Investing in Stability
People are turning Matched Savings Accounts into tangible, life-changing achievements. For every dollar saved, a matching investment is added — supporting goals like buying a home, paying for education, or starting a business.
The Matched Investment Savings Account (MISA) opportunity is a part of the Washington State Department of Commerce’s Community Reinvestment initiative. As part of a broader network of services that includes career navigation, skills training, and financial coaching, MISA helps Washington residents build real and lasting stability. The impact can be seen in the everyday successes of people across North Central Washington — each saving, striving, and achieving, making progress towards self-sufficiency.
Starting a Business
When Nayeli Cabrera came to SkillSource, she was focused on building a career and a steady life for herself and her young son. Through Matched Savings she earned during her skills training, she paid off her car loan and is now prepared to open her own in-home daycare business.
Last month, Nayeli joined SkillSource staff at the Wenatchee center to share her experience during a visit from Representative Brian Burnett. Nayeli described, through tears, how — because of the training she received and the savings and matched investment funds — she is the first in her family to buy a new car, pay it off, and start a business. And now she has her sights set on continuing her education in early childhood development, laying the groundwork for a strong, independent future for herself and her family.
Buying a Home
Richy Bryant first heard about the Matched Investment Savings opportunity during an orientation at Wenatchee Valley College where he received a training scholarship through Economic Security for All (EcSA). At the time, homeownership felt out of reach.
“I was nowhere near being eligible to buy a home,” he said. “The idea of financial freedom seemed like something I’d only ever hope for.”
Guided by staff at SkillSource and Wenatchee Valley College, Richy stuck with it and built momentum. “Each step gave me more confidence,” he said. “Their support made all the difference when the process felt overwhelming.”
When his savings were matched, everything shifted. “The matched savings made the impossible possible,” Richy said. “With the funds, I was able to purchase a home. That achievement has changed my daily life entirely — giving me stability, security, and the opportunity to build a future for myself and my family.”
He’s now looking ahead with confidence. “If MISAs hadn’t been available, I truly believe I would still be struggling to find stability,” he said. “This program changed the trajectory of my life.”
Reaching New Opportunities
Libby Sykes first connected with SkillSource through her service as an AmeriCorps member supporting the youth in project-based learning and other activities. Libby was working toward a goal of purchasing a car. She was eligible for MISA and because of the matched savings, she reached her goal and used her savings and matching funds to purchase a car — a reliable Subaru that gave her the freedom to pursue new opportunities. “The MISA had a significant impact. I’m so grateful for the AmeriCorps experience, and for SkillSource, and to now have a car of my own!”
That investment carried her to her next chapter: a teaching position in South Dakota. Her car isn’t just transportation — it’s the bridge between where she’s been and where she’s going.
Focusing on Education
Jovanna met Heidi from SkillSource at nursing school orientation. With guidance from Heidi and SkillSource Career Trainer, Laura, Jovanna learned she was eligible for MISA, and set a goal to reduce her financial stress while completing her degree.
“The matched savings plan gave me the peace of mind I needed to fully focus on my education,” she said.
Jovanna used her matched savings to pay off her car and part of her student loans, lifting a major financial weight. “I will always be grateful for the opportunity and freedom this program gave me,” she said. “Programs like these make it possible for those of us who are going to school to serve our community.”
Return on Investment
This is just a small sample of stories throughout North Central Washington where SkillSource has helped to connect dozens of eligible individuals with the training and support to meet their career goals and reach financial stability. Every week, more MISA participants achieve their savings goals, putting their investments to impactful use to build strong, stable futures.
