I’m thrilled to sit down with Priya Jaiswal, a distinguished expert in banking, business, and finance, whose deep knowledge of market analysis, portfolio management, and international business trends offers invaluable insights into innovative financial programs. Today, we’re diving into the Living Legacies Investment Program, a transformative initiative in Colorado aimed at empowering aging adults through investment opportunities and financial education. Our conversation explores the program’s mission, its unique offerings, the collaborative efforts behind it, and its vision for building long-term wealth and resilience for participants and future generations.
Can you walk us through the core mission of the Living Legacies Investment Program and why it’s so important for aging adults in Colorado?
Absolutely. The Living Legacies Investment Program is designed to empower aging adults in Colorado by giving them the tools and resources to start investing and build financial stability. The core mission is to foster lasting wealth—not just for today, but for future generations. Many older adults face unique financial challenges, like limited retirement savings or the need to stretch fixed incomes, and this program addresses those by providing a starting point with seed capital and education. It’s about creating a legacy of financial security in a state where aging in place with dignity is a growing concern.
How did the idea for this program come about, and what sparked this focus on older Coloradans?
The idea emerged from a shared vision among the partners to tackle economic hardship faced by older adults, especially in underserved communities. Colorado has a growing aging population, and many struggle with the affordability of aging in place. The collaboration saw an opportunity to blend fintech innovation with community-focused support to address these gaps. It’s really about recognizing that financial empowerment doesn’t have an age limit and ensuring older adults have access to opportunities that are often geared toward younger generations.
What are some of the key benefits participants receive through this program, particularly with the seed capital?
Participants get a significant head start with $1,000 in seed capital to kick off their investing journey. This isn’t just a handout—it’s an entry point to engage with the market, build confidence, and see real growth potential. Beyond that, the program offers quarterly financial wellness workshops and access to an in-app Learning Center, which provides tailored education to help them make informed decisions. It’s a holistic approach, combining actual funds with the knowledge to manage and grow them.
Can you elaborate on the financial education component and how it’s tailored to the needs of aging adults?
Certainly. The financial education component is critical because investing can feel intimidating, especially if you’re starting later in life. The quarterly workshops cover practical topics like budgeting, understanding risk, and planning for legacy wealth. The in-app Learning Center offers bite-sized, accessible content that participants can explore at their own pace, addressing specific concerns like retirement planning or protecting savings. It’s all designed to meet them where they are, with no assumptions about prior knowledge.
Who is eligible to join this program, and what does the application process look like?
The program targets a specific group—U.S. residents who are at least 55 years old by a set date, live in Colorado, and are engaged with the community partner involved. It’s not open to just anyone; there’s a focus on those already connected to supportive networks to ensure they have a foundation of trust and guidance. The application process is straightforward but time-sensitive, with a clear deadline in early October 2025. Interested folks can apply online through a provided link, and it’s really about ensuring the right fit for the program’s goals.
What unique financial challenges do older adults face that this initiative specifically aims to address?
Older adults often deal with fixed incomes, rising healthcare costs, and sometimes a lack of exposure to modern investment tools. Many haven’t had the chance to build wealth over time due to systemic barriers or life circumstances, especially in low-income or marginalized communities. This initiative steps in by lowering the entry barrier to investing and providing education to navigate these challenges, helping them secure their future and even support their families down the line.
How does the collaboration between the partners enhance the program’s impact?
The partnership is a powerhouse because each brings something unique to the table. The fintech side offers a cutting-edge platform that simplifies investing with automated tools and educational resources. The community-focused partner provides on-the-ground support, personalized coaching, and a savings app to reinforce good habits. Meanwhile, the funding and vision from the foundation ensure the program aligns with broader goals of valuing aging and economic equity. Together, they create a wraparound support system that’s rare in financial programs.
What does building lasting wealth mean in the context of this program, especially for future generations?
Building lasting wealth here means creating a financial cushion that doesn’t just benefit the participant but can be passed down to their children or grandchildren. It’s about shifting from a mindset of day-to-day survival to one of legacy—whether that’s through small investments that grow over time or the knowledge of money management that families can inherit. The program encourages participants to think beyond their own needs and envision how their financial decisions can impact their loved ones long-term.
What kind of impact are you hoping to see from this initiative over the next couple of years?
Over the next two years, the goal is to reach up to 50 aging adults, providing each with the tools to start their investment journey. More than just numbers, we hope to see tangible changes in their financial confidence and stability—maybe someone grows their initial investment enough to cover an emergency expense or starts a small fund for a grandchild. The real impact will be in the stories of empowerment and the ripple effect on families and communities as these participants become advocates for financial literacy.
Do you have any advice for our readers who might be inspired to take control of their financial future, regardless of age?
My biggest piece of advice is to start where you are, no matter your age or situation. Financial empowerment begins with small steps—whether it’s saving a little each month, learning about investing through free online resources, or seeking out community programs like this one. Don’t underestimate the power of starting small; compound growth and knowledge build over time. And most importantly, don’t be afraid to ask for help—there are resources and people out there ready to support you on this journey.
