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ABLE accounts with financial planner John Gallia

Keywords:

Special needs, financial planning, ABLE accounts, special needs trusts, government benefits, SSI, RDSP, financial literacy, tax benefits, early planning


Summary:

In this conversation, John Gallia shares his expertise on financial planning for families with special needs children. He discusses the importance of starting financial planning early, navigating government benefits like SSI, and the differences between ABLE accounts and special needs trusts. The conversation also covers the benefits of RDSPs in Canada, tax implications, and common mistakes families make in financial planning. John emphasizes the need for individualized planning and the importance of seeking professional advice to ensure a secure financial future for children with disabilities.

John is a seasoned financial advisor and the founder of Gallia wealth management group, LLC, an independent financial planning practice that he established in 2015. John gained a financial planner designation in 2010. And he obtained his chartered special needs consultant designation in 2024. This specialization allows him to provide dedicated guidance to families navigating special needs planning across the US. John is the father of two boys seven and almost five and his eldest is on the spectrum. 

Takeaways:

- John Gallia emphasizes the importance of starting financial planning early for children with special needs.
- Families should navigate government benefits like SSI to secure financial support.
- ABLE accounts allow for gradual contributions, making them accessible for families.
- Special needs trusts are suitable for larger inheritances, while ABLE accounts are for smaller, ongoing contributions.
- RDSPs in Canada provide significant government contributions and tax-deferred growth.
- It's crucial to monitor account balances to avoid exceeding limits that affect benefits.
- Cash distributions from accounts can complicate financial planning and should be avoided.
- Quality of life for families is paramount, and outsourcing financial planning can help.
- The earlier you start financial planning, the more you can benefit from compounding interest.
- Families can view their journey as a blessing, despite the challenges they face.


Keep building your child’s future

Live with Intention – Embrace the Journey

If you found this episode helpful, please like, subscribe and leave a review! It helps other families like yours find support and guidance. Please help spread the word!

Connect with John Gallia:

https://galliawealthmanagement.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-j-gallia-jr-cfp%C2%AE-chsnc%C2%AE-55263734/

Connect with me:  

[email protected]

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/

Send us a text

In this conversation, Valerie and Dr. Molly Sullivan Denny discuss the journey of creating a supportive environment for individuals with special needs, focusing on independence, early intervention, and community support. Dr. Denny shares her experiences and insights from working with children and adults with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of teaching life skills and fostering a sense of belonging. The discussion highlights the challenges and successes of transitioning individuals to independent living while addressing the unique needs of each resident. This conversation explores the evolving landscape of adult living for individuals with disabilities, focusing on community support, the spectrum of disabilities, family dynamics in letting go, and the importance of finding purpose and independence in daily life. The discussion highlights the need for planning and understanding the unique needs of each individual, as well as the societal shifts towards more inclusive living environments. 

Dr. Molly Sullivan Denny has a Bachelor of Arts degree with a focus in communication sciences and disorders. She has also received both her master’s and doctoral degrees from Texas Woman’s University with a research focus on the effects of early intervention on the development of children with Down syndrome and the family dynamics of perceptions of siblings who have a child with special needs in their family. She worked at the RISE School of Dallas as a lead teacher and the Educational Coordinator. Currently she is the Director of Community Life for Daymark Living since 2015.

Takeaways

•   Watching residents learn independence is rewarding.

•   Community support is vital for families.

•   Independence looks different for everyone.

•   Teaching life skills is essential for success.

•   Transitioning to independent living requires planning. 

•   Societal views on disabilities have shifted from isolation to community integration.

•   Peer groups are essential for social interaction and personal growth.

•   Independence is fostered through daily activities and responsibilities.

•   Family dynamics play a crucial role in the transition to independent living.

•   Planning ahead is vital for the future of individuals with disabilities.

•   Purposeful activities enhance the quality of life for residents.

Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your biggest takeaways from this episode on social media or send us a message.

Subscribe & Review: If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more families who need guidance and encouragement on this journey.

