Cool- Firstly, I would suggest Mat to register a Mat & kat, LLC or some sort of family partnership and collect the money under the company's name. And operate transactions as partner's distribution or partner's contribution. Stock market is real volatile right now. It is not a very good time to invest on high risk securities. Utilities and drugs corporations will stay strong. Fed might end interest rate at 5.50. Index funds, 10 or 5 year treasury bonds are the way to go. Start kids education trust funds and things like that. If I were Mat I would stick with what I know. In stead of investing money on some un familiar business/ investment.. I would probably expand the cabinet or some furniture business. I am not an expert though. keep us posted.. thanks