Blog Post

Supporting the American Dream for all

Author: Kelly Nye-Lengerman, Research Associate, University of Minnesota, Institute on Community Integration, Research...

April is National Autism Awareness Month: A Belated Bar Mitzvah Gift for My Son

Author: Stuart Spielman, Autism Speaks Senior Policy Advisor and Counsel and father to a son with autism

It’s been almost ten...

Addressing Your Enable Questions for Financial Literacy Month

April is National Financial Literacy Month, a month dedicated to educating Americans on monetary concepts and skills.

With the growth of the...

Meet Terry Severson—What I’ve learned about the Enable Community

Author: Terry Severson, Director, Savings Plans Marketing, First National Bank of Omaha

My name is Terry Severson, and I am...

An Update on ABLE 2.0: Bipartisan Legislation to Enhance ABLE Accounts

Amelis Long, Enable Outreach Specialist, First National Bank of Omaha

A bipartisan group of lawmakers in the U.S. Senate and the House of Representatives...

Next month is Enable Savings Plan’s 1-year anniversary! Take a look at how we’ve grown in our first year.

Author: Rachel Biar, Assistant State Treasurer  

Time truly does fly—I can’t believe the Enable Savings Plan is turning one...

Sending Warm Wishes to All the Enable Mothers this Mother’s Day

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank

Every year as Mother’s Day approaches, I feel an immense...

This Week is Global Accessibility Awareness Day (May 18)

Author: Joanna Swanson, Head of Direct Sales, First National Bank of Omaha

In today’s day and age, almost everything can now be accessed...

Macy’s Story

Author: Sherri Harnisch, President, Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands

My daughter is brave. I wish I were half as brave as she. I have...

December 19, 2014 – An Important Day in The Lives of Many

Author: Sherri Harnisch, President, Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands

Our daughter, Macy, has been to Capitol...

What’s New with the First Enable Savings Plan Account Owner?

Author: Jacob Gehringer 

This Sunday is Father's Day - Thank You to All the Enable Fathers!

Author: Treasurer Don Stenberg 

Summer Savings Tips

Author: Joanna Swanson, Head of Direct Sales, First National Bank of Omaha

Happy first day of summer! Here at Enable, we hope your summer is...

A Note From Nebraska State Treasurer Don Stenberg - One Year After Enable’s Launch

Author: Treasurer Don Stenberg  

One thing is for sure about the Enable Savings Plan’s first year. It’s gone by fast.

Happy Fourth of July

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

On behalf of the entire Enable team, we want to wish you and your families a safe and happy Fourth of July! Put an extra spark in your Enable Savings Plan to help celebrate the holiday.

Savoring the Last Moments of Summer at Your Local Fair or Festival

August 15^th, 2017
Author: Amelis Long, Enable Outreach Specialist, First National Bank of Omaha
 

Despite the soaring temperatures, I live for summer!   

Starting My Own Life

Author: Addison Jordan

Hi, I’m Addie. I’m 22 ½ years old and I have Down syndrome. That half really is important to me because it means I'm getting older and becoming more mature.

Back to School with Enable Savings

Author: Terry Severson, Director, Savings Plans Marketing, First National Bank of Omaha

It’s that time of year again—summer is ending...

September is National Service Dog Month: Facts About Man's Best Helper

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank

Dogs have long been affectionately referred to as “man’s...

October is Disability Employment Awareness Month

Author: Jennifer Papproth, Corrections Program Director, Nebraska VR

National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) is right around...

This Friday is World Cerebral Palsy Day: Q&A with United Cerebral Palsy of Nebraska

Author: Amelis Long, Enable Outreach Specialist, First National Bank of Omaha

World Cerebral Palsy Day will be recognized around the globe this...

October is Down Syndrome Awareness Month: Celebrating the Down Syndrome Community

Author: Terry Severson, Director, Savings Plans Marketing, First National Bank of Omaha

Something that recently caught my attention is the National...

November is Epilepsy Awareness Month: Q&A with the Epilepsy Foundation

Author: Joanna Swanson, Head of Direct Sales, First National Bank of Omaha

The month of November is designated as National Epilepsy Awareness Month, which poses an opportunity to educate the public about epilepsy and shed an important light on the epilepsy community. 

Giving Thanks for the Ability to Save

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank

With Thanksgiving two short days away, I have not only been pining to gather with my family, but I’ve also been reflecting on the many things, people, and experiences I am thankful for.

