Forever Home for our kids with disabilities.

Valerie Arbeau
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Formerly Special Needs Moms - Circle of Strength.  This podcast has begun a shift in focus... Hey, I’m Valerie, mom to two with disabilities (one visible, one invisible). We came up with housing solutions for our children. This space has been created to help you navigate the journey of creating a secure, sustainable forever home for your child.  We’ll chat with parents on this path, realtors, financial planners, and other experts who can make the process easier. We'll be dropping an episode twice a month. Seeing my eldest thrive living independent of us was a gift I didn’t always know I could give. I'm excited for you to have the opportunity to explore giving that gift to your child.   Keep building your child’s future!  Music acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

  1. 1D AGO

    Understanding the Disability Tax Credit (DTC) in Canada with Annie and Gordon VanderLeek

    Send a text In this episode, Valerie continues her conversation with estate planning lawyer Gordon VanderLeek and disability advocate Annie VanderLeek about an important support available to Canadian families raising children with disabilities: the Disability Tax Credit (DTC). Gordon is the founder of VanderLeek Law, and Annie leads the firm’s Disability Advocates division, helping families navigate disability-related programs and supports. Together they explain what the DTC is, how eligibility is determined, and why this credit can be much more significant than a simple tax reduction. What is the Disability Tax Credit? The DTC is a federal program administered by the Canada Revenue Agency. While it can reduce income tax, it also acts as an important gateway to other federal disability supports. Eligibility is not based on diagnosis alone. Instead, the CRA evaluates how a disability affects a person’s daily functioning. To qualify, a person must be: - Markedly restricted in one area of daily living, or - Significantly restricted in multiple areas Areas assessed may include walking, hearing, eliminating, mental functioning, and life-sustaining therapy. Why Documentation Matters Strong documentation is critical when applying. Helpful records may include: - Medical and psychological assessments - School reports or IPPs/IEPs - Therapy reports - Historical diagnoses As Annie emphasizes, keeping documentation helps families clearly demonstrate the real-life impact of a disability. Challenges in the Application Process The DTC application requires a medical professional to complete part of the form. Challenges can arise when doctors: - Do not know the individual well - Have limited time to complete forms - Are unfamiliar with certain disabilities Working with professionals who understand the complexity of disability can make a significant difference. Retroactive Benefits One powerful aspect of the DTC is that approval can be retroactive for up to 10 years, depending on when the disability began. This can result in meaningful tax refunds that help offset the additional costs families often face. Final Advice Annie’s biggest recommendation for families: Keep your documentation. Medical reports, school records, and assessments may become essential when applying for disability supports. This episode is part of a continuing series exploring financial and legal planning for families raising children with disabilities. Live with intention - Embrace the journey.   Connect with the VanderLeeks - Website: vanderleeklaw.ca - Disability Advocacy Services: disabilityadvocates.ca · https://facebook.com/vanderleeklaw · https://www.linkedin.com/company/vanderleeklaw · https://www.instagram.com/vanderleek_law/   Connect with Valerie info@foreverhomeconsulting.ca   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) Learn more about your host at: https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/

