Ep. 102 Beyond the Tax Credit: Turning Educational Opportunity into Lasting Community Impact with John Kirtley and Kimberlee Riley (Part 2)

What if a new approach to charitable giving could help change the educational future of millions of children while empowering taxpayers to make a meaningful difference in their communities? In Part 2 of this Money to Give conversation, Rick Peck continues his discussion with John Kirtley and Kimberlee Riley about the Education Freedom Tax Credit (EFTC) and its potential to expand educational opportunities for K–12 students nationwide. John shares how scholarship programs in Florida have helped students access learning environments better suited to their individual needs and explains how the new federal tax credit could provide additional support for children facing financial barriers. From helping families bridge tuition gaps to funding tutoring, summer learning programs, transportation, and enrichment activities, the conversation highlights how thoughtful generosity can create opportunities that extend far beyond the classroom. Throughout the episode, John, Kimberlee, and Rick explore the practical steps taxpayers and philanthropic advisors can take to prepare for the program's January 2027 launch. Kimberlee outlines three priorities for advisors: understanding the legislation and identifying eligible clients, educating clients about the difference between a tax credit and a charitable deduction, and connecting them with reliable resources to make informed giving decisions. She also discusses new educational webinars, professional advisor resources, and recent Treasury guidance concerning the potential tax benefits for married couples filing jointly. The conversation emphasizes the important role financial advisors, CPAs, wealth managers, and estate planning professionals can play in helping clients incorporate this new opportunity into their broader charitable giving strategies. More importantly, Kimberlee explains how supporting education can align with philanthropic interests such as poverty alleviation, economic mobility, workforce development, and strengthening local communities. Looking ahead, John and Kimberlee share their visions for what success could look like five years after the program launches. John hopes to see educational scholarships reaching every child in need across Florida, connecting millions of potential donors with students who could benefit from additional resources and support. Kimberlee envisions the Education Freedom Tax Credit becoming a trusted part of philanthropic planning, encouraging advisors to engage a broader range of clients and helping more individuals recognize their ability to create meaningful change. Whether you are a donor, nonprofit professional, financial advisor, educator, or someone passionate about expanding opportunities for the next generation, this episode offers an inspiring look at how collaboration, thoughtful planning, and generosity can create lasting community impact. Join Rick, John, and Kimberlee as they explore how connecting people who want to give with children who need support could help transform lives for generations to come. **Contact Rick Peck:** Website: https://www.thephilanthropyguy.com Email: ThePhilanthropyGuy@gmail.com Book A Call: Rick Peck's Calendar Sign Up For Charitable Giving Newsletter: Charitable Giving Newsletter LinkedIn: Richard Peck **Contact John Kirtley and Kimberlee Riley:** Step Up Step Further (Florida): stepupstepfurther.org AFC Scholarship Fund (Nationwide): afcscholarshipfund.org Step Up For Students: stepupforstudents.org Kimberlee Riley Email: kriley@sufs.org LinkedIn: Kimberlee Riley LinkedIn: John F. Kirtley