A new initiative is giving Tacoma Public Schools students a powerful opportunity to invest in their futures. The Futures 253 program is a partnership between the Tacoma Education Dream Fund (TEDF), Local Philanthropy, and Tacoma Public Schools that brings together local financial institutions and community partners to help students open and grow Roth IRA investment accounts while building critical financial literacy skills.
Through partnerships with TEDF’s Beverly Haughton IRA Partnership Fund, TAPCO Credit Union, Black Collective, and Wells Fargo Bank, this program helps students begin building long-term financial security at an early age. The program is also endorsed by the Black Collective, Asia Pacific Cultural Center (APCC), and Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce. Participating students contribute $150 of earned income into a Roth IRA established in their name. After meeting program requirements, students receive a $100 incentive grant from the Tacoma Education Dream Fund to reinforce their investment behavior, an early step toward long-term financial security.
In addition to opening an account, students complete an investing basics course and submit a reflection essay, gaining firsthand experience in saving, investing, and understanding financial risk.
“This program represents what’s possible when community partners come together with a shared commitment to students,” said Sue Elkin, Director of the Tacoma Education Dream Fund. “We’re thrilled to collaborate with financial institutions to expand access to financial literacy and real-world investing experiences. Building these skills early helps students make informed decisions that can positively impact their futures.”
Futures 253 is designed to help students understand the long-term benefits of investing early, including the power of compound growth, and to begin building personal capital that can support future goals such as education, homeownership, or entrepreneurship.
“Financial education is essential, but giving students the opportunity to take meaningful, real-world action is what makes this program so impactful,” said Korey Strozier, School Board President. “Futures 253 empowers students to take those first steps toward financial independence with the support of their schools and community.”
The program also reflects the vision of community leaders who believe in expanding access to wealth-building opportunities for young people.
“My mother, Beverly always believed in the value of hard work, self-sufficiency, and long-term investing,” said Kelly Haughton. “By creating access to early investment opportunities, we are opening doors for students to build financial security, not just for themselves, but for future generations.”
Students may participate once per school year and can select from one of the program’s financial partners to open their account. Grants from the Tacoma Education Dream Fund are awarded after all program requirements are successfully completed.
“Futures 253 instills the values of work, self-sufficiency, and smart financial decision-making,” said Mary Knell, Vice Chair for Wells Fargo Commercial Banking. “These Tacoma students are earning, investing, and learning through real accounts and real stakes. Having started my own career as a part-time teller in high school, I’ve seen firsthand how early confidence and habits lay the foundation for lifelong wealth-building. Wells Fargo is proud to support to a program that helps students build lasting financial skills.”
Futures 253 is part of Tacoma Public Schools’ broader commitment to preparing students for life beyond graduation by equipping them with the knowledge, skill and experiences needed for long-term success and economic wealth building.
TEDF is working to expand the number of financial partners to the program, ensuring broad access and long-term stability for the program. Organizations interested in joining or learning more can visit Futures 253 – Dream Fund. For students or families interested in participating visit, Futures 253 – Tacoma Public Schools.
Launch of Futures 253 Program helps students start investing now
/in NewsA new initiative is giving Tacoma Public Schools students a powerful opportunity to invest in their futures. The Futures 253 program is a partnership between the Tacoma Education Dream Fund (TEDF), Local Philanthropy, and Tacoma Public Schools that brings together local financial institutions and community partners to help students open and grow Roth IRA investment accounts while building critical financial literacy skills.
Through partnerships with TEDF’s Beverly Haughton IRA Partnership Fund, TAPCO Credit Union, Black Collective, and Wells Fargo Bank, this program helps students begin building long-term financial security at an early age. The program is also endorsed by the Black Collective, Asia Pacific Cultural Center (APCC), and Tacoma-Pierce County Chamber of Commerce. Participating students contribute $150 of earned income into a Roth IRA established in their name. After meeting program requirements, students receive a $100 incentive grant from the Tacoma Education Dream Fund to reinforce their investment behavior, an early step toward long-term financial security.
In addition to opening an account, students complete an investing basics course and submit a reflection essay, gaining firsthand experience in saving, investing, and understanding financial risk.
“This program represents what’s possible when community partners come together with a shared commitment to students,” said Sue Elkin, Director of the Tacoma Education Dream Fund. “We’re thrilled to collaborate with financial institutions to expand access to financial literacy and real-world investing experiences. Building these skills early helps students make informed decisions that can positively impact their futures.”
Futures 253 is designed to help students understand the long-term benefits of investing early, including the power of compound growth, and to begin building personal capital that can support future goals such as education, homeownership, or entrepreneurship.
“Financial education is essential, but giving students the opportunity to take meaningful, real-world action is what makes this program so impactful,” said Korey Strozier, School Board President. “Futures 253 empowers students to take those first steps toward financial independence with the support of their schools and community.”
The program also reflects the vision of community leaders who believe in expanding access to wealth-building opportunities for young people.
“My mother, Beverly always believed in the value of hard work, self-sufficiency, and long-term investing,” said Kelly Haughton. “By creating access to early investment opportunities, we are opening doors for students to build financial security, not just for themselves, but for future generations.”
Students may participate once per school year and can select from one of the program’s financial partners to open their account. Grants from the Tacoma Education Dream Fund are awarded after all program requirements are successfully completed.
