News and Insights

Gifts for All God’s Children brings hope and joy to children and families during the Christmas season and all year long by providing those in need with supplies and sharing Christ’s love. Their mission reminds us that generosity can make a lasting impact—especially for those facing difficult circumstances.
We’re thankful for organizations that serve with compassion and purpose.
Learn more: giftsforallgodschildren.org
#NonprofitSpotlight #FaithInAction #ServingOthers #IntentionalFinancialAdvisors #ShelbyTownshipMI #Generosity
See thrivent.com/social for disclosures

Meet Mark Gugel, who joined Thrivent in 2001 and has spent more than two decades building trusted, long-term relationships with clients. Mark specializes in helping individuals and families prepare for and navigate a successful retirement—using thoughtful investment strategies, retirement income planning, and legacy planning to help reduce the impact of taxes.
In 2024, Mark was inducted into Thrivent’s Hall of Fame, recognizing his longevity, expertise, and passion for helping others.
Outside the office, Mark enjoys snow skiing, golfing, and spending time with his wife, Kristin, and their two children. Their favorite place to unwind is their family’s vacation home in Petoskey. Mark and his family are also active members of Trinity Lutheran Church in Utica.
We’re grateful for the experience, care, and heart Mark brings to our team.
#TeamSpotlight #MeetTheAdvisor #IntentionalFinancialAdvisors #ShelbyTownshipMI #RetirementPlanning #LivingGenerously
See thrivent.com/social for disclosures

📊 Small Habits. Big Impact.
Looking to strengthen your financial routine this year? Building better money habits can help you feel more confident and intentional about your finances.
Check out this helpful resource from Thrivent for practical tips you can start using today:
👉 https://www.thrivent.com/insights/magazine/winter-2025/building-better-money-habits
#MoneyHabits #FinancialWellness #IntentionalLiving #IntentionalFinancialAdvisors #ShelbyTownshipMI #FinancialPlanning
See thrivent.com/social for disclosures

If you own a home, investments, life insurance or other valuable assets, it might be time to consider a revocable or irrevocable trust.
Depending on the structure you choose, a trust can offer a variety of benefits—including privacy, tax advantages and greater control over how your assets are distributed. In some cases, it may even protect your assets from creditors or Medicaid inclusion.
Learn more about your options: https://bit.ly/3VZ6FNl

Looking for a festive holiday experience? Check out the Holiday Trian Display and Christmas Market at St. Trinity Lutheran in Clarkston! Visit https://www.sainttrinitylutheran.com/events/holiday-trains-christmas-market-3/ to learn more!
See thrivent.com/social for disclosures.
#Thrivent
#LiveGenerously

Your legacy is more than what you leave behind—it’s what you intentionally pass forward. Whether you’re still building or ready to pass it on, let’s connect to make it lasting and meaningful. Legacy planning looks different for everyone.
This guide helps you explore key areas so your plan reflects what matters most: https://bit.ly/3IeMVSD

Starting financial conversations at home is key. 🔑 Many parents wish they’d learned more about money as kids – teaching small lessons on budgeting, saving, and investing now can help change that for future generations.

Choo-Choo! Chug into the holiday season with this great event supported by Thrivent Action Teams! Visit https://www.sainttrinitylutheran.com/ to learn more.
See thrivent.com/social for disclosures.
#Thrivent
#LiveGenerously

The transition from being your parents’ child to being their protector isn’t easy—but having open conversations is essential. Understanding their wishes and knowing where key estate planning documents are kept can make all the difference when it matters most.
Here’s how to approach these conversations with empathy and clarity. ⬇️
see thrivent.com/social for important disclosures.

Estate planning guide: Essential documents & checklist
As you plan for the future, consider how you want to leave a legacy for the ones you love. This guide provides a checklist of things you’ll want to include in your estate plan, a list of important documents to consider and frequently asked questions. ⬇️

Navigating your finances after a spouse passes can be challenging. Social Security survivor benefits may be available to you depending on your age and if you care for a dependent child. Discover more here: https://bit.ly/42XZDNr
Here to connect you or your loved ones to resources that can help.

Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

On Monday, December 8th, light up your night from 5:00-9:00 p.m. with Thrivent at Wild Lights! This family-friendly event is fun for all ages and includes nearly 500 festive displays at the Detroit Zoo. Enjoy a nighttime wonderland and explore themed zones like the Enchanted Rainforest and Field of Lights, with music, fire pits and warming areas throughout the event, as well as a holiday show at the 4D theater. Visit the Thrivent Team at the Wildlife Interpretive Gallery (Butterfly House) for a generosity experience and holiday goodies for each attendee!
Register here: https://bit.ly/WLGLSocial
Registration required. Individual contact information for each attendee required upon registration. Tickets are $5.
No products will be sold. See thrivent.com/social for important disclosure information.

Share a photo or description in the comments!

“Everyone who drinks of this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks of the water that I will give him will never be thirsty again. The water that I will give him will become in him a spring of water welling up to eternal life.” - John 4:13-14
Brian and Crystal were blessed to join financial advisors and Thrivent corporate employees from across the country to build cisterns for rural families in Brazil. This is one example of Thrivent's partnership with Habitat for Humanity. To learn more about the partnership and get involved, visit: https://www.thrivent.com/about-us/membership/habitat-for-humanity.

Who can deny that a hand packed lunch is a symbol of love and care? Recently, members came together to prepare lunches for victims of human trafficking. Included with the lunches were messages of hope. Thank you for Living Generously!
For more information on Elli’s House, visit https://www.ellishouse313.com/
See thrivent.com/social for disclosures.

Just married? Now’s a great time to align on what generosity looks like for your family. Have a conversation with your loved one about how you want to give, serve and support the causes you care about—together.
If you want to discuss how to integrate generosity into your financial plan, let’s schedule time to meet.
See thrivent.com/social for important disclosures.

👻 Happy Halloween! 🎃
Don’t let your finances haunt you! The scariest thing isn’t debt—it’s not having a plan. Start early and turn today’s money moves into tomorrow’s treats.🍬💰
Let’s talk about a plan that helps you feel secure—today and in the future.
See thrivent.com/social for disclosures.

You, LORD, keep my lamp burning; my God turns my darkness into light. - Psalm 18:28

Preparing for financial surprises doesn't have to be complicated. Proactive planning can help you stay ahead of market swings and other risks that can impact your financial plan. Learn more about strategies to set you up for long-term success: https://bit.ly/4m32xHO