In this month's class, we take on a very important topic that rarely gets enough attention: your child's social life!

After all, friends are an important part of everyone's quality of life. Recreation and relaxation with friends is often the key to our happiness--and that's true for kids and adults with special needs, too.

In this webinar, we'll cover:

• Where to look for local social programs and services
• How to start the process of building a social circle for your child
• Helpful technology and resources that are available to you

If you'd like the information, but can’t attend, go ahead and register, and we’ll provide you with a link to the recorded video after the class.  

For Zoom security, when you register, you’ll receive an email with a link to class and a passcode—which you’ll be asked to enter when you log-on. (To avoid disruption, we'll close the class at 12:05. If you’re late, you'll be able to watch the video later.) 

If you missed last month's Parent University class, "Government Benefits: What You Need to Know," you can watch it for free—but only for a short time. The video is available with our compliments until May 13; just use the coupon code 2023pu4government.

In this valuable session, we cover the basics regarding SSI, SSDI, DAC, Medicaid and Medicare. Learn how to apply, why they're important, and how to leverage them to the fullest. If you missed this class, you'll want to catch up now!

To watch it using the Coupon Code:

• Click on the link below to access the class in our store
• Add the class to your cart
• Type in the above code at checkout
• Click “Apply coupon”

As you know, the pandemic left many members of the special needs community isolated, as many regular activities were paused. Such was the case of our client, Amy Leff, whose job was suspended during the shutdown.

Instead of letting it get her down, she taught herself to draw. From there, her family enrolled her in Masterpiece Project, a nine-month art class for adults with cognitive disabilities. The program is part of the Center for Independent Futures based in Evanston, Illinois.

Masterpiece Project isn't just about art, but about socializing and making connections. Along with a dozen peers, Amy explored drawing and painting, while developing friendships. The class culminated in an art exhibit held at a local gallery, which further boosted the artists' confidence.

“My family loves my work,” says Amy. “Some people can’t believe how good it is.”

Read the full story here

Meet Mary Heil

If you’ve called Protected Tomorrows over the years, you may know Mary's sweet, friendly voice! Mary, who joined us as Operations Coordinator in 2010, came to us with 30+ years of experience in the credit union industry. A former CFO, she often quotes the industry motto: “Not for profit, not for charity, but for service.”

Mary holds an AS in Accounting and a BS in Business. She recently earned her Financial Paraplanner Qualified Professional (FPQP) designation from the College for Financial Planning. She finds gratification in putting her knowledge to work for our clients.

Upcoming Events, May - July, 2023