 5 years were spent in a nursing home, and it was very hard on my family.  She lost most of what she had to Medicaid, but the financial toll was nothing compared to the emotional cost.  If I knew then what I know now, we would have done things differently.  Her quality of life would have been much better in those final years.  Now I am able to help other families from going through what mine did by helping them plan.”

In addition to being licensed in insurance in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Ohio, North Carolina, and Colorado, Mr. Hackett is also registered with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts as an investment advisor representative.  Having completed the Series 65 Uniform Investment Adviser Law Exam, he started his own independent Registered Investment Adviser firm, Beacon Retirement Group, LLC.  He offers fee- based planning, wealth management, and investment advice to individuals and companies.   

As a business owner, Mr. Hackett is committed to giving back to his community.  He has been recognized by the Massachusetts House of Representatives and the United States Congress for his support of the community and area retirees.  The Senior Scramble Golf Tournament to benefit the Merrimac Council on Aging has become their largest single fundraiser.  In addition to starting, coordinating, and sponsoring this tournament, Mr. Hackett has worked closely with Laura Dillingham-Mailman, past President of the Massachusetts Council on Aging, for ways to maintain and improve activities and services for our retired residents.  A five year member of his town's Finance Committee, he is now a board member of the Merrimac Council on Aging, and volunteers regularly at local senior centers.

Charles is an avid golfer, enthusiastic traveler, and amateur chef.  He was a ski instructor for the blind in Vail Colorado.  He has a passion for "all flying things" that he got from his father, Larry, who was a "great pilot."  His wife, Michelle, a Harvard graduate and local high school teacher, were married in 2001 and live in Merrimac, MA.  Both are active in the community and have a five year old daughter and  three year old son. 

The Hackett Family