When families think about investing in the next generation, they often look for practical ways to build long-term security for their children and grandchildren.
At the Kirkland Community Foundation, we believe thoughtful planning today can create meaningful opportunities for tomorrow—whether through charitable giving, family financial planning, or tools designed to help young people start building assets early.
A new federal policy introducing child investment accounts—commonly referred to in media as “Trump Accounts”—has sparked interest among families exploring new ways to invest in the next generation.
While the name may draw attention, what matters most is the opportunity behind it.
These accounts are designed to help children begin saving and investing from a young age.
In simple terms, they function as tax-deferred investment accounts for minors, allowing contributions to grow over time and be accessed later in life. Their structure emphasizes long-term growth, low fees, and broad market exposure—making them intentionally simple and accessible for many families.
Parents, grandparents, and in some cases employers may contribute annually. A limited federal pilot program may also provide an initial contribution for eligible children, creating an early foundation for future growth.
What makes this approach compelling is not necessarily the size of the contribution—it’s the power of time.
When investments begin early and are allowed to grow steadily, even modest contributions can become meaningful resources over the course of a lifetime.
For families, these accounts may offer opportunities to:
These are the same principles that help strong communities thrive.
Like any financial strategy, child investment accounts are not a one-size-fits-all solution.
They are best viewed as one option among many—alongside education savings plans, donor-advised funds, charitable giving strategies, and other wealth-planning tools families may already use.
For many households, the opportunity is not about choosing one path, but about thoughtfully combining tools to reflect family values, financial goals, and long-term priorities.
As with any planning decision, families should consult with a trusted financial or tax advisor to determine what approach best fits their unique circumstances.
At its core, this conversation is about more than a single account type.
It is about how we invest in the future—of our children, our families, and our community.
At the Kirkland Community Foundation, we see every day how early investments—financial, relational, and philanthropic—create ripple effects that last for generations.
If you are thinking about how to support your children or grandchildren, or how to align your financial planning with your values, we are always here as a resource and community partner—working alongside you and your advisors to help connect your intentions with meaningful local impact.
Because building a strong, vibrant, and inclusive community starts with how we invest in the people who will shape it.
Give Local. Do good. Right now.
Article contributed by
Joel S. Petersen, Managing Partner
Sound Legacy Wealth Advisors, LLC
Founded in 2014, the Kirkland Community Foundation is a local community foundation supporting nonprofits across Kirkland and the Eastside. We connect donors, nonprofits, and community priorities through grants, partnerships, and local giving that strengthen our parks, people, and shared future. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 46‑4931717), we invest in thriving nonprofits, visible community impact, and trusted local leadership.
KCF is a 501(c)(3) non-profit.
EIN 46-4931717
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