This Holiday Season, Consider the Gift of Financial Independence

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank

With the hectic holiday season operating in full swing, the clock is ticking for finding the perfect gift.

Enable 2017: A Year in Review

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank

One of my favorite sayings has always been “Celebrate what you accomplish, but raise the bar each time you succeed.”

January is Braille Literacy Month: Promoting Independence in the Visual Impairment Community

Author: Joanna Swanson, Head of Direct Sales, First National Bank of Omaha

As we begin a new year at Enable, we are working harder than ever toward our goal of improving lives...

Spreading the Love this Valentine’s Day with Enable

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

My love for non-profit organizations began when I started my career at First National Bank in 1994. It was immediately impressed upon us that making a difference in our community and in the lives of others is the true measure of “success.”

Q&A with the CHI Health Immanuel Rehabilitation Institute-Paralympic Sport Omaha

Q&A with the CHI Health Immanuel Rehabilitation Institute-Paralympic Sport Omaha
February 27, 2018
With the 2018 Winter Paralympics right around the corner, the Enable team is not only excited to see the Games, but also the inspiring messages it perpetuates...
 

March 21st is World Down Syndrome Day: A Glimpse into the Supportive and Loving Down Syndrome Community

Author: Kevin Miller, Senior Advisor, Wholesale Banking, First National Bank of Omaha

I find it difficult to believe that it has already been 10 years since receiving the Down syndrome diagnosis of our youngest daughter, Ashtin. 

Recognizing National MS Education and Awareness Month

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

March is Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month (MS), a time centered on raising awareness for the 2.3 million people with MS worldwide, illuminating research efforts, and working to spread hope and support for those affected.

April Is Occupational Therapy Month: Learning About the Benefits of OT

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

For those who may be unfamiliar, occupational therapy (OT) is a form of treatment intended to help individuals maximize their independence by improving, recovering, developing, and maintaining the skills needed for daily living.

April is National Autism Awareness Month: Q&A with the Autism Society of Nebraska

In light of April being National Autism Awareness Month, we spoke with the Autism Society of Nebraska for an inside look at one of the local organizations making a difference in the autism community.

Celebrating the Joy of Motherhood: Anna’s Story

Author: Lisa Harbin

I consider it a great privilege to be writing this blog about motherhood in honor of Mother's Day. Anna, after all, is the gift that made me a mom!

Summer Fun for Every Ability

Author: Joanna Swanson, Head of Direct Sales, First National Bank of Omaha

One exciting way to make the most of summertime is to enroll in a summer camp or program, opening up a host of opportunities to try something different, form friendships and build new skills.

Humanitarian Spotlight: Helen Keller

Author: Terry Severson, Director, Savings Plans Marketing, First National Bank of Omaha

Here at Enable, we believe that anything is possible, and that opportunities should be afforded to individuals of all abilities.

Guest Blog: Melissa Giersch on What Special Olympics Means to Her

Guest Blog: Melissa Giersch on What Special Olympics Means to Her

I have been part of the Special Olympics since I was 5 years old. My most memorable experience in the Special Olympics was the 1999 World Games in North Carolina.

Celebrating Financial Freedom on Independence Day

Author: Kim Bainbridge

Happy 4th of July! As Americans, we celebrate our rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. Those of us who are in the disability community now can also celebrate the right to save money.

Celebrating the 28th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

July marks the 28th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.

Answering Common Questions from Our Account Owners

Author: Vicki Sleder, Marketing Associate, Savings Plans Marketing, First National Bank

Whether you’re a brand-new account owner or are considering opening up an account, chances are you have questions about the Enable Savings Plan.

Celebrate Family Fun Month with These Summer Activities

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

In honor of August being Family Fun Month, we compiled some of our favorite ideas that are both accessible and entertaining.

Next Week Kicks off National Service Dog Month: Q&A with Domesti-PUPS

In honor of National Service Dog Month this September we spoke with Domesti-PUPS, a Nebraska-based service dog organization, about their work with our furry friends and the disability community.

Disability Organization Spotlight: Q&A with the Arc of Nebraska

We spoke with Edison McDonald, executive director of The Arc of Nebraska, a local disability advocacy group. Edison shed light on the organization's goals and discussed the many ways that the Arc of Nebraska serves individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

Celebrate the 30th National Disability Employment Awareness Month this October

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

How do you create a labor force abundant in potential for advancement and innovation?

