Transition Planning with Protected Tomorrows

Quick Overview

Mary Anne Ehlert, speaking remotely from Chicago, shared insights on transition planning for families with special needs members. Drawing from her 37 years of professional experience and personal life with a sister who had cerebral palsy, she emphasised the importance of planning for the future. Ehlert discussed the necessity of financial planning, including creating a net worth statement and cash flow analysis, and understanding Social Security benefits. She highlighted the importance of setting up a special needs trust to ensure financial security without jeopardising government benefits. Ehlert also stressed the need for legal guardianship once a child with disabilities turns 18, and the importance of building a support team for the future. She encouraged families to document routines and preferences to maintain stability for their loved ones. Ehlert concluded by offering resources and support through her organisation, Protected Tomorrows, to assist families in navigating these complex processes.

Mary Anne Ehlert, a seasoned professional with 37 years of experience, shared her insights on transition planning for families with special needs at the 2024 ASF Family Conference. Speaking remotely from Chicago, Ehlert drew from her personal experiences growing up with a sister with cerebral palsy and her professional journey to offer guidance on planning for the future of family members with disabilities.

Personal Journey and Professional Insights

Ehlert’s journey began at a young age when her sister Marcia was diagnosed with cerebral palsy. As the oldest girl in a family of six, Ehlert was designated as a future caregiver for her sister. This early responsibility shaped her understanding of caregiving and the importance of fostering independence, even in the face of challenges. Her sister’s desire for a “normal” life and her acceptance of mistakes as learning opportunities taught Ehlert valuable lessons about growth and resilience.

The Mission of Protected Tomorrows

Protected Tomorrows, the organisation Ehlert represents, is dedicated to ensuring that individuals with special needs are safe and happy. Ehlert emphasised the complexity of life for families with special needs, highlighting the importance of planning for the future while balancing the immediate needs of the family. She stressed the significance of taking a candid look at what parents want for their child’s future and identifying their biggest fears.

Financial and Legal Planning

Ehlert provided detailed advice on financial and legal planning, underscoring the necessity of creating a network statement and a cash flow plan. She highlighted the importance of understanding Social Security benefits, pensions, and health insurance laws, particularly for families with children who have disabilities. Ehlert also discussed the critical role of special needs trusts in safeguarding a child’s financial future without jeopardising their eligibility for government benefits.

Building a Support Network

A key aspect of Ehlert’s talk was the importance of building a support network or “dream team” to ensure continuity of care and support for individuals with disabilities. She encouraged families to document routines, medical information, and social preferences to aid future caregivers. Ehlert also addressed the legal implications of guardianship and the need for parents to plan for their child’s transition to adulthood.

Navigating Complex Systems

Ehlert acknowledged the complexity of navigating government benefits and legal systems, urging families to seek specialised legal and financial advice. She highlighted the importance of staying informed about changes in laws and regulations that could impact planning for individuals with disabilities.

Conclusion

Mary Anne Ehlert’s session at the ASF Family Conference provided a comprehensive overview of transition planning for families with special needs. Her personal anecdotes and professional expertise offered valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of planning for the future. Ehlert’s emphasis on the importance of financial and legal planning, building a support network, and understanding government benefits underscored the multifaceted nature of caregiving and the need for proactive planning. Families were encouraged to reach out to Protected Tomorrows for further guidance and support in their planning journey.