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I've got valuable information and resources to share. Explore away! And check back often.

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Last week my wife and I had the privilege of attending ICCF’s Houses to Homes Gala, and it was an incredibly moving evening. We heard powerful stories from residents whose lives have been transformed through safe, stable housing and a community that walks alongside them. What stood out most was the faith woven through so many of those stories — hearing people openly share how God carried them through difficult seasons was both humbling and encouraging. As CEO Ryan Verwys shared, evenings like this help reinvigorate the mission and reconnect us to the cause. It’s easy to lose sight of how impactful this work is until you hear the real stories behind it. We left grateful for organizations like ICCF that are God driven and serve with dignity, compassion, and hope. It’s a reminder that when people of faith step up to serve their neighbors, real transformation happens. If you’re looking for a way to make a difference locally, I’d encourage you to prayerfully consider supporting ICCF or another organization working to strengthen our communities — whether through volunteering, giving, or simply lifting them up in prayer. #HousestoHomes #ICCFGala26

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Last week my wife and I had the privilege of attending ICCF’s Houses to Homes Gala, and it was an incredibly moving evening. We heard powerful stories from residents whose lives have been transformed through safe, stable housing and a community that walks alongside them. What stood out most was the faith woven through so many of those stories — hearing people openly share how God carried them through difficult seasons was both humbling and encouraging. As CEO Ryan Verwys shared, evenings like this help reinvigorate the mission and reconnect us to the cause. It’s easy to lose sight of how impactful this work is until you hear the real stories behind it. We left grateful for organizations like ICCF that are God driven and serve with dignity, compassion, and hope. It’s a reminder that when people of faith step up to serve their neighbors, real transformation happens. If you’re looking for a way to make a difference locally, I’d encourage you to prayerfully consider supporting ICCF or another organization working to strengthen our communities — whether through volunteering, giving, or simply lifting them up in prayer. #HousestoHomes #ICCFGala26

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Our family had the opportunity to volunteer at the Family Network Food Pantry in Wyoming as part of my wife’s Action Team — and it was such a meaningful experience. If you’re not familiar, Action Teams are a simple but powerful way to rally around causes you care about most. They create space for people to show up, serve together, and support organizations making a real difference locally. For us, the most valuable part was being able to involve our boys. There’s something powerful about serving alongside your kids and letting them see generosity, teamwork, and compassion in action. We were especially encouraged by the heart of the staff and volunteers at Family Network. The kindness and dedication on display were a reminder that strong communities are built by people willing to give their time. Grateful for the opportunity to serve together as a family — and proud of our boys for jumping in and helping. See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures.

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Our family had the opportunity to volunteer at the Family Network Food Pantry in Wyoming as part of my wife’s Action Team — and it was such a meaningful experience. If you’re not familiar, Action Teams are a simple but powerful way to rally around causes you care about most. They create space for people to show up, serve together, and support organizations making a real difference locally. For us, the most valuable part was being able to involve our boys. There’s something powerful about serving alongside your kids and letting them see generosity, teamwork, and compassion in action. We were especially encouraged by the heart of the staff and volunteers at Family Network. The kindness and dedication on display were a reminder that strong communities are built by people willing to give their time. Grateful for the opportunity to serve together as a family — and proud of our boys for jumping in and helping. See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures.

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Financial literacy for teens: 6 lessons about money management

One of the greatest gifts you can offer your teenager is teaching them about money. In a few years, they'll face financial decisions that demand a long-term perspective. Here are ways to start the conversation. ⬇️

Teenagers tend to live in the here and now, especially when it comes to money. In just a few short years, however, they'll need to make important financial...

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This month we celebrated our sweet Aiden turning 7 🤍 We’re so incredibly grateful for his creativity, his talents, and most of all his loving heart. Watching the way he thinks, builds, imagines, and cares for others is such a gift. God knew exactly what He was doing when He gave him to our family. We pray he continues to grow in wisdom, confidence, and kindness — and that he always knows how deeply he is loved. Seven looks good on you, buddy. 🎉

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This month we celebrated our sweet Aiden turning 7 🤍 We’re so incredibly grateful for his creativity, his talents, and most of all his loving heart. Watching the way he thinks, builds, imagines, and cares for others is such a gift. God knew exactly what He was doing when He gave him to our family. We pray he continues to grow in wisdom, confidence, and kindness — and that he always knows how deeply he is loved. Seven looks good on you, buddy. 🎉

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Money stress is one of the biggest sources of tension in relationships. But clarity changes that. When couples understand where they’re headed and why, confidence increases and conflict decreases. If you and your spouse haven’t had a structured conversation about your goals in a while, I’d be honored to help facilitate one. Strong plans build strong families.

