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Residents investing in higher education
For most parents sending your kids to college is just as important as watching their first steps or seeing them get married.
The Nebraska Educational Savings Trust, or Nest fund, is one way the state hopes to help parents send their kids into the real world. The state held its 2nd Annual Nest Fest in Grand Island Saturday, an event to promote the college savings fund. Donkey rides, a petting zoo and games, just some of the fun activities for kids at Platte Valley State Bank today. But, the real purpose isn't to focus on the present, but what the future holds instead. "I don't know what they plan on growing up to be, and I just have to be prepared I guess," said Brenda Larraga. Brenda Larraga is a mother of four. She says she hadn't thought about saving for her kids' college funds until hearing about NestFest. "College is getting very expensive," said Don Stenberg, Nebraska State Treasurer. "I think we've all read about the problems of kids getting out of college now with huge college debts." The state sponsors Nest fest in cities all across Nebraska to make sure that Nebraska's kids are ready to soar into a bright future. "It's a tax advantage way to save for college for your kids and grandkids and nieces and nephews," Stenberg said. That's just what Tinamarie Probyn did. She and her husband invested in Nest back in the early 2000's when the program first started. "We wanted to do something that would be meaningful," Probyn said. The money can be used at almost any college in the U.S. None of her grandchildren have ever lived in the state, nor do they attend college here. She says the Nest fund gives her a sense of security. "So you write the check to the school and you know, you're assured that the money is being used for higher education," Probyn said. "That is really so important." Over 53,000 Nebraska families invest in the college savings plan. It's something many parents hope will help lead their kids into a successful future. Stenberg says the current state of the economy is preventing some people from investing right now. But, the sooner you can invest, the more time your money has to earn interest. |
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