Keep building your child’s future

Live with Intention – Embrace the Journey

Connect with Molly Denny:

[email protected]                         

https://www.daymarkliving.com

Connect with me:

[email protected]

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/

Send us a text

Episode Summary:

In this episode of ‘Forever Home for Our Kids with Disabilities’, Valerie is joined for the second time by John Gallia from Gallia Wealth Management for a powerful and practical conversation about special needs trusts - Henson Trust in Canada - and how families can begin planning NOW to secure their child’s financial future.

John is a seasoned financial advisor and the founder of Gallia wealth management group, LLC, an independent financial planning practice that he established in 2015. John gained a financial planner designation in 2010. And he obtained his chartered special needs consultant designation in 2024. This specialization allows him to provide dedicated guidance to families navigating special needs planning across the US. John is the father of two boys seven and almost five and his eldest is on the spectrum. 

They unpack the role of a trustee, why not just anyone should fill that position, and the key responsibilities involved. John offers insight into choosing between an individual trustee versus a corporate trustee and stresses the importance of starting early - even if it's one small step at a time.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

- What a Special Needs Trust is (Henson Trust in Canada) and why it matters

- The critical role of a trustee and how to choose the right one

- Key qualities to look for in a trustee: values, financial understanding, longevity, and trustworthiness

- The difference between an individual trustee and a corporate trustee

- Why it's important to start creating a special needs trust now - not later

- Practical advice on how to get started, even when life already feels overwhelming

- Encouragement and validation for families navigating life with a child with disabilities

Memorable Quotes:

~  “You can't just pick anybody to be your child's trustee. This is a lifelong commitment.”

~  “The key is — don’t wait. Start now. Even one step forward a month will add up to peace of mind.”

~  “We can't have paralysis by analysis. Take one bite at a time, and it will come together.”

~  “Mental, physical, financial, and time — these are our four limited resources. Planning helps preserve them all.”

Final Encouragement from John:

You're not alone. Even when it feels like you're on an island, know there’s a network of families, professionals, and resources who understand and are here to help. Keep going, one step at a time.

Keep building your child’s future

Live with Intention – Embrace the Journey

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and leave a review! It helps other families like yours find support and guidance. Please help spread the word!

Connect with John Gallia:

https://galliawealthmanagement.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-j-gallia-jr-cfp%C2%AE-chsnc%C2%AE-55263734/

Connect with me:  

[email protected] 

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/

Send us a text

Episode Summary:

In this informative episode of ‘Forever Home for Our Kids with Disabilities’, I sit down with resilience coach, accessibility advocate, and realtor Susan Janzen. Fun fact about Susan – she is the lead singer of the Trocadero Orchestra and an accomplished recording artist. Together, we explore the importance of accessible home design, community support, and sustainable living solutions for families raising children and caring for adults with disabilities.

Susan shares how she came to be in the special needs world. Susan introduces us to inspiring professionals she collaborates with in her realtor role, like an Edmonton architect passionate about "visitability" and a builder creating fully accessible garage suites.

Your host shares the story behind her daughter’s Forever Home — a beautifully accessible bungalow that required almost no modification. We dive into practical strategies for home design, including ramps, porch lifts, and wheelchair-friendly bathrooms.

We also touch on:

* The challenges of aging in place

* Why so many older homes are ill-equipped for accessibility

* The emotional impact of being unable to visit loved ones due to physical barriers

* How thoughtful design can change lives

Susan’s passion for building community shines as she shares her vision of a supportive space for caregivers and families of individuals with adaptive needs. From her daughter’s consulting group to potential retreats and virtual coffee chats, Susan is committed to helping families feel seen, supported, and empowered.

Key Takeaways:

* Accessibility begins at the entrance — and every detail matters

* Community collaboration is essential to long-term solutions

* Self-care is not optional: it’s vital for caregivers

* You are not alone — and there is a growing network ready to help

Connect with Susan:

Website: [www.suejanzen.ca](http://www.suejanzen.ca)

LinkedIn: [Susan Janzen](https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-janzen)

Facebook: [Susan Whalen Janzen](https://www.facebook.com/susanwhalenjanzen)

Podcast: Living and Loving Each Day: Bridging Barriers (Available on Spotify)

Janzen Consulting Group: [www.janzenconsultinggroup.com](http://www.janzenconsultinggroup.com)

Final Words of Encouragement:

“You are not alone. There’s no judgment here — just support, practical tips, and a community that gets it.”

