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flexibility, dependability and positive attitude are an asset to the program. Amy also works on the "VISIONS" newsletter and gives her personal time to assist with the "Happy Hearted Voices" choir.
Amy Kwasniowski is the Residential Director of BCARC's home on West St. in Pittsfield. She works diligently with the staff, the nursing department and the individuals themselves to assure that they remain
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healthy, have an opportunity to grow and are part of their community. A great team player, Amy handles every task with competence and is always willing to seek advice.
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Amy Corbett is a Habilitation Specialist at the Social Development Center, where she radiates energy and spirit as she supports individuals in reaching their goals. Her
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On September 21st, more than 60 people gathered at the Lenox 218 Restaurant to hear Attorney Theresa Varnet, M.S.W., J. D., speak about futures planning. Arc Mass and Berkshire County Arc sponsored the presentation.
Ms. Varnet, a nationally recognized authority on futures planning and government benefits for disabled people, spoke first about eligibility for government benefits under various state and federally funded programs. She stressed that many people are either not
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aware of or not applying for benefits for which they are eligible. The second part of her presentation, concerned preserving lifetime eligibility for government benefits through careful estate planning. She emphasized the fact that any trust must be carefully written to satisfy government regulations and preserve benefits.
After discussing guardianship and consent issues, Ms. Varnet outlined several ways that families, regardless of their financial resources, can accumulate significant funds both to supplement and to
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provide a quality life for their disabled family members.
Whether you attended the conference or not, if you have questions regarding financial planning for a disabled family member or a special needs trust, you may call Berkshire County Arc, 413-499-4241 ext. 266 for more information.
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Fall 2002 VISIONS PAGE 10
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