Introducing the Elinore Nudelman ALS Savings Program

Empowering Education Through Legacy and Hope

The Elinore Nudelman ALS Savings Program, administrated by ALS Northwest, honors the legacy of individuals who have battled amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) by securing a brighter educational future for their children.  

This program provides a funded 529 Savings Plan through Embark (formerly the Oregon College Savings Plan) for children with a parent or guardian currently living with ALS or who have passed away from the disease.  It offers a pathway to educational opportunities, easing the financial burdens that often accompany higher education. 

A 529 Savings Plan is an investment that makes saving for college and other educational expenses more manageable. Contributions to the 529 plan grow tax-free, and withdrawals are not taxed when used for qualified educational costs. These costs can include tuition and fees associated with college, apprenticeships, or vocational schools. 

Why a 529 Savings Plan?

Growth Potential: Funds in the 529 plan are invested, offering the opportunity for growth over time and enhancing the value of the educational fund. 

Flexibility: After establishing the account, additional contributions can be made by anyone. This allows family, friends, and supporters to contribute to the child’s educational future. 

Control and Ownership: While Embark administers the account, the parent or guardian retains ownership and control over investment choices and funds after the account is set up. 

When a child experiences the loss of a parent due to ALS, the impact goes beyond social or emotional; the child loses the prospective financial support and earnings that the parent would have contributed to their future. In 2023, around 7% of families affected by ALS and receiving assistance from ALS Northwest had at least one child under 18 residing with them.

The challenge of saving for and financing education becomes a common struggle for many children who lose a parent or guardian to ALS. This program aims to alleviate a portion of this lost support by enabling children of ALS patients to accumulate savings for their future education and overall life success.

Eligibility and Application

To be eligible for this program, applicants must meet the following criteria: 

1. To be eligible for this program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
2. The child must have a parent or guardian diagnosed with ALS.
3. Both the child and parent/guardian with ALS must reside in Oregon or Southwest Washington.
4. 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).
5. The child must be 17 years old or younger.

Together, Building a Legacy of Education

The Elinore Nudelman ALS Savings Program stands as a testament to the resilience and legacy of those affected by ALS. Through the gift of education, we aim to empower the next generation with hope, opportunity, and the tools to succeed. To apply, or to learn more about how you can support or benefit from this program, please contact us at careservices@alsnorthwest.org or (503) 512-5141.