NDSS & Prudential

National Down Syndrome Society Joins Forces with Prudential
Alliance will aid families in planning for the financial future of loved ones with special needs

New York, NY - August 16th, 2010. The Prudential Insurance Company of America, based in Newark, NJ, will provide members of the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) support in the area of financial literacy as a result of an agreement the two organizations announced today.

“We’re excited to work with Prudential to help people with Down syndrome and their families learn more about planning for their future financial needs,” said Jon Coleman, president of NDSS. “Both organizations have a vested interest in increasing awareness in this area as well as creating additional resources and opportunities for our members.”

Through the agreement, Prudential will host informational webinars and participate in local NDSS chapter activities including Buddy Walks. “Our involvement with NDSS reflects Prudential's commitment to serving the particular financial needs of growing diverse markets,” said Joan Cleveland, senior vice president, Business Development, Individual Life Insurance. "The work NDSS does is invaluable and we’re proud to leverage their extensive experience and join them as an advocate for the special needs community.”

Over the last year, a core team of Prudential and independent financial professionals located across the country have been trained to address the unique financial concerns of families caring for loved ones with special needs through the company’s program, Special Needs Solutions…For All Ages. Specifically, financial professionals in the program can help families:

• Understand how a special needs trust, a document prepared by an attorney with expertise in special needs law, protects an individual’s eligibility for government assistance such as Supplemental Security Income and/or Medicaid. Assets held by the trust for the benefit of someone with special needs should be used to supplement—not replace—government assistance.
• Select the proper insurance and financial products to help fund the special needs trust.

• Get started with a Letter of Intent, a non-binding document which states a family’s wishes for their loved one's future with regard to health issues, educational goals, housing, etc., and the means to support those wishes.

“We understand that providing financially for a family member with special needs isn't a simple task. That’s one of the reasons we’re focusing our efforts on supporting this community,” added Cleveland.

To date, over 140 Prudential and independent financial professionals have participated in the Special Needs Solutions…For All Ages program. After completing a comprehensive three-day training course, participants stay up-to-date on current issues through ongoing discussions. For additional information about Special Needs Solutions…For all ages or to locate a financial professional who specializes in servicing the special needs community visit www.prudential.com/specialneeds.

Until Next Time!

Lots of Love,

Erica