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Brian Gawthrop

Board Member

Brian and his wife moved to Kirkland in 2010, drawn by its natural beauty, excellent public schools, and vibrant local economy. Today, they live, work, and are raising their three sons in the Houghton neighborhood—all born at Evergreen Hospital and thriving in the Lake Washington School District. Brian joined the Kirkland Community Foundation board as a meaningful and efficient way to give back to the community that means so much to his family.

With over two decades of experience as a Certified Financial Planner™ (CFP®), Brian is the founder of Five Cedars Financial, an independent Kirkland-based advisory firm specializing in retirement strategies for engineers. He previously served for nine years on the Houghton Community Council and is active in the Northlake Unitarian Universalist Church and his sons’ school PTSAs.

Brian can often be spotted rucking through Kirkland parks and neighborhoods before dawn with his F3 Kirkland crew, walking the family dog, or cheering on his sons at swim meets, concerts, and school events.

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603 4th Ave, Suite 500
Kirkland WA 98033

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Spark Something Good - with the Kirkland Community Foundation

At the Kirkland Community Foundation, we serve as conveners, catalysts, and collaborators - and we know that new ideas need fuel to catch spark. That’s why we’ve created this space to hear from you.

Whether you’re ready to move forward with a community idea that shows the love in Kirkland, are seeking a small Spark Grant to bring something to life, or feel inspired to support a future project - you’re in the right place.

Let us know how you'd like to get involved, and someone from our team will follow up soon. Together, we can spark something good.
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Community Project Letter of Interest

Kirkland Community Foundation has long served as the hub for successful projects inititated by members of our community, including the Save Our Salmon mural and the Waverly Beach Picnic Shelter. Have an idea for a project? Please complete this form as an initial step in the process, and we'll be in touch!

The story behind your idea —

Share what inspired you and what you hope to accomplish. Please include:

  • A description of your project and why it’s important
  • Who will benefit and how it will make a difference
  • Any partners, volunteers, or organizations involved
  • How this project aligns with KCF’s mission and areas of impact
  • Whether there are any time-sensitive elements
  • Let us know what type of support you’re seeking: visibility, fundraising assistance, strategic guidance, or fiscal sponsorship. If requesting fundraising or fiscal sponsorship, please include an estimated budget or cost of the project.

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    Thank you for your interest in serving on our board of directors.

    We are seeking passionate and dedicated individuals who share a strong commitment to the Kirkland community to join our board of directors. Board members play a vital role in shaping the organization's direction and ensuring its long-term success. Please complete the following form to express your interest in serving on our board. We are dedicated to the commitment that our board should reflect the diversity of our community.

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    Please reach out to us with any inquiries or comments. We'd love to hear from you.