    32 min

  2. MAR 4

    Designing Homes That Truly Welcome Everyone with Ron Wickman

    Send a text In this episode, Valerie sits down with architect, author, and accessibility advocate Ron Wickman to explore what it truly means to design homes that support independence, dignity, and lifelong connection. Ron brings over 30 years of experience in accessible architecture—and a deeply personal perspective. His father became paraplegic in 1964 at just 23 years old and was told he would likely live in an institution and never work again. Instead, he became a city councillor in Edmonton and later a Member of the Legislative Assembly, advocating for change across Alberta. Growing up immersed in disability advocacy shaped Ron’s professional mission: transforming accessible design from a “special feature” into the cultural norm. We Discuss: How Lived Experience Shapes Design Ron shares how navigating the world alongside his father exposed the barriers embedded in the built environment—from backdoor restaurant entrances to inaccessible homes—and how those experiences led him to architecture instead of politics. What “Accessible Design” Really Means Ron clarifies the differences between: Accessible DesignUniversal DesignInclusive DesignBarrier-Free DesignVisitabilityThe Power of Visitability Inspired by disability advocate Eleanor Smith, the concept of visitability ensures that every home has: A no-step entranceWider doorwaysA main floor bathroom accessible to wheelchair usersThese features benefit everyone. The 3 Critical Features of a Forever Home If you are searching for or building a home that can be modified for accessibility, Ron recommends focusing on: Ground-to-Front-Door Relationship Can someone enter without steps? If not, what modifications (ramps, lifts) would be required? Vertical Circulation If it’s not a bungalow, is there room for: A stair lift?A vertical platform lift?An elevator?Bathroom Size & Layout Older homes often have bathrooms that are too small to modify without major structural changes. Adequate space from the beginning makes aging in place—and caregiving—significantly easier. Ron advocates for “wet rooms”—fully waterproofed bathrooms with sloped floors and open shower areas.   Shifting the Cultural Mindset One of the biggest barriers to accessible housing isn’t cost—it’s perception. Make accessibility the norm—not the exception.   Coming Next Ron will return to discuss his work designing homes for the neurodivergent population—an area requiring even more nuanced, individualized planning.   Connect with Ron Google Ron Wickman Architect online to visit his website and explore his publications on accessible housing.   Connect with Valerie info@foreverhomeconsulting.ca   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)   If this episode encouraged or informed you, please share it with another parent navigating the forever home journey. Learn more about your host at: https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/

    30 min

  3. FEB 18

    Protecting the Forever Home – Trusts, Planning & What Happens When You’re No Longer Here with Estate Lawyer Gordon VanderLeek

    Send a text In Part Two of this informative conversation, I sit down again with estate lawyer Gordon VanderLeek, founder of VanderLeek Law, to unpack the legal and practical realities of securing a forever home for our children with disabilities. If you think buying the right house is the hard part — think again. Gordon walks us through the integrated planning that must happen behind the scenes to truly protect your child’s future. From tax implications to vulnerability risks, from Trusteeship to roommate agreements, this episode is full of insight every parent needs to hear. In This Episode We Cover: The most common mistakes families make when purchasing or transferring a homeWhy “just putting the house in your child’s name” can create serious long-term risksHow Canada’s principal residence exemption factors into planningWhy tax should never be the first priority — protection shouldHow to legally structure living arrangements with roommates or support workersThe importance of written agreements (even when everyone gets along)What happens when parents are no longer able to advocateCreating a Letter of Wishes or roadmap document to guide future caregiversPassing on financial knowledge (banking, bills, supports) before it’s neededWhether a Henson Trust can own property in Alberta — and how that worksHow Trustees should be empowered to manage repairs, renovations, or sale of the homeEnsuring there are enough funds in the Trust to support not just housing — but the whole lifeGordon also reminds us that a Trust is not just a tax tool — it’s a protective structure. And planning isn’t just about legal documents; it’s about transferring knowledge. One of the most practical takeaways? Start small. Open a document. Write one paragraph. Add to it over time. A roadmap doesn’t need to be perfect — it just needs to exist. Because when crisis hits, the worst time to figure this out is after the funeral. Final Encouragement You do not have to do this alone. Bring in professionals. Talk to other parents. Build your circle. Refine your plan over time. Peace of mind comes from preparation — not perfection. If this episode helped you think differently about your child’s forever home, share it with another parent who needs this conversation.   Connect with Gordon VanderLeek Website: vanderleeklaw.caDisability Advocacy Services: disabilityadvocates.ca·       https://facebook.com/vanderleeklaw ·       https://www.linkedin.com/company/vanderleeklaw ·       https://www.instagram.com/vanderleek_law/   Connect with Valerie info@foreverhomeconsulting.ca 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/