Keep building your child’s future

Live with Intention - Embrace the Journey.

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and leave a review! It helps other families like yours find support and guidance. Please help spread the word!

Connect with me:  

[email protected] 

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/

Send us a text

Episode Description:

In this episode, we dive into the vital first steps every parent should take when thinking about a "forever home" for their child with disabilities. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by all the options or unsure where to start, you’re not alone. This conversation will guide you through the initial phase of envisioning your child's future from a financial perspective. 

John J. Gallia, CFP®, ChSNC®, is a seasoned financial advisor and the founder of Gallia Wealth Management Group, LLC, an independent financial planning practice he established in 2015. With both a Master’s and Bachelor’s degree from Lindenwood University, John has built a strong foundation of expertise, having earned his Certified Financial Planner (CFP®) designation in 2010. Motivated by a close family connection to the special needs community, he obtained his Chartered Special Needs Consultant (ChSNC®) designation in 2024. This specialization enables him to provide dedicated guidance to families navigating special needs planning across the U.S.

John has two sons, his eldest son is on the Autism spectrum. 

Highlights:

- John’s story as a special needs dad

- A brief look at trusts, government programs

- How John and your host have given back to the special needs community - Easter bunny event and AAC Camp Alberta (Augmentative and Alternative Communication)

- What to be mindful of when choosing a financial planner – do they have a Chartered Special Needs Consultant designation

- Why starting financial planning early matters more than you might think.

Whether you're just beginning to think about the future or are ready to take action, this episode will give you encouragement, insights, and a reminder that you're not walking this road alone.

ANNOUNCEMENT: 

John will be back to share more in-depth information – watch for his episode at the end of next month!!!

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and leave a review! It helps other families like yours find support and guidance. Help us spread the word!

Connect with John Gallia:

https://galliawealthmanagement.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-j-gallia-jr-cfp%C2%AE-chsnc%C2%AE-55263734/

Connect with me:  

[email protected] 

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/

Send us a text

Niti Prakash is a Disability Sector Consultant & Lawyer as well as disability accommodation/independent living options specialist at Disability Housing Solutions. Niti recently took on the role of Head of Engagement and Growth at Disability Housing Solutions. Niti’s most important role is a single parent to her 11-year-old daughter with multiple disabilities and challenges. 

Episode Description: 

In this insightful episode of ‘Forever Home for Our Kids with Disabilities’, Valerie sits down with Niti Prakash, an Australian advocate, parent, and expert in purpose-built housing for people with disabilities. With both professional insight and lived experience, Niti shares how families in Australia are navigating the complexities of creating forever homes through innovative housing models, like Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA).  

Whether you're just beginning to explore housing options or already knee-deep in planning, Niti offers a look at how it works in Australia.

In this episode, you’ll learn:  

- How Australia’s NDIS and SDA systems support individuals with disabilities in purpose-built homes 

- The concept of “robust housing” and how it's designed to protect both residents and carers  

- What it means to be a “self-provider” and the responsibilities involved  

- Real-life examples of care burnout, system challenges, and how to proactively advocate for your child 

- The importance of community, forgiveness, and staying strong on the caregiving journey  

Key Takeaways:  

- Purpose-built housing is not just about bricks and mortar — it’s about creating safety, independence, and a better quality of life.  

- Parents must juggle planning for the future while managing the intense demands of the present.  

- Bad things can happen, but with good design, supportive care teams, and strong advocacy, a thriving future is possible.  

- You are not alone — there is a global community of parents walking this path with you.  

Words of Encouragement from Niti:  

“Forgive yourself. You didn’t do anything wrong. You’re supporting a child with complex needs, and that’s not easy. There’s no manual — even for neurotypical kids. But you can do it. Hold on. There’s a whole community out there walking this journey with you.”

