3 Key Takeaways:

1. Personal GoFundMe vs. Direct Charity Donations Donating through GoFundMe for Peanut the Squirrel may not benefit the actual sanctuary. Instead, funds are linked to an individual, not the nonprofit organization, which raises concerns about where the money is truly going.
2. Tax Deductibility Concerns Contributions made through GoFundMe may not qualify as tax-deductible donations, even if Peanut's sanctuary has legitimate charity status. This oversight could mean donors miss out on potential tax benefits.
3. Avoid Unnecessary Fees Using platforms like GoFundMe can incur a 2.9% processing fee, reducing the amount that goes directly to the cause. Direct donations to the charity are more efficient and ensure more funds support the animals.

3 Memorable Quotes:

1. "If this isn't tax deductible, the money doesn’t have to go to the nonprofit, and it doesn't have to be reported on their 990."
2. "2.9% of your donation is going to a third-party processing fee, which means less support for the animals you care about."
3. "There are ways to give appreciated stock directly, saving up to 22.9% in fees and taxes—money that could go straight to the cause."

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*Disclaimer: This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy or the completeness of any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. This is strictly for information purposes. We recommend you speak with a professional financial advisor.

Call For Justice for Peanut the Squirrel and NYSDEC Reform

P'Nut (Peanut) GoFundMe Page: https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-peanuts-return-to-pnuts-freedom-farm

This is not an endorsement or encouragement to donate to this cause. This is purely for reference. This is NOT a paid promotion or advice to donate to this cause. We are simply bringing awareness. A.B. Ridgeway Wealth Management is not responsible for any decisions made that may result in a loss of money based on the material presented. Please use your own discretion when making financial decisions.

Episode Overview:

In this engaging episode, A.B. Ridgeway dives into a gripping story about Peanut the squirrel, a beloved internet sensation whose life took a tragic turn following government intervention. A.B. offers a unique perspective by shedding light on the financial implications behind such emotionally charged events and provides a guide on protecting your generosity from scams.

3 Key Takeaways:

1. Verify Charitable Organizations Before Donating: A.B. emphasizes the importance of checking the legitimacy of nonprofits, especially those that spring up following viral events. He walks listeners through tools like the IRS website to ensure contributions go to real, certified causes.
2. Understand Emotional Appeals: The internet often capitalizes on emotional stories to fundraise. A.B. advises staying vigilant and making informed decisions rather than acting purely out of sympathy.
3. Impact of Public Outcry on Government Actions: This case illustrates how social media can amplify controversies, making it crucial to discern facts from opinions in the court of public opinion.

3 Memorable Quotes:

1. “I don’t want you to be ripped off because your heartstrings are pulled.” — A.B. Ridgeway emphasizes the need for financial discernment when supporting viral causes.
2. “Brothers and sisters, this is not my specialty. The court of public opinion is not where I shine.” — A humorous reminder that A.B. focuses on facts and financials, not gossip or speculation.
3. “Let’s make sure we are looking at the right things before we put our money out there, right or wrong.” — A call to action for listeners to do their homework and safeguard their charitable intentions.

This episode not only highlights the emotional power of social media stories but also arms listeners with practical steps to navigate the financial side of viral narratives responsibly.

💵Sign up for a Christian Finance Consultation and create your Financial Plan Today!

https://calendly.com/abridgewaywm/consultation

📖Free E-Book- 4 Pillars to Christian Investing: https://mailchi.mp/abrwealthmanagement/christianinvesting

🏠 Visit our Website: https://www.abrwealthmanagement.com

*Disclaimer: This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy or the completeness of any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. This is strictly for information purposes. We recommend you speak with a professional financial advisor.

In this episode, A.B. Ridgeway delves into the controversy surrounding Gateway Church, where members allege that millions of dollars in tithes were misused. This lawsuit against the Texas megachurch raises questions about financial transparency, biblical stewardship, and the responsibility of church leaders. Ridgeway breaks down the court proceedings, examines the promises made to the congregation, and discusses the importance of financial accountability within faith-based organizations.

3 Key Takeaways:

1. Transparency in Tithes Is Essential for Trust Members expect their tithes to be used in alignment with biblical principles. When leaders fail to meet these expectations, it can lead to legal action and erosion of trust within the congregation.
2. Biblical Stewardship and Personal Accountability Giving back to the community or church should be done with discernment. It’s a believer’s responsibility to ensure their contributions align with their values and that funds are managed appropriately.
3. The Distinction Between Individuals and the Church Itself Ridgeway emphasizes that while church leaders may falter, they do not define the church. Congregants should hold leaders accountable without feeling they’re questioning their faith or the church’s integrity.

3 Notable Quotes:

• "People in the church are not the church. It is the accumulation of all the people together that makes up the church."
• "We can't be lazy, brothers and sisters, and just move the decimal point over...It is our responsibility to make sure the money we're giving is going to make an impact."
• "As a Christian financial advisor, I run into this all the time. People think that they can just put Jesus in front of everything and then act like everything's okay."

💵Sign up for a Christian Finance Consultation and create your Financial Plan Today!

https://calendly.com/abridgewaywm/consultation

📖Free E-Book- 4 Pillars to Christian Investing: https://mailchi.mp/abrwealthmanagement/christianinvesting

🏠 Visit our Website: https://www.abrwealthmanagement.com

*Disclaimer: This communication is not intended as an offer or solicitation to buy, hold or sell any financial instrument or investment advisory services. Any information provided has been obtained from sources considered reliable, but we do not guarantee the accuracy or the completeness of any description of securities, markets or developments mentioned. This is strictly for information purposes. We recommend you speak with a professional financial advisor.