About HSNF.
Making an Impact
Funding UnderfundedTrusts
Government benefits are often an option for individuals with special needs and their families, but this assistance
doesn’t always cover all essential and elective expenses. Opening a special needs trust is a common way to supplement and ensure these government benefits, but sometimes, that additional support doesn’t give room for discretionary income. Special Needs Assured provides grants to underfunded special needs trusts so individuals with special needs can live their lives to the fullest without worrying about covering necessary expenses.
Providing FreeEducationon the Best Practices of Special Needs Planning
Navigating the landscape of special needs trusts and government benefits can be an intimidating process for those new to the process. Special Needs Assured aims to simplify and explain what a special needs trust can do, how to set one up, and how to best leverage trusts to create a useful resource for individuals with special needs.
Bringing PeopleTogetherin the Special Needs Community
There’s no better way to learn about special needs trusts, government benefits, and everything else related than speaking to other families who have done it before. That’s why we aim to build a community to connect those who need it with those who know.
Heartland Special Needs FoundationBoard Members
FoundationCommittees
Community Partnership: Develop plans to provide funding for special needs trusts or grants and to create ways to foster connections within the disability community.
Education: Plan and conduct educational events about the ABLE account and special needs trusts.
Development: Create and promote the annual fundraiser as well as create fundraising initiatives throughout the year. This committee also has two sub-committees that help with the KC Special Needs Planning Conference and grant writing.
OUR FOUNDER
The Heartland Special Needs Foundation was founded by Samantha L. Shepherd in December of 2020. As a legal professional, Samantha has over a decade of commitment to serving individuals and families with special needs and other forms of IDD (Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities). As a result of the efforts of Shepherd Elder Law Group and Assured Trust Company, two firms started by Samantha, she has seen firsthand how complicated and confusing the world of special needs planning can be.
Noting some of the persistent needs of her clients and families, Samantha created Heartland Special Needs Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) public charity to fill the gaps between government benefits and special needs trusts. Our organization strives to fulfill a three-part mission: funding for underfunded special needs trusts, providing resources and information through education, and bringing people together in the special needs community.
The Importance of Special Needs Trusts
Why Special Needs Trusts Matter
Special needs trusts are essential tools that provide financial security and peace of mind for individuals with disabilities and their families. These trusts ensure that beneficiaries can maintain their eligibility for government benefits while receiving additional financial support to enhance their quality of life.
By establishing a special needs trust, families can safeguard their loved ones’ futures, ensuring that they have access to necessary resources and services. This financial planning tool allows for the management of assets in a way that prioritizes the beneficiary’s unique needs and circumstances.
Moreover, special needs trusts offer flexibility and protection, allowing families to tailor their plans according to their specific goals and concerns. This proactive approach to financial planning is crucial in providing long-term stability and support for individuals with special needs.