Building Financial and Academic Confidence, One Student at a Time
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we offer free financial literacy workshops and personalized one-on-one tutoring for New York students in grades 4–8. Backed by partners at Sidley Austin and the Foundations of Finance Project, we turn real-world expertise into lasting skills.
Our Impact
Real Numbers, Real Difference
Every session adds up. Here's what we've built together with our students, families, and partners.
Students helped with finance & tutoring
Hours of one-on-one support
Dedicated tutors on our team
New Program
Financial Literacy Program
As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Intellectual Gain offers free financial literacy workshops run in collaboration with organizations like L.I.F.E. and the Foundations of Finance Project, giving New York students in grades 4–8 the money skills they need, because the next generation deserves every advantage we can give them.
New York Only
This program is exclusively available to students residing in New York.
Grades 4–8
Designed for students in the critical middle school years.
Led by Professionals
Led by professionals from Sidley Austin, the Foundations of Finance Project, our founders, and volunteers.
A Look Inside
What Our Workshops Look Like
Engaging, slide-based Zoom sessions led by professionals. The first card shows our Financial Freedom Initiative sessions, followed by our L.I.F.E. and Foundations of Finance sessions.
With Financial Freedom Initiative
With L.I.F.E.
With Foundations of Finance ProjectWhat We Do
Tutoring in Action
Here's an inside look at how our tutors work with students to build confidence and understanding.
Personalized Online Tutoring
Our tutors connect with students through virtual one-on-one sessions, using screen sharing and digital tools to walk through problems step by step. Every session is tailored to the student's specific needs and learning pace, ensuring real progress in every subject from math, English, and social studies.
About Us
Who We Are
Intellectual Gain is a nonprofit helping students in grades 4 through 8 reach their full potential. We offer free one-on-one tutoring in personal finance, math, English, and Social Studies, plus financial workshops for large cohorts, because access to quality education should never depend on a family's ability to pay.
Intellectual Gain is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, duly incorporated under the laws of the State of New York. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Free Education
Every session is completely free. No hidden fees, no strings attached.
One-on-One Support
Personalized attention ensures each student gets the help they need.
Passionate Tutors
Our volunteer tutors are dedicated students who love helping others learn.
Grades 4–8
Focused on the critical middle years where strong foundations are built.
Our Partners
Meet Our Partners
We're proud to collaborate with organizations that share our mission of making financial literacy accessible to every student.
Sidley Austin L.I.F.E.
Leadership in Financial Education
- Powered by Sidley Austin, a top 10 global law firm
- Brings real-world finance and professional expertise from leading attorneys straight into the classroom
- Co-hosts live workshops and mentors our student volunteers
Foundations of Finance Project
National Financial Literacy Nonprofit
- A national financial literacy nonprofit
- Reached 1,000+ students with 30+ charters across America
- We host joint workshops and weave their curriculum into our 1-on-1 tutoring
Financial Freedom Initiative
National Financial Literacy Nonprofit
- A national financial literacy organization dedicated to empowering students
- Reached 2,500+ students nationally
- Co-hosts financial literacy workshops with our team
Our People
Meet the Founding Team
Intellectual Gain is run entirely by dedicated high schoolers from Brooklyn who genuinely care about making a difference.
Brian Kushner
Executive Director & Founding member
Brian is a rising high school senior who excels across a rigorous course load of AP and honors classes. He has a strong love for finance and enjoys helping younger students build that same understanding. He directs the organization’s operations and strategic initiatives, overseeing its programs, partnerships, and continued expansion. Outside of academics, he is an accomplished concert pianist who has performed several times at Carnegie Hall, and he loves to play soccer and chess. He is driven by a genuine desire to give back to his community.
Jonathan Rachamim
Administrative Director & Founding member
Jonathan brings strong organizational skills and a genuine passion for helping younger students build confidence in the classroom. He has taken rigorous AP courses, showing that when things get tough he will get through it no matter what. His personal interests include competing on Mock Trial and a deep enthusiasm for debate, making him an articulate, thoughtful communicator who adapts to each student he mentors.
Daniel Barbakov
Financial Director & Founding member
Daniel is a rising high school senior known for his responsibility and commitment to helping others. He maintains high averages in advanced classes and is deeply intrigued by finance and budgeting, even taking elective classes in school that reflect that interest. He connects with students by adapting to their individual learning styles and making them feel comfortable. He is also a star athlete in soccer coaching young kids to do their best.
Ethan & Eli
Founding members
Ethan Zheleznak
A rising high school senior who specializes in working with students in grades 4 and 5. Outside of school, he has a strong passion for videography and video editing.
Eli Jakubowitz
A rising high school senior with a strong background in math, currently in college-level precalculus. Beyond academics, he is his school's Tennis captain.
Our People
High Level Team Members
Other dedicated team members other than our wide array of volunteer tutors who keep Intellectual Gain growing and reaching more students every day.
Maya Rachamim
Social Media Manager
Maya manages our social media presence, sharing our mission, student wins, and workshop highlights to grow our community and keep families informed and engaged.
Mark Sorochkin
Outreach Manager
Mark helps with outreach, connecting with families, schools, and community partners so more students can find our workshops and tutoring.
Dipam Das
Academic Support Specialist
Supports other tutors when needed and helps ensure students receive appropriate academic support. Provides 1-on-1 tutoring while helping students identify areas for improvement and track their progress.
Testimonials
What Parents Are Saying
Don't just take our word for it, hear from the families whose lives have been changed.
"Intellectual Gain has been a game-changer for my daughter. She was struggling with math and losing confidence, but after just a few sessions, she started bringing home better grades and actually enjoys doing her homework now!"
Sarah M.
Parent of 6th Grader
"I can't say enough good things about this program. The tutor was patient, kind, and really took the time to understand my son's learning style. The fact that it's completely free is incredible. Every family should know about this."
David L.
Parent of 5th Grader
"My son was falling behind in reading and I couldn't afford a private tutor. Intellectual Gain stepped in and gave him the one-on-one attention he needed. He's now reading at grade level and his teacher noticed the improvement right away."
Maria G.
Parent of 4th Grader
"The online format is so convenient, no driving across town for tutoring sessions. My daughter logs in from home and gets focused, quality help. She's gone from a C in science to an A-. We're so grateful!"
James T.
Parent of 7th Grader
"What sets Intellectual Gain apart is how much the tutors genuinely care. They don't just teach, they mentor. My son looks forward to his sessions every week and his confidence has skyrocketed."
Angela R.
Parent of 8th Grader
"We were hesitant about online tutoring at first, but the results speak for themselves. My daughter's writing has improved tremendously and she's now excited about learning. This organization is doing amazing work."
Kevin P.
Parent of 5th Grader
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about Intellectual Gain.
Follow Us
Stay Connected
Follow Intellectual Gain on social media for workshop updates, student wins, and a behind-the-scenes look at our programs.
Instagram
@intellectualgaininc
TikTok
@intellectualgain