Don’t forget to:  

- Share this episode with another parent who might need it  

- Subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation  

- Keep building your child’s future with courage and intention  

Keep building your child’s future

Live with Intention – Embrace the Journey

Connect with Niti Prakash 

https://www.linkedin.com/in/niti-prakash-a38aa6108/

https://disabilityhousingsolutions.com.au/

Connect with me:

[email protected] 

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/

Send us a text

This week's guest is Angela O’Brien a mom of 2, professional organizer, Enneagram coach, and host of the podcast, Especially Organized: Sensible Solutions for Special Needs Moms. 

After spending 18 years raising her kids and advocating for her daughter who has Down Syndrome, Angela took her love of home organizing and turned it into a business where she speaks to and coaches fellow special needs moms through their clutter so that they can reclaim the space, freedom, and energy to do what they love. She especially enjoys speaking to them weekly through her podcast, providing tips, resources, and encouragement along the way.  Angela lives in Dallas, TX with her husband and daughter and is constantly trying to find her way to a beach

Episode Summary: In this episode of Forever Home for Our Kids with Disabilities, we explore the emotional and practical journey of planning a forever home for your child with disabilities. Many parents feel overwhelmed by the thought of their child’s future, especially when considering where they will live and who will care for them. Today, we discuss the fears, challenges, and the transformative mindset shift that can turn uncertainty into hope.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• The common fears parents face when thinking about their child’s long-term housing and care.
• The importance of taking the first step, even when it feels overwhelming.
• How to shift from a fear-based mindset to one of hope and proactive planning.
• Practical strategies for creating a roadmap for your child’s forever home.
• Real-life examples of families who have taken steps toward securing a bright future for their child.

Key Takeaways:

• It’s okay to feel scared, but don’t let fear paralyze you. Taking even small steps toward planning can bring peace of mind.
• Your child’s forever home can be a place where they thrive, not just survive.
• Building a supportive community and seeking expert guidance can make the process less daunting.
• You are not alone—other families have walked this path, and their stories can inspire you to take action.

Join the Conversation: We’d love to hear your thoughts! Share your biggest takeaways from this episode on social media or send us a message.

Subscribe & Review: If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and leave a review! Your support helps us reach more families who need guidance and encouragement on this journey.

Keep building your child’s future

Live with Intention – Embrace the Journey

Connect with Angela:

Website: https://yourspacereclaimed.net/

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/yourspacereclaimed/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yourspacereclaimed

Connect with me:

[email protected] 

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/

Send us a text

Welcome to Forever Home for Our Kids with Disabilities! I’m Valerie, a mom, life coach, and author passionate about helping parents create secure futures for their children with disabilities.

Key Topics:

1.        Understanding Your Child’s Needs

• Conduct a needs assessment covering physical, emotional, and social needs.
• Maintain a Comprehensive Child Profile to ensure consistent care.
• Visualize their future in 5, 10, and 20 years.

2.        Financial Planning

• Budget for daily expenses, home modifications, and long-term care.
• Leverage government benefits (SSI, Medicaid, AISH, PDD, RDSP).
• Secure private funding (trusts, grants, ABLE accounts).
• Protect your family with life, health, and disability insurance.
• Financial Vision Statement Example:
  “Our goal is to build a secure financial foundation for [child’s name]’s lifelong care and opportunities.”

3.        Legal Considerations

• Set up a Special Needs Trust (US) / Henson Trust (Canada) to maintain benefits.
• Identify key legal roles: Trustee, Financial & Healthcare POA, Guardianship.

Real-Life Housing Models: Our Experience

• Eden House (Supported Living Arrangement): Family-owned, personalized support, community integration.
• Legal Suite Model: Independent living with oversight, future rental income potential.

Take Action & Dream Big!

• Envision your ideal future for your child—what would it look like without barriers?

Quote: “The best way to predict the future is to invent it.” ~ Alan Kay

Subscribe & Connect:

• Follow the podcast for more insights.
• Contact me at [email protected] 

Keep building your child’s future

Live with Intention – Embrace the Journey

Transcript available.

Connect with me:

Valerie's Contact Links:

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/

Send us a text

Episode Summary: In this first episode of Forever Home for our kids with disabilities, we explore various options for creating a forever home for children with disabilities. I speak with two moms who have taken different approaches to ensure their children have a secure and supportive living environment. We hear from Cheryll  Wagner about apartment living with support; Dr. Lisa Campbell on choosing a residential facility for her daughter; and I share the solutions my husband and I created for our two children.

