Despite a history of mental illness and substance abuse, 59-year-old Geoffrey has been able to achieve what once seemed an unthinkable gift: independence.

Sixteen years earlier, his parents established a community trust with UJA through its Planned Giving and Endowments department. One of our “best-kept secrets,” community trusts allow family members to put aside funds to be used for the lifetime care of their loved ones after they are no longer able to help them themselves, giving them the much-needed reassurance that comes with knowing that their child will not be alone when they can’t be there for them.

The funds are administered by UJA, whose partners or grantees ensure that the trust beneficiaries are connected with a wide range of services throughout their lifetimes. Today, there are over 200 beneficiaries of UJA community trusts.

UJA connected Geoffrey with our partner OHEL Children’s Home and Family Service, to help him access essential services.

For 18 years, as a result of his health and abuse issues, Geoffrey resided in an adult home in Queens, where his meals, laundry, housekeeping, medications, and medical appointments were all taken care of for him. A bright spot in his life was his girlfriend, who lived there as well. Though he desperately wanted to move out on his own, he knew he couldn’t leave her behind. Sadly, in 2023, after 17 years together, she passed away. 

Geoffrey began dreaming of moving into his own place, though his OHEL advocate, Michelle Sherman, had concerns about whether he would be able to take care of his basic needs — specifically, managing money and medication, eating properly, doing laundry, and keeping his apartment in order. Michelle connected with him an agency that could help him meet those needs.

Another goal of Geoffrey’s was owning a car. Though he had a license, he hadn’t driven in more than 20 years. His OHEL advocate helped connect him with lessons, and after several months, Geoffrey bought a car of his own.    

Today, at home or on the road, Geoffrey is living the independent life he has looked forward to for so long.    

For information on establishing a community trust through UJA, please contact Irina Tuchina at 212.836.1150 or .