    49 min

  4. FEB 4

    Mobility, Dignity & Designing for the Future with Al Neary

    Send a text Episode Overview In this episode, Valerie sits down with Al Neary, a mobility and rehabilitation expert with nearly 40 years of experience, to discuss how thoughtful equipment choices and home planning can support dignity, independence, and long-term quality of life for individuals with disabilities. Al shares practical insights for families navigating wheelchairs, seating, bathing, transfers, and home modifications—along with powerful stories that reframe mobility from limitation to possibility. Meet Al Neary Founder and president of Maximum Mobility (est. 2007)Calgary native and longtime volunteer with CADS – Canadian Adaptive Snow SportsSpecializes in pediatric and complex rehabilitation equipmentPassionate advocate for function, safety, and inclusion What You’ll Learn in This Episode Mobility Is More Than a Wheelchair A wheelchair is just one part of daily independence. Al explains the importance of complementary equipment such as lifts, commodes, shower chairs, hospital beds, grab bars, and change tables—to keep both individuals and caregivers safe. Why Proper Seating Matters Comfort, positioning, and support directly impact function, energy, and dignity. Al explains how customized seating enables independence and reduces physical and mental fatigue. Follow-Up & Maintenance (Especially in Alberta) Pediatric equipment is reviewed regularly due to growthAdult equipment is user-driven—vendors cannot initiate follow-upsFamilies must track replacement timelines through AADLRoutine servicing extends equipment life and improves daily functionBathrooms, Transfers & Home Design Commonly overlooked areas include: Bathroom size and layoutTrue roll-in showers (no lip)Space for commode accessLighting, doorway width, and transfer zonesEarly planning—before drywall or final layouts—can save money and stress. Future-Proofing the Forever Home Al emphasizes: Zero-threshold entriesWider doorwaysCeiling lift planningMultiple accessible exits for safetyAccessible design can be beautiful, functional, and a strong resale asset. Reframing Mobility Mobility equipment is a tool, not a setback. Al shares moving stories of children gaining independence, inclusion, and confidence through the right supports. “It’s not about what someone can’t do—it’s about giving them the tools to participate.”   Key Takeaways Think long-term, not just for todayInvolve professionals earlyPlan for growth, aging, and caregiver safetyFocus on dignity, function, and inclusion Live with intention. Embrace the journey. Thank you for listening to Forever Home for Our Kids with Disabilities.   Connect with Al Neary 🌐 www.maxmobility.ca 📞 403-769-6166 📧 ALN@maxmobility.ca   Connect with Valerie info@foreverhomeconsulting.ca   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) Learn more about your host at: https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/

    41 min

  5. JAN 21

    From Survival to Sustainability: Autism Parenting and Long-Term Planning with Dr. Theresa Lyons

    Send a text Episode Summary In this powerful and deeply validating episode, Valerie is joined by Dr. Theresa Lyons—international autism educator, Ivy League scientist, and autism parent—for an honest conversation about the hidden toll of parenting a child with autism, the emerging science around parent PTSD, and the hope found in evidence-based supports. Dr. Lyons shares her personal journey following her daughter’s autism diagnosis and reflects on the lack of clear guidance parents often receive—even years later. Together, Valerie and Dr. Lyons explore the reality of chronic stress, trauma, and nervous system dysregulation experienced by many parents, and why acknowledging this is not a failure of love, but an act of care. Key Topics Covered New 2025 research linking autism parenting stress to PTSD diagnosesWhy parent trauma remains a taboo topic—and why that must changeHow EMDR therapy helps parents process trauma and restore regulationThe critical role of sleep, breathing, and nervous system supportLeucovorin explained: the science, testing (FRAT), benefits, and controversyEvidence-based approaches vs. fear-driven decision-makingIncluding children and young adults with disabilities in housing decisionsReal-life examples of supported independence and forever homesThe profound impact of AAC on communication, advocacy, and identityLetting go as an act of love: roots, wings, and dignity in adulthoodNotable Takeaways Trauma can occur without blame—and it can be healedParents need support systems, not just child-focused interventionsIndependence often unlocks communication, confidence, and joyPlanning a forever home creates continuity, security, and peace of mindParenting may not look as imagined—but it can be even more meaningful*** Listen to season 2 episode 13 to hear Ishan Manerikar’s story of moving out from his parents’ home.   Closing Reflection This episode is a reminder that caring for yourself is not separate from caring for your child—and that with intention, planning, and support, families can move from survival to sustainability.   Connect Theresa Lyons https://navigatingawetism.com/ https://awetism.net/   Connect with Valerie info@foreverhomeconsulting.ca   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/