Key Takeaways:

1.  Cheryll Wagner’s Story – Apartment Living with Support: (skip back to episode 41 for full episode) 

- Cheryll has two sons with disabilities who live in an apartment with support services.

- She highlights the importance of fostering independence while ensuring they have the assistance they need.

- This option works well for individuals who can manage some aspects of daily life but still require structured support.

2.   Dr. Lisa Campbell’s Journey – Choosing a Residential Facility: (skip back to episode 42 for full episode) 

- Dr. Campbell shares her emotional journey of placing her daughter Jasmine in a residential facility.

- She discusses the cultural and personal challenges she faced in making this decision.

- Despite the difficulty, she found that this choice allowed both her and her daughter to grow and thrive.

- Over time, Jasmine moved between different facilities that best suited her needs, ultimately thriving in an environment where she could make choices and live on her terms.

3.  My Personal Experience – Two Unique Housing Solutions:

- My husband and I made the decision to transition our oldest daughter, Melody-Anne, into a supported living environment within our own home.

- We moved out and had two other young women with disabilities join her, while an agency provided 24-hour care.

- This choice allowed Melody-Anne to remain in a familiar setting while gaining independence and developing essential social skills.

- For our youngest child, we created a separate legal basement suite with the goal of fostering gradual independence.

- While they are not yet ready to move in, we remain hopeful that, with time and support, they will gain the necessary skills to transition successfully.

Final Thoughts: This episode highlights that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to housing for children with disabilities. Each family must consider their unique circumstances, cultural expectations, and what will best support their child’s growth and well-being.

If you found this episode helpful, please share it with other parents, caregivers, or family members who could benefit from these insights. And, if you're ready to start planning your child's forever home but aren't sure where to begin, I invite you to connect with me—I’d love to brainstorm with you!

Stay Connected:

·  Sign up for my monthly newsletter for insights and guidance on planning a forever home for your child. Email me at hello.hellocoachingwithvalerieanne.com.

·  Follow the podcast for more inspiring stories and practical advice.

Until next time - Live with Intention - Embrace the Journey!

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

Send us a text

Episode Summary:
In this episode, I sit down with K. Crystal Griffith to discuss the importance of giving our children the opportunity to grow, learn, and develop independence—especially when raising kids with disabilities. We dive into the fears many parents face, the importance of allowing our kids to fail as a stepping stone to success, and how to navigate the delicate balance of supporting them without overstepping. Crystal shares her personal experiences, valuable resources, and words of encouragement for parents walking this journey.

Key Takeaways:

• The Power of Hope: As parents, we need hope, and so do our children. Believing in their abilities and potential is crucial for their growth.
• Letting Them Learn: It’s natural to want to protect our kids from failure, but allowing them to stumble helps them build resilience and confidence.
• The Gift of Failure: Inspired by the book The Gift of Failure, we discuss why failure isn’t something to fear but a necessary part of the learning process.
• Encouraging Independence: Finding the balance between guidance and letting them make their own choices is key to fostering self-advocacy.
• Parental Growth: Our children often absorb more than we realize—even when they push back against our coaching or advice.
• Finding Joy in the Journey: Parenting a child with disabilities comes with unique challenges, but it also brings moments of joy and deep connection that many parents don’t experience.

Guest Information:
Crystal Griffith is a passionate advocate for parents raising children with disabilities. She provides community, support, and resources through her work with Medical Mom Warriors. 

Connect with Crystal: https://linktr.ee/kcrystalgriffith.com

Resources Mentioned:

• The Gift of Failure by Jessica Lahey
• Crystal’s membership community for parents seeking advocacy and support

Final Words of Encouragement:
Crystal reminds us to hold onto hope, embrace the unexpected moments, and find joy even in difficult situations.

Free Gift from Crystal - A printable Acrostic is available that corresponds to her Chapter Seasonal Purpose in the Women of Purpose Book.

https://linktr.ee/kcrystalgriffith.com

Live with Intention and 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/