You make room for opportunity and allow for diverse perspectives to shape the future.

Disability Organization Spotlight: Q&A with the Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska

We recently sat down with Jodi White, Program Director of the Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska (DSAF), to learn more about the organization’s accomplishments and goals.

Don’t Be Tricked by These Common Enable Myths

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

To shed light on some of the most common Enable Savings Plan questions, we pulled together some tips that will alleviate your most haunting fears. 

The ABLE Act is Turning 4: A Recap

Author: Terry Severson, Director of Marketing, First National Bank

We’re wishing a very happy birthday to the ABLE Act, which turns four this year.

Why I’m Thankful for Enable

Author: Don Stenberg, Nebraska State Treasurer

Nearing the end of my tenure as Nebraska State Treasurer, I have the opportunity to step back, reflect on the accomplishments of the past eight years and give thanks. In particular, I am thankful for the Enable Savings Plan and the economic independence it offers Nebraskans with disabilities.

Enable Celebrates the 70th Anniversary of International Human Rights Day

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

Our goal at Enable is to ensure that every individual with disabilities has access to financial security and independence, so that our account owners are empowered to live their best lives and be their best selves.

Looking Back at the Enable Savings Plan’s 2018 Milestones

Author: Rachel Biar, Assistant State Treasurer, Director of Enable

As one of the first national ABLE savings plans offered in the United States, Enable’s impact has touched the lives of individuals with disabilities far and wide, and I am proud of the continued success and improvements that we have demonstrated in 2018.  

New Year, New Ways to Save: A Message from the Enable Team

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

This coming year, we want to encourage all of our account owners to stick to their short- and long-term savings goals by following a few pieces of simple advice.

Keep Up with Your Resolutions to Save

Author: Terry Severson, Director of Marketing, First National Bank

While we at Enable are confident that you can do whatever it is you set your mind to in the coming year, know that you’re not alone if you encounter some obstacles while trying to achieve your savings goals in 2019.

The ABC’s of the Enable Savings Plan

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist, First National Bank of Omaha

From building your savings to managing your finances, the Enable team is here to help you get the most out of your account. To keep you informed about all things Enable we’ve created a list of Enable ABC’s – because understanding key terms should be as easy as 1, 2, 3.

What I Love About Enable

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

I’ve found a community with the Enable Savings Plan. Since joining First National Bank of Omaha as the Enable Outreach Specialist in 2017, I’ve had the pleasure of working closely with our Account Owners and partners to develop relationships that extend beyond discussions of finances and savings.

Tax Reform Refresher

Author: Terry Severson, Director of Marketing, First National Bank

The Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act was passed in 2014 to better provide individuals and families with a tax-deferred savings option for qualified disability-related expenses. As a refresher, the following tax reforms affecting ABLE accounts have provided Enable Savings Plan Account Owners with added flexibility.

Answering Common Account Owner Questions

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

Knowledge is power—especially when it comes to your savings journey. The most successful monetary strategies are those grounded in a comprehensive understanding of what your choices are and how you can utilize your savings plan to maximize your potential for growth.

Disability Organization Spotlight: Q&A with Best Buddies

Author: Ryan Wirth, Deputy Director, Expansion Programs, Best Buddies

We sat down with Ryan Wirth, Deputy Director, Expansion Programs for nationwide disability organization Best Buddies to learn more about how they support the disability community.

Financial Literacy Month: Tips to Better Navigate your Finances

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

When it comes to saving and planning for disability-related expenses, financial literacy is an integral part of the journey. In honor of April’s Financial Literacy Month, we drew up a plan of action to help Account Owners navigate their finances with even greater confidence.

Why Enable Accounts are an Important Element of Disability Inclusion

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

From well-rounded employee recruitment processes to accessible commuter transportation options for people of all abilities, disability inclusion creates a better standard of living for us all. At its core, disability inclusion means access—that is, access to the same opportunities and activities that those without disabilities are privy to.

Motherhood – A Beautiful Journey

Author: Mary Sweeney, Marketing and Development Director, Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska

On March 17, 2014, our beautiful son Henry Lucas Sweeney was born. It was the evening of St. Patrick’s Day, we had green shamrock lights hung in the labor and delivery room and Dancing with the Stars was playing on the TV in the background. Family was waiting just down the hall for the exciting news of whether we had a baby boy or baby girl.

