MY STORY - WHY I DO THIS WORK

My start with Thrivent wasn’t something I always knew I would do. Prior to joining Thrivent I owned a TV and Appliance store in Belleville, IL. I heard about a scholarship program that Thrivent had available to policy owners and my oldest was graduating high school and seemed to have all the attributes needed to qualify. So, we applied for the scholarship and she got it. During that process I realized if people didn’t get the help they need selecting a new washer and dryer it isn’t the end of the world, but not getting help and guidance with their financial future can have a devastating outcome. That is when I realized I wanted to help people with their financial futures and joined Thrivent. I have been in this career and with Thrivent since 1997. I enjoy meeting with clients, building friendships and the pleasure that every day is different.


I believe the Lord has blessed me with the ability to help clients navigate through some very unusual issues and led me to this career to do just that. Doing what is right for my clients is what guides me, seeing the look on their faces when we address their concerns and put their financial plan in motion is what I consider success.

MY FAMILY – WHAT FILLS MY HEART

My wife, Susan and I have been married for 39 years and have six amazing children, five of which are married and have blessed us with 9 grandkids. I grew up in Blackjack, MO (the middle child of three) but have lived in Saint Charles County for the past 19 years.   


I enjoy home remodeling, yard work and spending time at the family farm cooking for the entire family. My mom always believed there was never a sad/bad time when preparing food for those you love, I believe that as well. For the past 40 years (except the year is was cancelled because of Covid) our family has attended the East Perry County Fair affectionately called “Best Little Fair in the Land” the third week in September.  This is a long-time tradition in our family, and we hope it will be for many years to come.

MY PASSION – MAKING A DIFFERENCE WHERE I CAN

I think it is important for all of us to give back and help where we can. That is why I help facilitate financial education events with the local Habitat for Humanity which helps prepare prospective homeowners for the financial responsibilities that come with home ownership. Helping the underserved communities get the financial education they need and deserve brings me great joy and satisfaction.   I am also passionate about helping our local food pantry. Our team organizes food drives to help collect food for our local food pantry and I am glad to be part of that effort. 

One of the benefits of being a Thrivent member* is the Thrivent Action Teams they can provide to us. Four times a year I prepare a meal for the senior group at my church (normally 40-100 attendees) by utilizing my Thrivent Action Teams. I am thankful that Thrivent provides these to our members to help them make a difference in their communities and to the causes that matter most to them.

I believe being generous means having the opportunity to share the blessings the Lord has provided to you; I am blessed and feel privileged to share those blessings.


*Member benefits, programs and activities are not guaranteed contractual benefits. You should never purchase or retain any insurance or annuity products simply to be able to participate. Participation is subject to applicable Terms and Conditions.

Cross Rivers Financial

Cross Rivers Financial

Title

Team Practice

Website
https://connect.thrivent.com/cross-rivers-financial