“Trust Matters: Setting Up a Special Needs Trust for Your Child’s Future” with John Gallia.

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Episode Summary:

In this episode of ‘Forever Home for Our Kids with Disabilities’, Valerie is joined for the second time by John Gallia from Gallia Wealth Management for a powerful and practical conversation about special needs trusts - Henson Trust in Canada - and how families can begin planning NOW to secure their child’s financial future.

John is a seasoned financial advisor and the founder of Gallia wealth management group, LLC, an independent financial planning practice that he established in 2015. John gained a financial planner designation in 2010. And he obtained his chartered special needs consultant designation in 2024. This specialization allows him to provide dedicated guidance to families navigating special needs planning across the US. John is the father of two boys seven and almost five and his eldest is on the spectrum. 

 

They unpack the role of a trustee, why not just anyone should fill that position, and the key responsibilities involved. John offers insight into choosing between an individual trustee versus a corporate trustee and stresses the importance of starting early - even if it's one small step at a time.

 

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

- What a Special Needs Trust is (Henson Trust in Canada) and why it matters

- The critical role of a trustee and how to choose the right one

- Key qualities to look for in a trustee: values, financial understanding, longevity, and trustworthiness

- The difference between an individual trustee and a corporate trustee

- Why it's important to start creating a special needs trust now - not later

- Practical advice on how to get started, even when life already feels overwhelming

- Encouragement and validation for families navigating life with a child with disabilities

 

Memorable Quotes:

~  “You can't just pick anybody to be your child's trustee. This is a lifelong commitment.”

~  “The key is — don’t wait. Start now. Even one step forward a month will add up to peace of mind.”

~  “We can't have paralysis by analysis. Take one bite at a time, and it will come together.”

~  “Mental, physical, financial, and time — these are our four limited resources. Planning helps preserve them all.”

 

Final Encouragement from John:

You're not alone. Even when it feels like you're on an island, know there’s a network of families, professionals, and resources who understand and are here to help. Keep going, one step at a time.

 

Keep building your child’s future

Live with Intention – Embrace the Journey

 

If you found this episode helpful, please subscribe and leave a review! It helps other families like yours find support and guidance. Please help spread the word!

 

Connect with John Gallia:

https://galliawealthmanagement.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-j-gallia-jr-cfp%C2%AE-chsnc%C2%AE-55263734/

 

Connect with me:  

[e-mail] 

 

Music Acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

Editor: Scott Arbeau

Link for book: The S.H.I.N.E. Principle: The special needs mom's path to strength, hope and happiness by Valerie Arbeau

https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B0CW18ZXGX (Canada)

https://a.co/d/03hFdZI4 (United States)

Learn more about your host at:
https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/