Enable’s Top Five Tips for Smart Summer Finances

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

Spending can often increase in the summer months, and forethought and planning are key tools to keep you on budget and worry-free. To help you coast through the summer, we’re sharing our top five strategies for smart summer spending:

Parent’s Perspective: Why the Enable Savings Plan is So Important to Me

Author: Leah Janke, Executive Director, Down Syndrome Alliance of the Midlands

When I first found out about the passage of the Stephen Beck, Jr. Achieving a Better Life Experience Act of 2014 (better known as the ABLE Act), I was ecstatic. I was thrilled for the disability world, for the national Down syndrome groups who had become the face of the campaign, and for my son – who could now have a savings account in his name.

A Celebration of Financial Independence

Author: Nebraska State Treasurer John Murante

Independence Day celebrates what makes this nation so special. It is a time for individuals from coast to coast to appreciate the freedoms that those before them have secured, as well as look towards the future to discover how we can expand those freedoms and build upon our independence. On the third anniversary of the Enable Savings Plan, I can’t think of a better time to celebrate financial independence, a freedom every individual deserves.

Celebrating Disability Pride with Autism Society of Nebraska

Author: Kevin Mahler, Director of Development, Autism Society of Nebraska

Autism Society of Nebraska seeks to build pride among people on the spectrum by promoting the three "A"s-Awareness, Acceptance and Autonomy.

Honoring the 29th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act

Author: Nebraska State Treasurer John Murante

Though it seems like a given that individuals with disabilities ought to have the same rights and opportunities as everyone else, discrimination based on ability was not federally illegal until the passage of the ADA in 1990. Prior to 1990, accessible parking spaces were few and far between, restaurants, business and recreational areas were not accessible and sensory impairments often went overlooked and unaccommodated.

National Simplify Your Life Week: How to Simplify Your Savings

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

It can often be easy to get caught up in the hubbub of the everyday, and forget to keep the big picture in mind. But National Simplify Your Life Week is a reminder to do just that – take a break from all the commotion, evaluate your options and use the features and tools Enable offers to make life a little easier. Taking a moment to focus on your Enable Savings Plan account is a great way to start. 

Answering Common Account Owner Questions

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

Our mission at Enable is to make our Account Owners’ savings journey as simple and transparent as possible. To help you stay on track with your savings goals and keep you informed about your account, we’ve highlighted a few of the most common questions we receive from Account Owners.

ABLE to Work Act: Bringing Disability Inclusion to Labor Day

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

At Enable, our job is to help individuals with disabilities save for qualified expenses, providing a path to financial independence and opening doors to disability inclusion. This Labor Day we are celebrating these efforts, and the many benefits that Enable provides for individuals with disabilities in the workforce and beyond.

National Preparedness Month: Four Tips for Financial Success

Author: Terry Severson, Director of Marketing, First National Bank

September is National Preparedness Month, and here at the Enable Savings Plan we are doing our part to help ensure you are prepared when it comes to your finances. Read on for our favorite tips to help keep you accountable and set you up for financial success in the long term.

Enable video blogs are here!

In the first episode we ask: what is ABLE to Work, and what can it offer Enable Account Owners? Join Enable Outreach Specialist Diane Stewart as she discusses these questions and more.

Take Advantage of the Enable New Account Bonus

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

If you're new to the Enable Savings Plan community, welcome! The second annual Enable New Account Bonus Program kicks off this fall, and there's no better time to learn more about the Plan's many benefits. Read on for everything you need to know about the bonus, and about saving with Enable.

Spina Bifida Awareness Month: Q&A with Nebraska Spina Bifida

Author: Nia Karmann, President, Nebraska Spina Bifida

To celebrate Spina Bifida Awareness Month this October, we reached out to Nia Karmann, President of Nebraska Spina Bifida, to learn more about how she and her colleagues support the disability community through programming, financial support and spreading awareness about spina bifida. Read on to learn more about their organization.
 

Community Matters

Find and join communities of people who share and support each other throughout their journeys.

Tips to Better Manage Your Enable Account

Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

Since founding the Enable Savings Plan, our goal has been to provide individuals with disabilities and their families with a reliable and easy-to-use savings option. To support this mission, Enable offers a host of relevant and simple tools that Account Owners can use to optimize their savings experience.

