The Elinore Nudelman ALS College Savings Program

Elinore Nudelman was an extraordinary woman. Born and raised in New York City, she moved to Oregon with her husband Jerry in the 1960s. Together, they raised a family and became active members of Portland’s business and civic community. Throughout her life, Elinore played many roles—educator, devoted mother, grandmother, and philanthropist. She passed away in 2005 from ALS, leaving behind a legacy of helping others. Elinore deeply valued education, and in her honor, her family partnered with ALS Northwest to create the Elinore Nudelman ALS College Savings Program. This program supports children and youth from Oregon and Southwest Washington, whose parent or guardian has ALS, in saving for their future professional or higher education.

The program, administered by ALS Northwest, establishes funded 529 college savings plans for children of individuals with ALS residing in Oregon or Southwest Washington.

A 529 college savings plan is a state-sponsored investment account that allows families to save for a named beneficiary's education expenses. Withdrawals from a 529 plan are tax-free when used to cover eligible college, apprenticeship, or vocational education expenses.

A 529 plan offers investment opportunities, enabling the funds to grow over time. This creates the potential for increased savings, helping to secure the child’s educational future.

After approval, ALS Northwest will assist families in opening a 529 savings plan through the Oregon College Savings Plan.

The Elinore Nudelman ALS College Savings Program provides the initial deposit to establish the child’s 529 savings plan. Funding amounts are based on the child’s age.

Yes. Once the 529 plan is set up, family members, friends, and the community can contribute additional funds to the child’s account.

The Oregon College Savings Plan administers the account, and all their rules and regulations apply. However, the parent or guardian controls the plan and can manage investment choices once the account is established.

The program is available to families living in Oregon and Southwest Washington, specifically in the following counties: 

• Clark 

• Skamania 

• Klickitat 

• Wahkiakum 

• Cowlitz 

• Pacific 

To qualify, the following conditions must be met: 

• The child must have a parent or guardian diagnosed with ALS. 

• Both the child and parent/guardian with ALS must reside in Oregon or Southwest Washington. 

• The parent with ALS must be registered with and receiving services from ALS Northwest (formerly known as The ALS Association Oregon and Southwest Washington Chapter). 

• The child must be 17 years old or younger. 

Yes. Any child 17 years old or younger from a qualifying household can apply.

To receive the application, please contact one of ALS Northwest’s Care Services Coordinators, or contact us at (503) 512-5141 or careservices@alsnorthwest.org.