Faith, Family and Generosity
Imagine working in a profession you love and being able to give back to the community at the same time. It is a rare opportunity and one that financial advisor Merrillee Bradshaw said she is blessed to be able to do.
Bradshaw is an advisor for Thrivent Financial. Unlike most financial companies, Thrivent is a Christian based company whose principles are founded on the belief that money is a tool one uses to strengthen one’s family, church and community.
“Thrivent Financial is member-owned, and therefore we do not pay corporate taxes on the Fraternal side of our business,” explained Bradshaw. “We instead take the money that would have been spent on those taxes and put it in the hands of our members, and they individually choose a nonprofit from a list of thousands to gift it to.” Through this, Thrivent members have provided about half of the operating expenses for Habitat for Humanity each year.
Through Thrivent Financial, Bradshaw has been able to devote some of her time and resources to make a difference in the live of others. She volunteers with Esther’s Place in Everett, a day shelter for homeless women and children. Bradshaw adds that she, and other members, can apply for two $250 grants each year to use in their community to do either a fundraiser or a service project. These are called Action Teams. It is a value that echoes her own passion of giving to others. “Our motto is live generously.”
In her work with people of all age groups and economic status, Bradshaw guides her clients through the path to financial security. “We are unique in that we believe in protecting the family first,” said Bradshaw. She consults with her clients to make sure that before investing any of their funds, the family is set up for the unexpected. That means having ample savings for emergency situations, life insurance and disability coverage, as well as paying off consumer debt. “You need to have those protection pieces in place” said Bradshaw.
One of the most common issues she sees among people is the lack of planning and the non-existence of a budget. “Whether you make $20,000 or $250,000 annually, people need to be smart about their money,” said Bradshaw.
Bradshaw and Thrivent have certain financial principles that they incorporate into their personal and professional lives. Those principles are:
• Spend less than you make
• Be wise with debt
• Protect yourself against setbacks
• Have a short and long-term plan
• Give back
With a belief that faith and finances go hand in hand, Bradshaw and those at Thrivent Financial assist people through all stages of their lives – whether it is preparing to start a new life together as a young couple, retirement planning or leaving a legacy, Thrivent can help.
When you blend faith, finances and generosity, the outcome is sure to be one that is fulfilling. At Thrivent the belief is that as Christians, we are all called to be good stewards of the gifts God has bestowed upon us. So whether you are starting your first job or nearing retirement, the products, tools and financial guidance provided by Bradshaw will be sure to make you confident in your finances.
After all, it’s not just about making more money; it’s about doing more for others.
Merrillee Bradshaw, Financial Associate
Northwest Region, Thrivent Financial®
15117 Main St Ste 206
Mill Creek, WA 98012-9035
206.949.2204