Thankful for Enable

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

It is gratifying and energizing to hear what Enable can do for so many people, each with unique needs, goals and plans for the future. With Thanksgiving fast approaching, I am delighted to share just a few of the reasons why I and so many Account Owners are thankful for Enable.

Gift Giving with Enable Savings Plan

Gifting into an Enable Savings Plan is the one size fits all gift that allows the account owner the ability to choose how your generous contribution can best benefit their life. Give today!

End of Year Checklist: Gifting & Tax Advantages

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

Before this 2020 planning begins in earnest, we at Enable encourage you to take a moment to focus on the last few weeks of 2019. In today's blog, we provide an end of year checklist to help make sure you're getting the most out of your Enable Savings Plan account-both today and for years to come.

Ways to Use Your Enable Account This Winter

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

Winter is my favorite time of year - from holiday celebrations to family gatherings, there is lots to celebrate. As you start your winter planning, keep in mind that many of your seasonal expenses may be considered a qualified Enable Savings Plan account withdrawal, so consider putting your funds towards the various approved uses. Qualified Disability Expenses include basic living expenses and are not limited to items for which there is a medical necessity or which solely benefit a disabled individual.

End of Year Recap

Author: Nebraska State Treasurer John Murante

As the close of the year draws near, we find ourselves looking back at 2019-the milestones we reached (1400 Enable Accounts), the friends we supported (Go Homer's Heroes!) and the savings opportunities, like the Enable New Account Bonus Program, that helped this community grow-all while looking ahead to 2020.

The 2020 Enable Savings Plan Financial Checkup

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

As we begin 2020, now is the perfect opportunity to make a plan and get your finances in order. Simple strategies can be an effective way to ensure financial success for the year to come, and there's no better time to enact these financial resolutions than at the start of the year.

Small Strategies to Achieve Big Savings

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plan, First National Bank of Omaha

Saving for the future can often be a challenge, especially when it feels like every cent is already accounted for. But your savings don't always have to feel like a compromise - even small measures can help maximize your savings over time. In today's blog we explore Enable's top strategies to cut spending and foster more frugal habits. Try them out, and you may soon find new room in your budget for saving.

What I Love about Enable

Author: Julie Anderson, Mother of an Enable Account Owner

When my son Joe was born in 1996 with spina bifida, I had no clue how much I was about to learn. Luckily, we had an awesome Early Intervention coordinator who helped us through the early years.

International Wheelchair Day: Resources to Consider

Author: Terry Severson, Director, Savings Plans Marketing, First National Bank of Omaha

International Wheelchair Day is on the horizon. The annual awareness day on March 1st serves as a global celebration of the positive impact wheelchairs have on the lives of individuals with disabilities. In honor of this awareness day, Enable has put together some tips to benefit our Account Owners who use wheelchairs.

Enable Good News Corner- Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

Worldwide, there are an estimated 17 million individuals with cerebral palsy. With March being Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month, we'd like to use this opportunity to highlight a few inspiring individuals who are making headlines and bringing joy to their communities.

Celebrating World Down Syndrome Day

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

In celebration of World Down Syndrome Day, Enable is proud to celebrate the incredible accomplishments of such a diverse, driven and joyful community. Read on for some of our favorite recent highlights, and 'Like' us on Facebook @EnableSavingsPlan for more uplifting stories!

Tax Advantages of Enable Contributions

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

Unlike a standard savings account, an Enable account offers a number of benefits tailored to the unique financial needs of individuals with disabilities. Most importantly, Enable funds are not counted when calculating eligibility for resource-based benefits such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI). However, that's far from the only benefit of saving with Enable.

Spring Cleaning: Savings Edition

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

In celebration of Financial Literacy Month, we explore easy ways to maximize your savings by inspiring some 'spring cleaning' energy into your financial life. Read on for a few simple yet beneficial ways to organize and simplify your finances.

Celebrating Autism Awareness Month with Autism Society of Nebraska

Author: Kevin Mahler, Director of Development, Autism Society of Nebraska

Last summer, we had the pleasure of featuring Kevin Mahler, Director of Development at Autism Society of Nebraska on the Enable blog. His post celebrated disability pride and highlighted some of Autism Society of Nebraska's recent work. In honor of April's Autism Awareness Month, we are thrilled to feature an update from Kevin about his organization and to raise visibility for their work in the community.

