ABOUT US
CHARTER OAK FINANCIAL GROUP, INC
Charter Oak Financial Group, Inc. (COFG) is a financial service organization that specializes in innovative retirement solutions for small business owners and professional practitioners. Additionally, our practice works with the successful individual business owner/professional, implementing leveraged funding vehicles that satisfy their Estate Liquidity needs.
Our Approach
Specialized Expertise: We leverage our extensive experience in insurance and investment, totaling over 100 years, to craft tailored solutions for small business owners and professional practitioners seeking innovative retirement options and estate liquidity funding.
Customized Solutions: Through collaborative evaluation and design processes, we develop selective executive retirement plans, buy/sell funding strategies, Estate liquidity solutions, and key person indemnification approaches, ensuring each client’s unique needs are met effectively.
Efficient implementation and service: Our approach emphasizes cost efficiency, providing business owners and professionals with innovative yet financially sustainable solutions that maximize their benefits while minimizing expenses.
Meet Our Experts
Michael Prairie
President & Founder
COFG, Inc. of Southington CT
Charter Oak is a Tax and Retirement planning organization specializing in niche insurance and pension programs. Michael A. Prairie, Sr. has 40+ years of experience in the Financial Services Industry and was a national leader in product development and assisting banks in gaining insurance powers. Prior, Michael A. Prairie, Sr. was VP/Director of Insurance Sales and Marketing for Summit Bank a $50b financial institution headquartered in Princeton, NJ. Michael A. Prairie, Sr. is a 1977 Brown University Graduate and Captain of their 1976 Ivy League Championship Football Team.
Joseph Casamento
Regional Director
COFG, Inc. of Syracuse, NY
Joe brings over 50 years of leadership experience to COFG, Inc. He has been the Head Coach of Nationally Ranked High School Football programs for more than 40 years. Joe also founded “Lead USA,” in 2003, which offered leadership and character-building training to Schools and Businesses. Most recently, Joe was the Executive Director of the “Entrepreneurial Center for Innovation and Character” at St. John’s College High School in Washington DC, working directly with Under Armour helping to create young entrepreneurs of character and integrity. We are excited to have him on our team.
Michael Vaccaro
Regional Director
COFG, Inc. of St. Petersburg, FL
Michael serves as Regional Director at COFG, Inc., where he focuses on institutional premium financing, business development, and operational strategy. A strategic executive with 17 years of experience including 11 years as Chief of Staff at Doran Jones Inc. Michael brings expertise in Finance, Operations, and HR. He has a proven track record of generating revenue, optimizing processes, and cultivating executive-level client relationships. During his tenure at Doran Jones Inc, Michael led initiatives to streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and scale key business functions. He is committed to delivering results-driven financial strategies while forging strong, lasting partnerships with clients and stakeholders.
Susan Prairie
Client Relationship/Account Manager
COFG, Inc. of Southington CT
With 20+ years of relationship management experience in the insurance industry. She processes all new business for life and health insurance and retirement plans. Additionally, she is responsible for providing exceptional customer service creating continued client satisfaction and growth. She also collaborates with clients to develop and deliver solutions that exceeds customer expectations in a timely manner. Finally, she is responsible for coordinating the communication and implementation of all the plans that COFG, Inc sells.