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Money stress is one of the biggest sources of tension in relationships. But clarity changes that. When couples understand where they’re headed and why, confidence increases and conflict decreases. If you and your spouse haven’t had a structured conversation about your goals in a while, I’d be honored to help facilitate one. Strong plans build strong families.

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Interest rates are shifting. Understanding the purpose and timeline of your cash can help you decide whether and how to invest it for optimal returns. Ask yourself two questions. ⬇️ See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures.

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Interest rates are shifting. Understanding the purpose and timeline of your cash can help you decide whether and how to invest it for optimal returns. Ask yourself two questions. ⬇️ See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures.

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Thrivent & GR Rise Date Night: Forging a Financial Future, Together

💬 “We should probably talk about money…” 😬 cue the tension OR… 🍽️ Dinner 🏀 A GR RISE game 💛 And a guided, low‑pressure conversation about money that doesn’t feel awkward I heard about a couples’ date night in GR that blends all of that together—focused on communication and shared goals, not sales or spreadsheets. No products sold. Just a thoughtful conversation, a meal, and a fun night out. Worth a look if you’re planning a date anyway 👇 👉 https://www.eventbrite.com/e/thrivent-gr-rise-date-night-forging-a-financial-future-together-tickets-1982314064730?aff=oddtdtcreator

Find common ground with your partner about money and learn ways to successfully move from “mine” and “yours” to “ours.”

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What an awesome day (couple weeks back) at United We Play! 🎮🙌 Teams from across West Michigan came together for a high‑energy, game‑filled competition — all in the spirit of learning, connecting, and giving back. The best part? 100% of the registration proceeds supported the Heart of West Michigan United Way, helping strengthen programs that create real impact in our community. Huge thanks to Steelcase for hosting this first‑of‑its‑kind event and giving us a behind‑the‑scenes tour of their campus. Their innovative office spaces, ergonomic chairs, and cutting‑edge furniture solutions were seriously impressive — you can tell they design with people and collaboration in mind. Events like this remind me how powerful it is when companies come together to grow, compete, and make a difference. Already looking forward to next year! 🙏💙

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What an awesome day (couple weeks back) at United We Play! 🎮🙌 Teams from across West Michigan came together for a high‑energy, game‑filled competition — all in the spirit of learning, connecting, and giving back. The best part? 100% of the registration proceeds supported the Heart of West Michigan United Way, helping strengthen programs that create real impact in our community. Huge thanks to Steelcase for hosting this first‑of‑its‑kind event and giving us a behind‑the‑scenes tour of their campus. Their innovative office spaces, ergonomic chairs, and cutting‑edge furniture solutions were seriously impressive — you can tell they design with people and collaboration in mind. Events like this remind me how powerful it is when companies come together to grow, compete, and make a difference. Already looking forward to next year! 🙏💙

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The cost of cash: Where to invest when interest rates shift

Whether you’re saving for something big, looking to generate a steady income, or seeking flexible access to your cash, there are smart ways to keep your money productive and there for you when you need it—regardless of shifting interest rates. Explore your options below and let’s connect to keep your goals on track as interest rates change.

Keeping too much cash on hand can hurt your portfolio. Discover tips to help optimize returns when rates fluctuate. Contact a financial...

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Hearing Justin Forsett speak at #BDC2026 was incredibly grounding and motivating for me. Thank you, @Justin Forsett, for sharing your story and wisdom. Justin spoke about how much of true growth happens long before anyone sees it—“Greatness grows best in the shadows.” As a financial advisor, there are long seasons of quiet work, uncertainty, and pressure to prove yourself—often while navigating things completely outside your control. He emphasized embracing difficulty and excelling at what is controllable—our effort, our preparation, our discipline. That message hit home for me. I’ve faced moments of imposter syndrome and setbacks that weren’t of my own making, but I was reminded that faithfulness in the daily work still matters. Another powerful reminder was “Don’t let anyone put you in a box or label your potential.” That applies not just professionally, but spiritually. We are called for much more than limiting beliefs or temporary circumstances. Justin also spoke about readiness versus preparation—and that anyone can be ready, but preparation is intentional. He shared, “If you aim at nothing, you’ll hit it every time,” reinforcing the importance of clarity, discipline, and boundaries when our feet hit the floor each day. What resonated most was the faith-centered foundation behind it all: “The light inside of you is stronger than anything you will face,” and the reminder that God has not called us to deferred love, joy, or peace—we have access to those now, even in seasons of change and uncertainty. Finally, he stressed the importance of building a huddle—and that was reinforced for me at this conference. I met advisors from across the country, all with varying levels of tenure, and every conversation was filled with wisdom, encouragement, and motivation. I’m humbled by the outpouring of genuine care and faith shared by so many, and by hearing the why behind what drives them. I’m incredibly grateful for the team I get to work alongside and the family culture we’ve built together. Above all, we are called to serve—and to be relentless about serving. That’s the standard God calls us to, and that’s the mindset I want to bring into my work every single day. #BDC2026 #FaithAndWork #PurposeDriven #Leadership #ServantLeadership #FinancialAdvisor #TeamCulture #Calling

