CalABLE December Newsletter

Thomas Martin,

CalABLE Executive Director

This month marks 10 years since the federal ABLE Act was signed, and 6 years since the first CalABLE accounts were opened. In that time, ABLE programs have done great things for our community. Just last week, CalABLE reached 13,000 accounts! That’s 13,000 people who have a little more flexibility and a little more independence because of CalABLE.

This year, CalABLE continued to grow and evolve. 2,500 more people opened accounts for themselves or someone they care about. Not only did account holders pass $150 million in collective savings this year, but we will reach $170 million in the coming days. The platform received a number of visible and behind-the-scenes improvements, like a more streamlined enrollment process, better website information, and a mobile app, available for iOS and Android. We also created a forward-thinking strategic plan that will help the Program connect with more people with disabilities.

Next year, we have even more improvements in mind, and even more goals for us to reach for – including expanded support for languages besides English, text message account notifications, and the ability for multiple people to access a loved one’s account. We will continue to grow and evolve, because that’s what the disability community deserves.

Thank you for being a part of the CalABLE family. Whether you have an account of your own, support a loved one with their account, and/or are helping spread the message about CalABLE, thank you for your support for our community.

Happy holidays, and hope you have a great 2025.

Checks must be received and be in good order by Tuesday, December 31, 2024, and electronic contributions via linked bank accounts must be entered by 1 pm PT on Monday, December 30, 2024.

December 24: Customer Service Center closes at 11 AM PT

December 25: Customer Service Center closed

December 31: Customer Service Center closes at 2 PM PT

January 1: Customer Service Center closed

You can reach the Customer Service Center at 833-225-2253. Our regular hours are Monday - Friday from 6 AM - 5 PM PT. We apologize for any inconvenience caused by our holiday hours.

Tianni:

"This year has been a significant milestone for me as I successfully hit my savings goal while ensuring that I don't lose any of my benefits. One of my proudest purchases was a Sure Hand built-in Hoyer lift, which has made a big difference in my daily life. Additionally, I became a member of the Kappa Honors Society, which recognizes my hard work and dedication in my studies. Thanks to my CalABLE account, I can save effectively while attending school full time, and I also use it for essential home repairs as a homeowner. Looking ahead, I'm excited to share that I've already started planning my 30th birthday celebration abroad next year, which I can't wait to experience!"

Tyler:

Tyler plays golf and won silver in the Special Olympics National Fall Games!

Congratulations, Tyler!

Check out Tyler's website.

Jennifer:

"My two biggest accomplishment this year: celebrating my 36th birthday with friends at the Griffith Park Observatory, AND I have lost over 70-75 pounds, with me losing 57 pounds of those pounds MYSELF before starting the new diabetic medication to work on reversing the issue (formal Type 2 diagnosis given during the late summer). Exercising and extended walking every single day, monitoring food intake, and rebuilding my endurance as proactively as possible has knocked me down two to three dress sizes. Friends now want to gift me money through CalABLE every month to buy new clothing for staying on track!"

Adrienne (ALR) and her sister Allison:

"Woo Hoo! We celebrated Allison’s 50th birthday in Baton Rouge, Louisiana."

Happy Birthday, Allison!

Otto:

"I just wanted to share the greatest gift of 2024 is the peace of mind my CalABLE account gives my brothers. Siblings are the unsung heroes in many families and knowing I am growing wealth and a financial safety net lets them rest a little easier at night. They are my loudest cheerleaders and fiercest supporters.

CalABLE accounts impact an entire family!"

Thank you, Raymond and Charles, for providing testimonials at CalABLE's December Board Meeting!

CalABLE would like to recognize Board Member Joe Xavier and his delegate Ana Acton for their service to the CalABLE Board.

We are so appreciative of the guidance and unique perspectives you both brought to CalABLE over the years. Together, you have helped CalABLE become even better for people with disabilities. You will both be missed in 2025, but we know that you will continue to advocate for social justice, accessibility, and equity throughout California!