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Episode Highlights:

• New Focus for 2025:
  • Valerie announces the podcast’s transition from sharing stories to offering practical, step-by-step guidance for forever home planning.
  • The mission remains the same: empowering and supporting parents of children with disabilities.
• Why This Change?
  • Many parents feel overwhelmed by the legal, financial, and emotional aspects of planning for their child’s future.
  • Valerie’s expertise and lived experience uniquely position her to offer structured solutions.
  • The podcast aims to provide a supportive space with actionable steps, ensuring families feel less isolated in the process.
• Key Topics in Forever Home Planning:
  • Legal Considerations: Navigating guardianship, Power of Attorney, Henson Trusts (Canada), and Special Needs Trusts (U.S.).
  • Financial Planning: Exploring funding options such as RDSPs, grants, and personal investments.
  • Housing Options: Evaluating independent living, supported housing, and cooperative housing models.
  • Building a Circle of Care: Establishing a network of professionals, family, and community members to support your child.
  • Emotional Readiness: Addressing guilt, anxiety, and uncertainty while embracing self-care and planning a fulfilling life beyond caregiving.
• Real-Life Success Stories:
  • A couple who secured a forever home for their son, allowing them to retire and travel with peace of mind.
  • A newly married couple who found a supported living arrangement that enabled them to strengthen their relationship while ensuring their child’s well-being.
  • Parents who successfully relocated for work, knowing their child was securely cared for in a stable living arrangement.
• What’s Ahead for the Podcast?
  • Step-by-step guidance on developing a forever home plan.
  • Conversations with financial planners, housing specialists, and disability advocates.
  • Personal stories from families at various stages of creating their child’s forever home.
  • Strategies for overcoming logistical and emotional challenges in the transition process.

How to Get Involved:

• Share your thoughts on the podcast’s new direction.
• Submit questions or topics you’d like to hear covered.
• Text Valerie through the podcast host platform to join her monthly newsletter for key insights on forever home planning.

Save the Date!
The next chapter of Special Needs Mom's Circle of Strength launches on March 5th with fresh content and a renewed focus.

Live with Intention – Embrace the Journey.

Connect with me:

Valerie's Links: https://bit.ly/3RL0da2

Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX (Canada)

https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4 (United States)

Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/