    36 min

  6. JAN 7

    Canadian Estate Planning, Advocacy, and the RDSP — with Gordon VanderLeek

    Send a text In this episode, Valerie sits down with Gordon VanderLeek, founder of VanderLeek Law and a nationally respected voice in estate planning and disability advocacy. As both a lawyer and a father of five adopted children, three with long-term disabilities, Gordon brings rare professional expertise grounded in lived experience. They explore what it truly means to plan for a child’s future when lifelong supports are required, with a particular focus on the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) and how it fits into a comprehensive forever home strategy. Gordon VanderLeek is the founder and managing lawyer of VanderLeek Law, with a practice focused on wills, estates, trust planning, and guardianship for families impacted by disability. He holds the Trust and Estate Practitioner (STEP) designation and is a member of the Canadian Bar Association’s Wills and Estates Section. Alongside his wife Annie, Gordon co-founded Disability Advocates, a division of the firm dedicated to helping families navigate complex social service systems through practical, compassionate advocacy. Gordon hosts two podcasts, the latter with Annie: Estates Made Simple and We Advocate. You’ll learn -Gordon’s personal journey as a foster and adoptive parent navigating disability, education systems, and advocacy -Why estate planning for families with disabilities is fundamentally different—and where many families unintentionally go wrong -The origin and purpose of the Registered Disability Savings Plan (RDSP) -How the RDSP works, including: Government grants and bonds, Contribution limits and timelines, Why starting early matters -How RDSPs interact with government income supports like AISH (Alberta) -A critical but often-overlooked downside of RDSPs: what happens when the beneficiary passes away -When an RDSP is ideal—and when alternative strategies may be more appropriate -Why advocacy is often required to access supports (and why “no” is not always the final answer) -The importance of guardianship and trusteeship planning -Why long-term planning must address both financial security and human support -Words of encouragement for parents raising a child with disabilities   Key Takeaways -The RDSP is one of the most powerful financial tools available to Canadians with disabilities—but it must be used thoughtfully within a broader plan (https://www.canada.ca/en/revenue-agency/services/tax/individuals/topics/registered-disability-savings-plan-rdsp.html) -Government systems are complex and siloed; families should not be expected to navigate them alone -Advocacy is not optional—it is often the difference between access and exclusion -Planning ahead is an act of love, not fear -Parents and partners must care for each other in order to sustain the long journey ahead Live with Intention – Embrace the Journey   Connect with Gordon VanderLeek Website: vanderleeklaw.ca Disability Advocacy Services: disabilityadvocates.ca Connect with Valerie info@foreverhomeconsulting.ca 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 (C Learn more about your host at: https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/

    42 min

  7. 12/24/2025

    Clarity, Consistency, and a Christmas Message of Hope with your host Valerie

    Send a text As we close out 2025 and step into the Christmas season, Valerie offers a reflection on gratitude, hope, and the quiet, steady work of building a forever home for a child with disabilities. Through a beautiful allegory of a lantern maker, this episode reminds listeners that secure futures are not created overnight — they are built layer by layer, with clarity, consistency, and love. This episode weaves together storytelling, practical encouragement, and spiritual reflection to honour the courage of parents, caregivers, and advocates who show up every day for their children. Valerie revisits two core themes explored this fall in her Newsletter — Clarity and Consistency — and invites listeners to carry them forward into the New Year as guiding lights for their child’s future. In this episode: - A Christmas allegory illustrating how forever homes are built over time, not all at once - Why a forever home is a vision, not just a building - The role of clarity in imagining your child’s adult life before making plans - The power of consistency through small, intentional steps - How hope is built through action, not perfection - Navigating the emotional weight of the holiday season as a caregiver - Encouragement and reassurance for parents and families carrying long-term responsibility - A faith-based reflection on rest, hope, and sustaining strength - What’s coming in 2026 for the Forever Home community Key Themes: Clarity: - Starting with vision before funding, housing models, or legal structures - Asking meaningful questions about independence, safety, belonging, and purpose - Allowing yourself to imagine the future through the lens of love Consistency: - Taking one small step at a time toward your child’s future - Building momentum through gentle, repeatable actions - Trusting that steady progress creates alignment and hope Hope: - Hope as something we actively build - Seeing light even in seasons of uncertainty - Honouring every quiet effort made on behalf of your child Notable Quotes: ~ “The future is not something we enter. The future is something we create.” — Leonard Sweet ~ “Hope is being able to see that there is light despite all of the darkness.” — Desmond Tutu In the coming year, listeners can expect: - Practical guidance on housing models and forever home options - Step-by-step breakdowns of the forever home planning process  - Interviews with families actively building or living in forever homes - Conversations with planners, lawyers, designers, and support professionals - New workshops, tools, and resources designed to move families from planning into action Valerie’s goal for 2026: to help families move from thinking about a forever home for their child to building it. From my family to yours — Merry Christmas, and thank you for being part of this growing Forever Home community. Live with Intention – Embrace the Journey Connect with Valerie info@foreverhomeconsulting.ca   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) Learn more about your host at: https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/

