Episode 19: Meeting You Where You Are; Financial Planning for Disability
Navigating the complex journey of raising children with medical complexities requires not only emotional and physical resilience but also a strategic approach to financial planning. In our latest episode of "Rarely Familiar," hosts Jen, Tram, and Haley delve deep into the financial considerations crucial for families raising children with complex needs. Joined by Genevieve Cornish, a financial representative from Northwestern Mutual, we open up about the challenges and opportunities in financial planning, sharing valuable insights on building a future that secures both the child's and the family's well-being.
Genevieve Cornish brings a wealth of personal and professional experience to the table. As a mother of a neurodivergent teen, she knows firsthand the unique demands placed on families within the disability community. Her mission is to provide lifelong financial planning support to special needs families (see disclaimer below) and their support networks, ensuring that these families can envision a secure future for their loved ones.
A crucial takeaway from our discussion with Genevieve is the importance of having a knowledgeable financial advisor who understands the intricacies of special needs planning. Unlike typical financial advisors,
Genevieve's practice is tailored to meet families exactly where they are, whether they are just starting their journey or are well-versed in managing complex needs.
In addition to offering advice on saving and planning, Genevieve emphasizes the value of building a team of professionals who can provide comprehensive support. This includes an estate planning attorney, CPA, government benefits expert, and, when necessary, a corporate trustee. The collective expertise of these professionals can help families navigate legal and financial complexities while safeguarding access to essential benefits.
For families facing the daunting task of financial planning alongside the daily realities of raising children with special needs, Genevieve offers reassurance and actionable steps. The journey begins with reaching out and having a discovery meeting—a meaningful first step that involves listening, understanding, and assessing the family's immediate and future needs.
Our conversation with Genevieve Cornish underscores the significance of strategic financial planning in the special needs community. With the right guidance and support, families can feel empowered to make financial decisions that secure their children's futures and provide peace of mind.
Important Disclaimer: We understand the term “Special Needs” is considered disrespectful to the disability community, however, we chose to leave it in this episode due to the nature of the terminology currently utilized for these specific financial accounts.
Tips and Tricks
It’s important to find a knowledgeable financial advisor who understands the intricacies of special needs planning
It’s critical to build a team of professionals who can provide comprehensive support. This includes an estate planning attorney, CPA, government benefits expert, and, when necessary, a corporate trustee.
You can and should visit this topic of financial planning whether you are just starting on this journey of raising a medically complex child or you are already well-versed in managing your child complex needs, being aware of the financial aspects that are present for the full journey.
The first step begins with reaching out and having a discovery meeting—a meaningful first step that involves listening, understanding, and assessing the family's immediate and future needs.
Regardless of where you are financially, you can be met exactly where you are on your journey.
Resources
Northwestern Mutual/Genevieve Cornish direct link to website
Special Needs Checklist at Northwestern Mutual. PRINT THIS!
Connect with Genevieve Cornish on LinkedIn
For an even deeper dive, attend Genevieve’s upcoming webinar June 12, 6-7:30 2025 via Partners in Excellence: Autism Therapy Center Click here to register. Please register by June 5.
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