Referral Services (OPWDD, OMH, DOH)
Resource and Referral Services is the central point of information to assist individuals in finding services that match their needs, wants, hopes, and dreams.
Mission, values, and the work supporting people of all abilities in their communities every day.
A snapshot of the year’s milestones, measurable outcomes, and organization-wide impact.
The people guiding strategy, operations, and the quality of support across the organization.
Board stewardship, oversight, and accountability help guide the organization’s long-term direction.
The priorities and long-term goals guiding growth, innovation, and organizational direction.
Policies, reporting, and safeguards that support accountability, transparency, and ethical practice.
Corporate Sponsors
Business partners whose support strengthens programs, expands opportunities, and increases community impact.
Become a Corporate SponsorFREE Network
Organizations across the network are working together to broaden services, share resources, and strengthen support.
Learn MoreCommunity Partners
Local partnerships that expand access, build stronger community connections, and deepen our shared impact.
See our Partners
There are so many ways to show up. Support inclusion, raise voices, and stay connected to the work. Find the opportunity that fits you and make it yours.
Every gift makes a difference. Find the giving option that feels right for you and the people we serve. No matter the size, your support helps someone thrive.
Leave a legacy that reflects what you believe in and ensures our work lives on for generations. It's one of the most meaningful ways to make a lasting difference.
Roll up your sleeves. Hands-on projects and service days that strengthen the spaces we all share. Your time and energy make a direct, visible difference in people's lives.
Planning Today, Protecting Tomorrow: How a Will Can Safeguard Your Child’s Future
August 25, 2026 | News
MAKING A WILL CAN PROTECT YOUR CHILD WITH SPECIAL NEEDS
Release Date: August 2026
Written by: Kim N. Christian, Esq. (Partner, Russo Law Group, P.C.)
August signifies National Make-a-Will Month. For the families who care for children with special needs, estate planning is crucial.
Parents of a child with a disability face numerous challenges and concerns. Making a will and other important estate planning documents are among the steps you can take to help alleviate these concerns. A well-drafted estate plan can help ensure that your loved one with special needs has financial protection and continued support.
Don’t Delay Making a Will
Many people delay making a will until they experience a health diagnosis or concern. However, you may be putting your loved one with special needs at great risk if you delay making a will.
Avoid waiting until your health, or the health of your loved one with special needs, worsens. Having a will and estate plan in place ahead of time can make navigating health challenges easier. If you prepare for the future, you won’t have to rush to make arrangements or risk passing away without a will.
Special Needs Trust
Your Will can incorporate a Special Needs Trust so that your child’s share will be used for their benefit without compromising any of their public benefits.
While a will is a basic estate planning document that can help you provide for your loved one with special needs after you pass, a trust can also protect their assets. Making a special needs trust includes appointing a responsible individual to act as the trustee.
The trust can pay for things public benefits do not cover, such as recreation and education. At the same time, a trust preserves your loved one’s ability to qualify for public benefits. Setting up a special needs trust can also ensure that they receive continued support during their lifetime.
Contact a Special Needs Planning Attorney
Make-a-Will Month is an important reminder to take steps toward securing your loved one’s future. Work with our law firm to create a plan that protects your loved ones with disabilities into the future.
In addition to helping create a will; we can assist you with making a comprehensive estate plan. This could include executing power of attorney documents and setting up a special needs trust for your loved one.
If you don’t have a will at all or are worried that your current will is not appropriate, please do not hesitate to contact our office at 1 (800) 680-1717. I look forward to the opportunity to speak with you.
Disclaimer: The information provided above is for general informational purposes only and is not legal advice.
