Arc of EA conference set for April 30

Parents with a child who has a disability often find themselves in a dilemma when planning for their child's future. Since the average family is seldom able to leave sufficient funds to care for their dependent's lifetime care, they must make sure their child remains eligible for government programs such as SSI, Medicaid, residential, training or support services.

The Life Planning for Person's with Disabilities conference is an educational program from Community Opportunities, The ARC of East Ascension (COEA.) The conference will take place from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., April 30, at the Clarion Inn Conference Center, 1500 W. La. 30, Gonzales.

Marketing Coordinator Sharon Morris said there has been a demand for this type of information in the community.

"The families have been asking for some type of estate planning to care for quite some time," Morris said. "The purpose of the conference is to educate the families of individuals with disabilities and those who advocate for individuals with disabilities."

Theresa M. Varnet, an attorney specializing in estate planning for people with disabilities, will be the keynote speaker.

In addition to being a lawyer, Varnet is a certified teacher, licensed social worker and the parent of a disabled adult daughter. As the current chairperson of the Special Needs Law Section of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Varnet is the nation's leading expert on estate planning issues for those with special needs.

Varnet's presentation will focus on how to assist families without adverse affects that may exclude them from receiving government support. Topics for the program include Introduction to Government Benefits, Preserving Eligibility, Guardianship and Less Intrusive Alternatives and Navigating the Social Security Maze. A panel of experts will also be available to answer questions regarding special needs estate planning.

Registration required, (225) 621-2005.