Hearing Justin Forsett speak at #BDC2026 was incredibly grounding and motivating for me. Thank you, @Justin Forsett, for sharing your story and wisdom. Justin spoke about how much of true growth happens long before anyone sees it—“Greatness grows best in the shadows.” As a financial advisor, there are long seasons of quiet work, uncertainty, and pressure to prove yourself—often while navigating things completely outside your control. He emphasized embracing difficulty and excelling at what is controllable—our effort, our preparation, our discipline. That message hit home for me. I’ve faced moments of imposter syndrome and setbacks that weren’t of my own making, but I was reminded that faithfulness in the daily work still matters. Another powerful reminder was “Don’t let anyone put you in a box or label your potential.” That applies not just professionally, but spiritually. We are called for much more than limiting beliefs or temporary circumstances. Justin also spoke about readiness versus preparation—and that anyone can be ready, but preparation is intentional. He shared, “If you aim at nothing, you’ll hit it every time,” reinforcing the importance of clarity, discipline, and boundaries when our feet hit the floor each day. What resonated most was the faith-centered foundation behind it all: “The light inside of you is stronger than anything you will face,” and the reminder that God has not called us to deferred love, joy, or peace—we have access to those now, even in seasons of change and uncertainty. Finally, he stressed the importance of building a huddle—and that was reinforced for me at this conference. I met advisors from across the country, all with varying levels of tenure, and every conversation was filled with wisdom, encouragement, and motivation. I’m humbled by the outpouring of genuine care and faith shared by so many, and by hearing the why behind what drives them. I’m incredibly grateful for the team I get to work alongside and the family culture we’ve built together. Above all, we are called to serve—and to be relentless about serving. That’s the standard God calls us to, and that’s the mindset I want to bring into my work every single day. #BDC2026 #FaithAndWork #PurposeDriven #Leadership #ServantLeadership #FinancialAdvisor #TeamCulture #Calling

Licensing is available through your State Insurance Department’s website, which can be located through the National Association of Insurance Commissioners website.

Thrivent and its financial advisors and professionals do not provide legal, accounting or tax advice. Consult your attorney or tax professional.

Thrivent financial advisors and professionals have general knowledge of the Social Security tenets. For complete details on your situation, contact the Social Security Administration.

Thrivent provides advice and guidance through its Financial Planning Framework that generally includes a review and analysis of a client’s financial situation. A client may choose to further their planning engagement with Thrivent through its Dedicated Planning Services (an investment advisory service) that results in written recommendations for a fee.

Thrivent is the marketing name for Thrivent Financial for Lutherans. Insurance products issued by Thrivent. Not available in all states. Securities and investment advisory services offered through Thrivent Investment Management Inc., a registered investment adviser, member FINRA and SIPC, and a subsidiary of Thrivent. Licensed agent/producer of Thrivent. Registered representative of Thrivent Investment Management, Inc. thrivent.com/privacy-and-security/disclosures.

Insurance products, securities and investment advisory services are provided by appropriately appointed and licensed financial advisors and professionals. Only individuals who are financial advisors are credentialed to provide investment advisory services. Visit Thrivent.com or FINRA’s Broker Check for more information about our financial advisors.

Designations

For additional information on professional designations and the requirements to earn them, visit https://www.thrivent.com/designations

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Center for Financial Planning, Inc. owns and licenses the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER®, and CFP® (with plaque design) in the United States to Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc., which authorizes individuals who successfully complete the organization's initial and ongoing certification requirements to use the certification marks.

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