Celebrating Mothers in the Enable Community

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

In honor of Mother's Day we are proud to celebrate the loving, driven and exuberant parents within the Enable Savings Plan community - each of whom are committed to helping their child achieve financial stability and independence. Read on for excerpts from a few of these exceptional moms!

National Recommitment Month: Financial Focus

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans

Have you been sticking to your 2020 budget and making smart financial decisions? If not, don't panic - it's not too late to get back on track. This May is National Recommitment Month, which serves as a great opportunity to 'recommit' to your finances. Read on to read a checklist to help you stay on track.

The Enable Savings Plan: Celebrating Four Years

Author: Nebraska State Treasurer John Murante

On June 30, 2016 my predecessor Treasurer Don Stenberg, Nebraska Lieutenant Governor Mike Foley, Nebraska Senator Kate Bolz, representatives from the First National Bank of Omaha and around 450 members of the disability community gathered at Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium in Omaha to celebrate the official launch of the Enable Savings Plan. An innovative new program, Enable was one of the first tax-advantaged savings plans for individuals with disabilities offered in the country.

Answering Common Account Owner Questions

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

Are you a current or potential Account Owner? If so, we encourage you to stay up to date about all things Enable – including costs and management fees related to your account. To help you stay informed, we answered some of the most common questions we receive from our Account Owners. Read on to learn more.

On the Path to Financial Independence with the Enable Savings Plan

Author: Nebraska State Treasurer John Murante

As I think back on this past weekend's Fourth of July festivities, and the celebration of the independence of our nation, I feel so grateful to have such wonderful friends and family to celebrate with, even while social distancing. Being an American means access to vital freedoms including but not limited to freedom of speech, freedom of religion to freedom of expression. Important among those is one freedom I hold close to my heart as Nebraska State Treasurer: financial freedom.

Celebrating the Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

This July marks the 30th Anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), a civil rights law that is fundamental in ensuring equality in all areas of public life for individuals with disabilities across the country.

Are You Using These Smart Savings Tips?

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

In times of economic uncertainty, sticking to your savings goals can become more challenging. Luckily, there are many tactics that Enable Account Owners can implement to help stabilize and boost savings, no matter one's financial situation. To help get on track, start with these smart savings tips.

Celebrating the Strength of Our Community with Special Olympics Nebraska

Author: Erin Stoll, Major Gifts Officer, Special Olympics Nebraska

At Enable, we are driven by a commitment to our Account Owners' wellbeing and success through financial independence. By working together with other organizations and advocates in the disability community, we are able to support both our mission and those of our partners - coming together to create a strong and vibrant community for all.

Our partnership with Special Olympics Nebraska is a perfect example of these wonderful partnerships.

Q&A with Down Syndrome Advocates in Action Nebraska

Author: Deb Safarik, President, Down Syndrome Advocates in Action Nebraska

The Enable Savings Plan is thrilled to celebrate the amazing organizations making a difference in our community. For this blog, we reached out to Deb Safarik, the President of Down Syndrome Advocates in Action Nebraska (DSAA) to highlight the work that they are doing to support individuals with Down syndrome in Nebraska.

Savings Habits to "Fall" Back on

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

Looking to improve upon your current savings? There are many simple yet effective measures you can implement into your everyday life to help maximize your finances. Even for those who consider themselves as expert savers, there are always additional ways to help further your savings goals.

All the Best Superheroes are Adopted

Author: Mary Sweeney, Marketing and Development Director, Down Syndrome Association for Families of Nebraska and Melanie Kirk

Every day the Enable Savings Plan team is grateful for and motivated by our community of Account Owners and their loved ones. We cherish every opportunity to highlight stories from our community, and today we are delighted to share a conversation between two fantastic leaders and moms, who discuss their stories and the importance of saving for disability-related expenses. To read more about Melanie's story, and for other great resources, visit the Down Syndrome Association for Families blog.

Down Syndrome Awareness Month: Great Resources to Utilize

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

Happy Down Syndrome Awareness Month! This month serves as a global celebration of individuals with Down syndrome, and the positive impact they have on their families and communities.

In celebration of this month, Enable has put together some tips to benefit our Account Owners with Down syndrome. Read on to learn more:

Spooky Financial Myths

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

With Halloween right around the corner, haunting season is in full swing. However, when it comes to your finances, we are here to assure you there are no tricks - only treats ahead - when it comes to achieving financial independence.

