Shared Horizons, Inc.

01/23/2026

https://thearc.org/blog/medicaid-work-reporting-what-does-it-mean-for-you/?utm_source=linkedin&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=advocacy&utm_term=2026-0120&utm_content=comment

Some adults with low income who get health coverage through Medicaid may need to report their work or community activities to the state in the future. Find out if Medicaid work reporting requirements might apply to you.

12/31/2025

As we welcome the New Year, we at Shared Horizons are reflecting on our incredible journey and the vital support we provide to individuals with special needs. Together, we are committed to ensuring every beneficiary has access to the resources they need. Join us in supporting this mission as we step into 2026! Read more: https://wix.to/WN8mE0H #2026

12/31/2025

Dear Friends and Families,
As we prepare for the New Year, the team at Shared Horizons would like to take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we’ve shared and the vital support we provide to individuals with special needs. The past year has been challenging yet a testament to the resilience, growth, and strength of our organization and the pooled special needs trust community.

As we step into 2026, we remain committed to our mission of ensuring that every beneficiary has access to a pooled special needs trust built to protect benefits, provide essential goods and services, and preserve assets whenever possible. Your trust in our Pooled Special Needs Trust model empowers us to strive tirelessly to enhance the quality of life for those we are honored to serve.

We extend our sincere appreciation for your ongoing partnership and unwavering support. Through our collective efforts, we can create meaningful, lasting change in the lives of those in our community.

We hope that 2026 brings abundant joy, health, and countless opportunities for everyone we cherish. Let’s embrace it with genuine enthusiasm and confidence! Together, we can create a future filled with hope and inspiring progress that uplifts us all.

Warmest wishes,

Yolanda Mazyck, CEO
and the Shared Horizons Team

Shared Horizons' mission is to help people with disabilities access affordable Special Needs Trust options that protect their benefits and preserves personal finances.

11/26/2025

As we approach this season of gratitude, our CEO, Yolanda Mazyck, has a heartfelt message to share with all of you! Let's take a moment to reflect and give thanks. Read the full message here: https://wix.to/9wVrsHS

Official Thanksgiving message from the CEO, Yolanda Mazyck

08/18/2025

This August and always, Shared Horizons commits to raising awareness and fostering community for people with a variety of needs. Discover how you can make a difference!

Read more: https://wix.to/CQ6yRvg

At Shared Horizons, we honor our mission of supporting individuals with complex needs by raising awareness and fostering community for those affected by life‑impacting conditions. August presents a unique opportunity to spotlight not one—but two—significant causes: Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA...

07/09/2025

The purpose of Pooled Special Needs Trusts (PSNTs) is to assist individuals with disabilities in maintaining government assistance eligibility while providing financial support. They must be managed by a nonprofit entity.

Local vs. National Trusts: Most PSNTs are focused on local, regional, or state populations, allowing for targeted support through familiarity with local needs. Some nonprofits operate PSNTs nationally, potentially offering more resources for transient beneficiaries.

Individualized Fund Management: Many PSNTs are now focusing on personalized fund management, creating custom spending plans tailored to each beneficiary's unique circumstances and desires.

Additional Services: Some PSNTs provide additional services, such as case management and advocacy, to help beneficiaries navigate benefits and community resources.

Key Questions for Choosing a PSNT:

Diverse Investment Opportunities: Trusts offering various investment choices help optimize fund management.

Affordable Administrative Fees: Transparency and reasonable costs in fee structures are essential to maximize funds for beneficiaries.

Expertise in Legal and Financial Matters: Skilled legal and financial teams ensure better management and compliance with laws.

Clear Communication and Accessibility: Trusts prioritizing open communication foster stronger relationships and understanding of services.

Selection Considerations: When choosing a PSNT, evaluate the beneficiary's specific needs, the trust's reputation, and the range of services offered to ensure a good fit.

Click below for the full article on my LinkedIn page:

Pooled Special Needs Trusts (PSNTs) serve people with disabilities by helping them maintain their eligibility for government assistance while providing financial support. A nonprofit entity must manage all PSNTs. Most Pooled Special Needs Trusts are Local, Regional, or state-focused Trusts. Nonprofi...

07/02/2025

As we prepare for the 4th of July and (hopefully) reflect on America's founding principles of freedom and inclusion, we must acknowledge the stark contrast between ideals and reality. Indigenous peoples faced violence and dispossession, slavery was rampant, and immigrants seeking refuge have too often been met with hardship and neglect.

Fast forward to 2025, and we still grapple with these disparities. Those in power, tasked with fostering change, often prioritize the interests of the wealthy over the well-being of marginalized communities. It's time we hold our leaders accountable and strive for a society that truly embodies freedom and equality for all. Let's amplify the voices of those who have been silenced and work together to create a more just future. ✊

07/01/2025

An analogy explaining the concept of a pooled special needs trust:

Imagine a community garden that allows various families to grow their vegetables. Each family has a plot (like a special needs trust) to cultivate their plants without worrying about losing access to shared water and resources (public assistance programs). However, to maximize the benefits of the garden, the community has also set up a larger shared plot (a Pooled Special Needs Trust) where families can contribute their seeds and gardening tools. This larger plot is managed by a dedicated nonprofit organization, which ensures that all families benefit from the pooled resources without losing their right to access the necessities provided by the community. Just as the community garden enhances individual growth while maintaining access to essential support, the Pooled Special Needs Trust allows individuals to benefit from investments that may yield greater returns while receiving necessary public assistance.

06/27/2025

A world that embraces diversity thrives on its differences. Individuals with disabilities often face challenges that can limit their opportunities for a fulfilling life. A Pooled Special Needs Trust (PSNT) can enhance their quality of life by providing financial security, promoting independence, and fostering community engagement.

Firstly, a Pooled Special Needs Trust offers financial security, allowing individuals to obtain life-enhancing goods and services without losing access to government benefits. For example, a PSNT enables individuals to set aside funds for personal care and medical expenses while still receiving support from programs like Medicaid and SSI. This protection empowers individuals to access necessary resources and make choices that improve their daily lives.

Moreover, a PSNT promotes independence by allowing individuals to manage their funds and make decisions about their care. This autonomy can lead to pursuing education or hobbies that bring joy. For instance, a young adult with a disability can use PSNT funds to enroll in art classes, fostering confidence and self-esteem.

Additionally, a Pooled Special Needs Trust encourages community engagement. It provides resources for social programs, helping individuals participate in events or activities that reduce isolation. For example, a trust can fund transportation to local events or assist with fees for clubs or classes, enhancing overall well-being.

In conclusion, a Pooled Special Needs Trust significantly improves the quality of life for people with disabilities by ensuring financial security, fostering independence, and encouraging community engagement. Advocating for these trusts is essential to create an inclusive environment where individuals can thrive.

Please feel free to contact our office for more information by calling 202-448-1460. In the meantime, you can also visit our website at www.shared-horizons.org.

05/05/2025

This May, we shine a light on Arthritis and Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month. At Shared Horizons, we're dedicated to empowering people with disabilities to live with dignity and independence. Read more here -> https://wix.to/5ct6J3T

At Shared Horizons, our mission is rooted in empowering individuals with disabilities to live with dignity, independence, and peace of mind. This May, during Arthritis Awareness Month and Cystic Fibrosis Awareness Month, we stand with our beneficiaries, their families, and communities in raising awa...

04/23/2025

Important changes from the Social Security Administration that could impact you or your loved ones! Stay informed and empowered. Read more here: https://wix.to/knXZ8tu