When there’s light on a student’s path, there’s hope. Gifted Savings sparks that light. And for Athens to be the first city to do this? That story will be told, loud and proud.

David Bradley,President & CEO, Athens Area Chamber of Commerce

At CCSD, we help students see what’s possible and reach for it. By giving our seniors real investments and tools to grow them, we’re building confidence, ownership, and opportunity.

Dr. Jennifer Scott, 
Superintendent, Clarke County School District

By investing in young people, we invest in our community’s future. The Athens Area Community Foundation is proud to support this effort and even prouder it’s starting right here, at home.

Sarah McKinneyPresident & CEO, Athens Area Community Foundation

FAQ

When can I access my Gifted Savings portfolio funds?

You’ll be able to access your portfolio once you meet all of the following requirements: 

• You’ve turned 18
• You’ve completed all the Gifted Savings lessons
• You’ve submitted all three surveys (beginning, middle, and end)
• You’ve finished the school year 

Once those are done, you'll be able to request to withdraw or transfer your investments.

Who is eligible for the $1,000 Gifted Savings?

All 4th year students at Clarke Central, Cedar Shoals, and Classic City High Schools in Athens, GA.

How is the $1,000 invested?

Students receive a diversified portfolio split between stocks, bonds, bitcoin, and high-yield savings to help them learn about different asset classes.

Can students withdraw the money right away?

No — the funds are designed to grow over time. Students can access their investments when they turn 18 and complete the Gifted Savings financial literacy program during their senior year.

Can students trade or shift their allocations?

No — students can’t trade or pick their own investments. Gifted Savings provides a pre-set portfolio designed to be beginner-friendly and diversified. This approach helps reduce risk and teach the basics of long-term investing without the pressure of choosing stocks or trying to time the market. The goal is to help students build healthy investing habits, not become day traders.

How does this benefit students?

It gives them a real stake in their financial future, teaches practical investing, and helps them start building wealth at a young age.

Why Athens?

Athens has an incredible community spirit and a commitment to innovation in education. With this pilot, Athens becomes the first city in America to make every graduating senior an investor.

How can I help?

Donate above or reach out to us to explore sponsorships, partnerships, or volunteering.

Is my donation tax-deductible?

Yes! Gifted Savings is a registered 501c3 nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible.

Do any fees come out of my gift?

No — 100% of your gift goes directly to the student’s investment portfolio. Our operating costs are fully covered, thanks to a small group of patrons.

How do I give by check?

Please make checks out to Gifted Savings. Donations should be mailed to: 
Gifted Savings
916 Silver Spur Road, Suite 310
Rolling Hills Estates, CA 90274
In the memo line, please enter the name of the city you're sponsoring - in this case, "Athens."

How do I give by ACH, wire transfer, or stock?

For information on donating by ACH, wire transfer, or stock, please contact [email protected]

We’re Gifting $1,000 in Investments to Every Senior

We’re Gifting $1,000 in Investments to Every Senior

Our Partners

Donate to Invest in Students

Your support keeps Gifted Savings going through 2030 & beyond.

Why It Matters for Athens, GA

Empower Athens’ youth with real investments—and the knowledge to grow them.

Spark long-term change by giving students ownership, not just advice.

Help every senior graduate with more than a diploma—with a stake in their future.

How It Works

Invest in High School Seniors

Students Learn and Grow

Funds Unlock

When there’s light on a student’s path, there’s hope. Gifted Savings sparks that light. And for Athens to be the first city to do this? That story will be told, loud and proud.

At CCSD, we help students see what’s possible and reach for it. By giving our seniors real investments and tools to grow them, we’re building confidence, ownership, and opportunity.

By investing in young people, we invest in our community’s future. The Athens Area Community Foundation is proud to support this effort and even prouder it’s starting right here, at home.

What Students Learn

Students get access to expert-designed lessons that teach:

How investing works

How to set long-term goals

How to build healthy money habits

Real Investments.Real Learning.

We Don’t Just Teach Investing—We Gift It

Building a Long-Term Mindset

For Athens Families

Students get access to expert-designed lessons that teach:

Students:

You get $1,000 invested + lessons to grow & build your future.

Parents:

Your child builds real-world money skills at no cost to you.

Teachers:

Celebrate and support students learning life-changing skills.

Build Brighter Futures at Athens

Your donation helps create lifelong impact for our students.

FAQ