Holiday Shopping Guide for the Savvy Saver

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

From Thanksgiving through the holiday season, there are no shortage of festive occasions between now and the end of the year. While the holidays may look a bit different this year due to the impact of the pandemic, there is still a way to make everyone feel special on your list, and make this holiday season one to remember. To help spread the holiday cheer, we've put together some tips for consideration to help improve your holiday shopping experience and help keep your budget on track.

Holiday Gifting: The Gift of Financial Independence

Author: Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

More than ever, this year has emphasized what truly matters: family, friends and community support. As we kick off the holiday season, your loved ones may be in search of a gift that communicates how deeply they care for their friends and family with disabilities.

Tax Advantages of Enable Accounts

Author: Deborah Goodkin, Managing Director, Savings Plans, First National Bank of Omaha

As we close upon the calendar year, now is the perfect opportunity to reflect on one's savings progress and begin to plan out financial goals for 2021 and beyond.

Celebrating the Enable Community

Nebraska State Treasurer John Murante

To celebrate our community this season, give a cheer to the amazing organizations and members of the Nebraska disability community. Read on for my favorite excerpts from our blog to learn about what brings them strength and joy:

A Message from the Enable Team: Financial Resolution Refresh

Nebraska State Treasurer John Murante

The start of the year brings a sense of excitement, renewed motivation and the chance to put the unprecedented events of 2020 behind us. To help kick off the year on the right note we've assembled three simple New Year's resolutions that will help Account Owners revitalize their savings journey and boost progress for the months and years to come. Read on for more details!

Money Savings Tips to Try in 2021

Rachel Biar, Assistant State Treasurer, Director of Enable

The beginning of the year is the perfect time to create better savings goals, and form long lasting habits for success. Not sure where to begin? To help make the most out of your savings this year, we've put together a few of our recommended money savings tips for Account Owners to implement into their routines.

Community Spotlight: PTI Nebraska

Nina Baker, Parent Specialist, Parent Training & Information Nebraska

The Enable Savings Plan understands the incredible value of community support and empowerment - particularly for individuals with disabilities and their families. We are proud to use our platform to uplift voices and raise awareness of services in our community, while providing a clear and accessible path to financial independence. On today's blog, learn more about PTI Nebraska, one of the organizations making a big difference for families in our area.

Great Resources for Individuals with Disabilities

Great Resources for Individuals with Disabilities February 16, 2021 Kendra Werth, Assistant Director of Enable

One of my favorite things about Enable is seeing firsthand the strong connections and support within the local disability community. It's always rewarding to hear from our Account Owners, and learn their inspiring stories as they navigate their savings journeys.

March Madness: Enable Myth Buster

Rachel Biar, Assistant State Treasurer, Director of Enable

From new Account Owners to seasoned savers, no matter where one is in the savings process, questions and ideas will always arise. To help you gain clarity and make the best choices for your savings, this blog addresses common misperceptions related to the Enable Savings Plan.

Q&A with D.A.D.S. Omaha

J.J. Arcishewsky, Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome Omahadid

World Down Syndrome Day is this weekend, and the Enable team is taking time to reflect on the strength and vibrancy of the Down syndrome community both at a local level and nationwide. One of those community pillars is Dads Appreciating Down Syndrome Omaha (D.A.D.S. Omaha) - who have been doing important work for over 12 years!

Spring Forward Your Savings Strategy

Rachel Biar, Assistant State Treasurer, Director of Enable

Spring has officially sprung! Not only is it my favorite season, but it also serves as the perfect opportunity to do some spring cleaning and organizing - especially when it comes to one's finances. To help boost your savings, check out Enable's top tips:

Celebrating Awareness and Acceptance with Autism Society of Nebraska

Robyn Roberts, Treasurer, Autism Society of Nebraska

Every year, the month of April is an opportunity to come together and raise autism awareness. In an exciting update, this year advocates are expanding the scope to include acceptance and autonomy, two key considerations for the community and an exciting step forward in the disability movement.

How to Be an Advocate of the Enable Savings Plan

How to Be an Advocate of the Enable Savings Plan April 27, 2021 Diane Stewart, Enable Outreach Specialist

Did you know that according to the National Association of State Treasurers, fewer than 5% of individuals who are eligible for ABLE accounts like the Enable Savings Plan take advantage of this valuable financial resource?