WHY IS FUTURE PLANNING NECESSARY?
Parents of children with special needs are their natural guardians until the child’s 18th birthday. At age 18, the child is now an adult by law. It then becomes necessary for parents to qualify as legal guardians to exercise parental supervision and provide guidance.
All families need to make legal and financial plans for the future. Parents of people with developmental disabilities must plan even more carefully because of the person’s unique needs. The planning must begin sooner, last longer, and take more details into consideration.
Parents also need to consider how their son or daughter’s needs will be met if they are not around or make decisions on their behalf.
WE CAN HELP!
The Arc, Oneida-Lewis Chapter has a Guardianship Coordinator assisting families with understanding their available options when considering the future of their family member.
The time needed to assist each family member and guide them through the process of looking ahead and safeguarding the future of their loved one will differ.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
The Future Planning services of The Arc are not funded and rely on donations from the families who receive assistance. However, no one is denied these services because of the inability to pay. Grants are occasionally received to pay for specific populations.
The Arc’s Guardianship Program is available to provide information and guidance on guardianship procedures to professionals and families.
For more information on Guardianship, please see the information below or contact:
Francesca Bevivino
Guardianship Coordinator
Francesca.Bevivino@thearcolc.org
315-927-0088