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Sponsor Spotlight: Financial Freedom for Every Journey with MiABLE
Breaking financial barriers for individuals with disabilities starts with the right tools. MiABLE, Michigan’s disability savings program, empowers people to save and invest without jeopardizing critical benefits like Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income. By offering a smarter way to plan for the future, MiABLE transforms lives and opens doors to financial independence.
May is Disability Awareness Month —a time to raise awareness about disability issues and advocate for disability rights and inclusion, making it the perfect time to start saving. MiABLE helps individuals with disabilities take the first step toward financial security.
This article highlights the stories of four unique individuals who have harnessed the power of MiABLE to lead financially secure, independent and fulfilling lives. Each narrative showcases the transformative impact of this program, emphasizing that financial freedom is attainable for all.
The college dream: Amanda’s path to independence
Amanda Hanshaw is not your average college freshman. As someone with Down syndrome, Amanda has faced her share of challenges, but her resilience and determination shine through. Last fall, she joined the University of Cincinnati’s Transition Access Program, embracing campus life like any other student. Her parents knew early on that MiABLE would be a cornerstone of Amanda’s future. As advocates for financial independence for people with disabilities, the Hanshaws opened a MiABLE account as soon as the program launched in Michigan.
Amanda’s MiABLE account served as the perfect place to save graduation gifts and earnings from her summer job.
“We’ve always wanted Amanda to have the resources to support herself and lead an independent life,” Carrie Hanshaw said. With MiABLE, the Hanshaws can rest easy knowing Amanda’s financial future is secure.
Changing the future: Nicole Derusha-Mackey’s story
Nicole Derusha-Mackey always prioritized saving for her children’s futures. But when her son Devin was diagnosed with Barth syndrome — a rare genetic disorder — her plans changed. Devin required extensive medical care, including a lifesaving heart transplant at age 2.
When MiABLE launched, Nicole saw its potential to support Devin’s needs beyond education. She transferred his college savings into a MiABLE account, which now helps cover medical travel expenses and even a mobility scooter, granting him more independence.
Now 20, Devin continues to benefit from MiABLE. Nicole, chief of staff for State Sen. John Cherry Jr. and an advocate with the Barth Syndrome Foundation, encourages families to open MiABLE accounts, recognizing the financial security they provide.
Building a secure future: Aaron’s investment plan
Aaron Martinuzzi is no stranger to financial planning. After a diving accident left him with a spinal cord injury, Aaron, a software analyst, knew he needed a way to save for the future without risking his government benefits. Enter MiABLE, which he describes as a “game changer” for people with disabilities.
Aaron’s mother, a CPA, introduced him to MiABLE, and he wasted no time opening an account. He has since transferred much of his savings from a qualified disability trust into his MiABLE account, which offers better investment opportunities.
“MiABLE empowers people with disabilities to be as independent as practical,” Aaron explained. Whether saving for a new accessible minivan or planning for retirement, Aaron credits MiABLE with giving him the tools to lead a financially secure and fulfilling life.
Finding purpose: Sarah’s journey to self-worth
For Sarah Perez, MiABLE has been nothing short of life-changing. Living with a complex medical history and bipolar disorder, Sarah often felt isolated and unable to plan for the future. But everything changed when her mother introduced her to MiABLE.
“MiABLE gave me my life back,” Sarah says. By saving for a computer to support her photography business, she found a renewed sense of purpose and financial independence. Today, Sarah is not only a successful photographer but also an ABLE Ambassador, advocating for disability savings programs nationwide.
“It’s the little things in life that make a difference,” Sarah reflected. “MiABLE restored my sense of worth and gave me the tools to live a purposeful life.”
What makes MiABLE uniquely you?
MiABLE stands out as more than just a savings program — it’s a pathway to independence and empowerment. With the ability
to save up to $19,000 annually, individuals can plan for their futures without fear of losing vital benefits. Whether they’re investing in education, technology, housing or retirement, MiABLE account owners can tailor their savings to their unique needs and goals.
Opening a MiABLE account is simple and quick, taking 15 minutes online. For the 500,000 eligible individuals in Michigan, this program represents an opportunity to take control of their finances and embrace a brighter future.
A call to action
The inspiring stories of Amanda, Nicole, Aaron and Sarah illustrate the incredible potential of MiABLE. This program is not just about saving money — it’s about creating opportunities, fostering independence and enabling individuals with disabilities to live life on their terms.
MiABLE also recently announced an exciting new benefits program called MiABLE Perks. The program provides MiABLE account owners with access to exclusive discounts on everything from pizza and the zoo to movie tickets, car rentals and hotels.
If you or someone you know could benefit from MiABLE, don’t wait. Take the first step toward financial freedom and open a MiABLE account today. Your journey to independence starts now.
For more information, visit MiABLE.org and discover how this program can help you embrace your unique path to financial success.
