Derek Brown is offering a free workshop, “Investing for the Rest of Us,” aimed at making financial investing more accessible and empowering attendees to take control of their financial futures.

Set for Tuesday, March 11, between 6-8 p.m. at Crossroads Church at 726 W. Francis in Aspen (with coffee and tea starting at 5:30 p.m.), the session promises to break down complex financial concepts into clear, practical strategies in a supportive environment. Brown, who has a background in accounting and finance, hopes to help others avoid the mistakes he made early on.

“I have an accounting and finance background, and I made all the mistakes years ago, and people do not need to make those same mistakes,” he said. “Hopefully, I can help people understand the financial world a little bit in a couple of hours and eliminate a lot of the mystery and fear around it.”

Attendees will explore three effective ways to invest in technology, learn to sidestep common investment pitfalls, and develop long-term financial strategies. The workshop will also cover how to assess 401(k), IRA, and Social Security benefits while fostering open conversations about money — free from fear and stress.

“In a community with such wealth, it has always occurred to me that we don’t talk enough about money in Aspen,” he said. “I believe we should share and compare information and experience and hopefully grow together in understanding financial principles.”

Beyond his financial expertise, Brown is also a pastor and musician. He sees this workshop as a way to bridge financial divides in Aspen and help people gain confidence in their financial decisions.

“The markets can be a little scary right now, but it’s important people understand that this is a long game,” he said. “Certainly, there will be a correction in the market, but I am going to teach Dollar Cost Averaging to show what a hundred dollars invested today can do in 25 years.”

The event will also offer a historical perspective, featuring a display of rare American stock and bond certificates, some dating back to the 1800s, illustrating the evolution of financial markets.

The workshop is open to everyone, regardless of financial experience.

“I just want to help the average person. They can be as savvy as anyone else in Aspen, Colorado, if they just put a little time into investing,” he said.