    15 min

  8. 12/10/2025

    Empowering Families: Home Security, Mentorship, and Building a Legacy with Katie Hall

    Send a text In this episode, Valerie sits down with Katie Hall—wife, mom, Gigi, mentor to teens and young adults with disabilities, and founder of Secure Your Hive. Katie shares her journey into mentoring, how this work has shaped her life and business, and how she now helps families save on essential services and create flexible, sustainable income streams—something especially meaningful for caregivers who cannot work traditional jobs. Katie and Valerie also dive into the crucial topic of home security for forever homes, including smart-home options, safety features, and real-life considerations for families whose children may wander or require additional layers of monitoring. Key Moments: Katie’s unexpected journey into mentoring teens and young adults with differing abilities How caretaking for her sister opened her heart.The Facebook post that changed her life.Why dignity and language matter (“You are not a babysitter”).The beautiful moment when one of the teens later wrote a school paper naming Katie as her hero.How mentoring shaped Katie personally and professionally Why she intentionally uses the word mentor rather than aid.The deep relationships she’s built with the families she serves.How walking alongside one family opened doors to support many others.Flexible, home-based income for caregivers Katie breaks down: How she helps families save 30–50% on health care.Ways to reduce costs on essentials like mobile services, identity protection, and home utilities.Why service-based income can create residual earnings that grow over time.How this income can be left to your child in a trust—a financial game changer for many families.Opportunities for parents to learn, train, and build their own flexible business at home.Home security for forever homes Katie shares real, practical insights into: Smart locks, keypads, and phone app accessIndoor and outdoor cameras (and why you may choose one or the other)Door and window sensorsWhy these systems offer peace of mind for families with kids or adults who may wanderHow automation (lights, thermostats, door locks) can support safety and independenceThe security company she uses and recommends (Vivint)  Key Quote from the Episode “People say I’m changing their lives, but they’re changing mine.” – Katie   Connect with Katie Hall website: www.secureyourhive.biz  email: katie@secureyourhive.biz Text: 1-949-228-7443. (Quote Forever Home)   Thank You for Listening! Thank you for being part of the Forever Home for Our Kids with Disabilities community. Your support throughout 2025 has meant the world. If this episode encouraged you or opened your eyes to new possibilities, please share it with another parent or caregiver navigating this journey.   Connect with Valerie info@foreverhomeconsulting.ca   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) Learn more about your host at: https://coachingwithvalerieanne.com/

    25 min
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About

Formerly Special Needs Moms - Circle of Strength.  This podcast has begun a shift in focus... Hey, I’m Valerie, mom to two with disabilities (one visible, one invisible). We came up with housing solutions for our children. This space has been created to help you navigate the journey of creating a secure, sustainable forever home for your child.  We’ll chat with parents on this path, realtors, financial planners, and other experts who can make the process easier. We'll be dropping an episode twice a month. Seeing my eldest thrive living independent of us was a gift I didn’t always know I could give. I'm excited for you to have the opportunity to explore giving that gift to your child.   Keep building your child’s future!  Music acknowledgement: Audio Coffee - Denys Kyshchuk

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