In this episode of Absolute Trust Talk, Kirsten Howe and Jessica Colbert discuss the ongoing Los Angeles fires and offer practical advice on how to help victims without falling prey to scams. From identifying legitimate charities to safely navigating crowdfunding platforms, they outline actionable steps to ensure your generosity has a real impact. The episode also highlights essential disaster preparedness tips, including safeguarding your pets during emergencies. We're thinking of everyone and hope you all stay vigilant, give wisely, and can help make a meaningful difference in times of crisis.

Time-stamped Show Notes:

0:00 Introduction 0:53 To kick things off, we're discussing why scams skyrocket during disasters and how to protect yourself while helping support others.

2:13 Next, we highlight actionable tips for identifying trustworthy organizations, avoiding unsolicited donation requests, and recognizing red flags in emails, texts, and calls.

5:18 Press play now to hear more about the risks of platforms like GoFundMe and how to verify campaigns to ensure your donations actually help the intended cause.

8:28 Listen in as Kirsten and Jessica talk about why financial donations are often the best way to help—and how to ensure your gift is tax-deductible and goes to legitimate causes.

10:03 Kirsten shares practical tips for pet owners, including microchipping and emergency planning, along with heartwarming stories of reunifications.

12:45 Our final call to action: Stay vigilant, protect your generosity from scams, and be part of the solution.

Take the Next Step in Your Estate Planning Journey

If this episode resonated with you, we'd love to help you with your own estate planning needs in California. Schedule a complimentary discovery call with our team at Absolute Trust Counsel. During this no-obligation conversation, we'll:

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2. Answer questions about our services
3. Determine if we're the right fit to work together

Visit https://absolutetrustcounsel.com/scheduling/ or call 925-943-2740 to schedule your free discovery call today.

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