“Futures 253 instills the values of work, self-sufficiency, and smart financial decision-making,” said Mary Knell, Vice Chair for Wells Fargo Commercial Banking. “These Tacoma students are earning, investing, and learning through real accounts and real stakes. Having started my own career as a part-time teller in high school, I’ve seen firsthand how early confidence and habits lay the foundation for lifelong wealth-building. Wells Fargo is proud to support to a program that helps students build lasting financial skills.”
Futures 253 is part of Tacoma Public Schools’ broader commitment to preparing students for life beyond graduation by equipping them with the knowledge, skill and experiences needed for long-term success and economic wealth building.
TEDF is working to expand the number of financial partners to the program, ensuring broad access and long-term stability for the program. Organizations interested in joining or learning more can visit Futures 253 – Dream Fund. For students or families interested in participating visit, Futures 253 – Tacoma Public Schools.
Welcome New Board Members: Jeannie Nist and Eric Cederstrand
/in NewsWelcome!
The Tacoma Educational Dream Fund is excited to announce the addition of two exceptional leaders to our Board of Directors: Jeannie Nist and Eric Cederstrand. Their diverse expertise, community engagement, and shared dedication to Tacoma’s students will strengthen our mission to invest in opportunities that help every child thrive.
Jeannie Nist has built her career around fostering student success. With extensive experience in education, program development, and nonprofit service, Jeannie understands the transformative impact that access to resources and mentorship can have on young people. She has a long history of championing equitable opportunities and believes in the power of community collaboration to inspire lifelong learning. Her vision and compassion align perfectly with the Dream Fund’s mission.
Eric Cederstrand is the President of Commencement Bay Development and a respected business leader in the South Sound. With decades of experience in commercial real estate, strategic partnerships, and community investment, Eric brings a results-driven approach to building stronger futures. He is committed to ensuring Tacoma’s students have the support and opportunities they need to achieve their goals, recognizing that education is the foundation of a vibrant, thriving city.
We are honored to welcome Jeannie and Eric to the Tacoma Educational Dream Fund family. Their leadership, passion, and commitment to our community will help guide our efforts as we continue to support thriving generations in Tacoma.
Learn more about our Board: About Us
Unveiling The Dream, A Kick-Off Fundraising Event!
/in NewsJoin us for Unveiling the Dream, the official launch of the Tacoma Education Dream Fund! This event will showcase our mission to expand educational opportunities and support programs that empower students in our community. Come connect with local leaders, learn about our vision, and be part of a movement that turns dreams into reality.
Supporting the Tacoma Education Dream Fund means investing in the brilliance, resilience, and creativity of Tacoma students. Together, we can create a future where every child is empowered to dream boldly, achieve their goals, and inspire others. When we invest in our students, we’re investing in a brighter, more inclusive future for our community. Join us in making sure every student has the resources, support and opportunity to thrive.
New CEO Selected for Dream Fund
/in NewsNew philanthropic organization to support Tacoma students
Tacoma’s students have a new level of support with the newly created Tacoma Education Dream Fund.
This new philanthropic organization is an independent 501c3 designed to serve Tacoma Public Schools students. The Dream Fund will engage with new donors, existing supporters, and national and community organizations to invest financially in opportunities for students.
Those opportunities include:
The Dream Fund board proudly selected Sue Elkin as its inaugural CEO, recognizing her dynamic leadership and passion for empowering communities. With an impressive track record, Sue brings invaluable expertise from her role as executive director at Homeownership Center Northwest (HCNW), where she led transformative housing initiatives. Sue’s impact stretches across multiple sectors—she has served as a consultant and advisor for impactful nonprofits like Communities in Schools, the Metropolitan Development Council, RAIN Incubator, TEALSK12, and Korum for Kids. Adding to her legacy, Sue dedicated 14 years to driving strategic partnerships as the senior director at Junior Achievement of Washington, leaving a lasting mark on youth empowerment and education. Her vision and energy will fuel the Dream Fund’s mission to unlock opportunities for all.
Dream Fund Board
The Dream Fund Board of Directors is chaired by Shon Sylvia, Executive Director of Metro Parks Tacoma. He is joined by:
Want more information?
The Dream Fund office will be located in the Tacoma Public School Central Administration Building at 601 South 8th St., Tacoma, WA 98405. The office can be reached at (253) 571-1089 and info@tacomaeducationdreamfund.org. Read more About Us and follow our journey on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Tacoma Education Dream Fund Launches!
/in NewsEmpowering Tacoma’s youth for success just got easier! We’re thrilled to announce the official launch of the Tacoma Educational Dream Fund, a community-driven initiative dedicated to investing in the future of Tacoma’s students.
The Dream Fund
The Dream Fund bridges the gap between basic education and enriching opportunities, providing Pre-K through 12th graders with resources that ignite their passions and fuel their potential. From after-school programs to individual student and educator grants, the Dream Fund ensures every child has the tools they need to thrive.
Building on the success of programs like Beyond the Bell and Club B, the Dream Fund aims to secure permanent funding for these vital initiatives. These programs provide a safe space for students to explore their interests, fostering well-rounded individuals prepared for future challenges.
Going Beyond
The Tacoma Dream Fund goes beyond replicating existing programs. It empowers educators and students to dream big! Individual grant opportunities will support innovative ideas and personalized learning experiences, ensuring every student has the chance to chase their unique dreams.
Join us in shaping the future of Tacoma’s education system! Visit our website or contact us today to learn how you can contribute to the Tacoma Educational Dream Fund. Together, let’s invest in Tacoma’s students and build a thriving future for generations to come!
Learn more: About Us