David Reedstrom

Special Needs Planner

In the midst of today’s challenging economic climate, families and caregivers need to arm themselves with meaningful and important information regarding estate planning when a family member has a disability.

Especially, if this person with a disability is receiving governmental benefits. Estate planning is a technical term for arranging what happens to a person’s property after his/her death. In other words, planning for the financial future after you have passed on.

When a loved one with a disability is involved, special provisions must be made to properly and effectively provide not only for today but for tomorrow’s needs as well. As a parent, you have probably served as your loved one’s protector, teacher, and advocate.  Your family member with a disability may very well have the same needs or more for the rest of his or her life.

In the normal course of events, you may not always be available to fill those needs.

However, by carefully assessing what those needs are, maximizing your loved one’s understanding and independence, increasing their interaction within family and community, and carefully developing a solid estate plan, you will be giving your whole family the best chance for a successful and happy life.  I can guide you through this process.

During a free no obligation presentation, you will be given a number of essential steps to assist you in Estate Planning for your family’s today and the future.

Estate Planning for People with Disabilities

3 to 5 p.m. or 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Monday, March 20. Register by calling 507-433-8994 or email: office@thearcmc.org

Rose Sale

•The Arc’s 22nd annual Rose Sale, began Tuesday, Feb. 21.

Sale dates are through March 23. Pick-up and delivery day is Tuesday, April 11. Let someone know that you care and support the work of The Arc Mower County by supporting us.

All proceeds from The Arc’s Rose Sale benefit children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities including down syndrome, cerebral palsy, autism and epilepsy. One in ten families has a member with a disability. Your participation in Arc’s rose sale provides critical funding for programs and services. Any level of support is appreciated. Here are a few suggestions:

At your work: coordinate a pre-sale rose sale. You can pre-sell roses by  emailing your co-workers and encouraging them to order. Call The Arc with a group rose order and the roses can be delivered to your office.

In your neighborhood: ask your neighbors, friends and family to order roses.

Brighten someone’s day: order roses to give to your customers or employees to show how much you appreciate them.

Volunteer: Rose Sale coordinators are needed throughout Austin and the surrounding communities to coordinate rose sales at local churches, businesses, etc.

In School: School groups can sell individual roses to support their peers that attend activities.

Jamey Helgeson is the Program Director at The Arc Mower County and can be reached at jamey@thearcmc.org or by calling 507-433-8994, Extension 102.  You can also visit our website (www.thearcmc.org) and follow us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/thearcmc).