Char Pendergrass
Client Service Manager
Over 35 Years of Insurance Expertise
With more than 35 years of experience, Char Pendergrass is a seasoned expert in health and life insurance planning. Since 1986, she has helped individuals and families navigate complex insurance decisions, ensuring they secure coverage tailored to their unique needs. Her deep knowledge spans health, life, dental, vision, travel, long-term care, and indemnity insurance.
Char’s career began with 15 years at Medica and HealthPartners, where she gained invaluable insights into the insurance industry. In 2001, she became an independent broker, a move that allows her to offer unbiased, client-focused advice by selecting the best plans from a wide range of carriers.
Award-Winning Excellence
Char’s dedication to her clients has earned her prestigious industry recognition:
- Agent of the Year (2022): Awarded by The LeClair Group for exceptional performance.
- Cardinal Club Member (2023-2025): Recognized for outstanding contributions and expertise as an insurance broker.
Certifications and Licenses
Since joining Focal Point Financial Services in 2012, Char has become a go-to advisor for clients facing life’s transitions - whether it’s job changes, retirement planning, or Medicare enrollment.
- Health Insurance License (since 1986)
- Life Insurance License (since 1986)
- Annual Medicare Certifications with:
- AHIP
- BCBS (Blue Cross Blue Shield)
- HealthPartners
- Medica
- UCare
- UHC (UnitedHealthcare)
- Other carriers
- MNsure Broker Certification (since 2013)
These credentials reflect Char’s qualifications as a licensed health and life insurance broker, her annual certifications to sell Medicare products with various carriers, and her authorization to operate as a broker on Minnesota’s health insurance marketplace, MNsure.
Client-First Approach
Char’s philosophy is simple: educate and empower. She takes the time to explain your options clearly, helping you make informed decisions with confidence. Her commitment to personalized service has earned her a loyal client base, with many new clients coming through referrals - a testament to the trust she builds and satisfaction she inspires.
Beyond the Office
Char lives in Nowthen, MN, with her husband of 38 years, Scott. They have four children - Karah, Kelsey, Carter, and Callie—and four granddaughters: Adrienne, Emma, Kenleigh, and Wilder. In her free time, she enjoys sewing, reading, and spending quality time with her family.
Carly Schoon
Assistant
More than 10 Years of Experience in Finance
Carly joined the Focal Point Services team in March 2021, bringing a wealth of expertise to the firm’s mission. With over a decade of dedicated experience in the finance industry, she has developed a deep understanding of complex financial landscapes and a proven track record of helping clients navigate their long-term goals. Her career is built on a foundation of precision, integrity, and a client-first approach that ensures every individual she works with feels supported and empowered.
Family First
A proud resident of New Richmond, Wisconsin, Carly balances her professional ambitions with a vibrant family life. She and her husband, Blake, are the busy parents of four children: Sophia, Bryce, Ava, and Aubrey. Whether she is cheering from the sidelines of a local game or coordinating the family’s next outing, Carly finds her greatest joy in the company of her loved ones.
A Refreshed Perspective
When she isn’t in the office, Carly is an avid reader and a true enthusiast of the Great Outdoors. She believes in the importance of a healthy work-life balance and can often be found exploring the trails and scenic landscapes of Wisconsin with her family, finding inspiration in nature to bring a refreshed perspective back to her clients at Focal Point.
Becky Horton
Assistant
A Trusted Partner in Your Financial Journey
Since joining Focal Point Financial Services in November 2021, Becky Horton has been an essential assistant to founder Jason Hedstrand, delivering exceptional support to clients and the team. Licensed in life and health insurance, Becky offers a knowledgeable and caring approach, ensuring clients feel confident and informed as they plan their financial futures. After relocating from Los Angeles to Circle Pines, Minnesota, she brought her enthusiasm and dedication to Focal Point, quickly becoming a cornerstone of the client experience.
Certifications and Licenses
- Minnesota Health & Life Insurance License
Expertise Rooted in Service
With a robust background in customer service and administration from her time in retail and hospitality, Becky excels at understanding and addressing individual client needs. Her role goes beyond logistics - she’s a friendly, reliable point of contact who simplifies the complexities of insurance and financial planning. Becky’s attention to detail and warm demeanor make every interaction seamless and reassuring.
Creativity Meets Commitment
Becky’s creative side, nurtured through her love of sewing and crafting (she’s currently perfecting an original teddy bear pattern!), brings a fresh perspective to her work. She approaches challenges with innovative solutions, enhancing processes and ensuring clients receive personalized, thoughtful service. Her passion for excellence and excitement to be part of Focal Point’s mission shine through in everything she does.
Embracing Life and Community
Outside the office, Becky enjoys Minnesota’s four seasons with her husband of over 20 years, Wesley, and their three children: Dominic, Kylie, and Micah. From laser tag and biking to kayaking, she’s all about family fun - though she’s still getting used to those Minnesota mosquitoes! Her vibrant energy and strong family values mirror the dedication she brings to supporting Focal Point’s clients.