Kevin Hayde, Executive Director of Wispact – Empowering Impact: Best Practices in Charitable Giving for Pooled Trusts
Kevin Hayde, Executive Director of Wispact, Inc., presented virtually through the Stetson University Special Needs Trust Conference, showcasing the impactful work of Wispact in the realm of charitable giving for individuals with disabilities. The session, titled “Empowering Impact: Best Practices in Charitable Giving for Pooled Trusts,” highlights how strategic management of retained funds can transform lives and strengthen communities.
A Leader in Disability Advocacy
Kevin Hayde, Executive Director, Wispact, Inc. has been an advocate for individuals with disabilities for over three decades. Since joining Wispact in 2017, Kevin and staff have enhanced Wispact’s Retained Fund program, fostering its growth and expanding its reach across Wisconsin.
Understanding Retained Funds: A Pathway to Philanthropy
The cornerstone of the presentation is the effective utilization of retained funds—assets remaining in the accounts of deceased beneficiaries of pooled special needs trusts. These funds, governed under federal law (42 U.S.C. § 1396p(d)(4)(C)), play a critical role in supporting Medicaid payback requirements while also providing a financial cushion for nonprofit organizations through the Wispact Foundation Legacy Grant program.
Wispact’s Retained Fund Program: Making a Difference
Wispact has developed a robust Retained Fund program, guided by a dedicated committee that ensures funds are used effectively and in compliance with regulations. Wispact’s grants have supported a wide range of support, from dental care and assistive devices to education and mental health services.
Wispact’s grant program is not an entitlement but a targeted effort to supplement public benefits and address specific needs.
Strategic Grantmaking: A Commitment to Community Impact
A key highlight of the presentation is the Wispact Foundation’s strategic grantmaking efforts. Since its inception, the Foundation has provided Legacy Grants to disability service organizations, addressing critical areas such as accessibility, transportation, and vocational support. In its fourth year of supporting Wisconsin nonprofits through its Legacy Grant Program, the Wispact Foundation recently distributed 118 grants totaling $987,045 to 90 organizations.
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Impact
Wispact’s forward-thinking strategy includes ongoing expansion of its grant program and collaboration with community foundations across Wisconsin. By partnering with organizations like the Greater Milwaukee Foundation, Wispact aims to leverage expertise in philanthropy and maximize the impact of its retained funds.
Kevin concluded his presentation by encouraging pooled trust organizations to adopt similar best practices, focusing on transparency, beneficiary-centered policies, and strategic partnerships while making a lasting difference for individuals with disabilities.