RGA Welcomes Illinois State Treasurer for Dialogue on Financial Independence

March 16, 2023

Ray Graham Association is proud to welcome Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs for a visit to discuss IL ABLE (Illinois Achieving a Better Life Experience) and their benefits for and with people with disabilities. The meeting provided an opportunity for the Treasurer to learn more about the work at Ray Graham Association and hear from IL ABLE account owners and IL ABLE-eligible constituents.

IL ABLE Accounts are an important financial tool for people with disabilities, allowing them to save for qualified disability expenses without risking loss of their benefits from assistance programs. The IL ABLE program has helped many individuals and families achieve financial security and independence, and the Treasurer’s visit underscores the importance of this program. “Ray Graham Association provides important programming that empowers people with disabilities with the necessary skills and tools that promote their independence and inclusion,” said Illinois State Treasurer Michael Frerichs. “We at the Illinois State Treasurer’s office share your vision of achieving greater independence and inclusion of people with disabilities through the power that comes from being able to save and control your own money. The IL ABLE – Achieving a Better Life Experience program enables people with disabilities and their families greater financial independence while preserving benefits.”

We are honored to welcome Treasurer Frerichs to discuss the benefits of IL ABLE accounts for people with disabilities” said Ray Graham Association President & CEO Kim Zoeller. “It means so much to have an engaged public official who is committed to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities in Illinois.”

Ray Graham Association has been providing services and support for people with disabilities since 1950, and is dedicated to promoting independence, choice, and access for individuals of all abilities. The Illinois ABLE program is a key component of this mission, and RGA is proud to be a partner in this important initiative. Learn more about IL ABLE benefits and eligibility at IllinoisABLE.com.

About the Illinois Treasurer

As Illinois State Treasurer, Michael Frerichs (FRAIR’-iks) is the state’s Chief Investment and Banking Officer and actively manages approximately $52 billion. The portfolio includes $26 billion in state funds, $17 billion in retirement and college savings plans and $9 billion on behalf of local and state governments. Frerichs’ office protects consumers by safeguarding more than $3.5 billion in unclaimed property, encouraging savings plans for college or trade school, increasing financial education among all ages, assisting people with disabilities to save without losing government benefits, and removing barriers to a secure retirement. The Treasurer’s Office predates Illinois incorporation in 1818. Voters in 1848 chose to make it an elected office.