Event Details
Date/Time/Location
Monday, February 2, 2026
6:00 – 7:30PM
Online via Zoom or
In Person* at UF Health Psychiatric Hospital, 4101 NW 89 Blvd, Room 1901, Gainesville, Florida
*The deadline to register for the in-person option is 1/26/26.
Training Description
An overview of the special needs planning roadmap, that will explore planning milestones, key planning phrases and documents, and risk factors to consider when exploring the right plan, taking into consideration the age and circumstances of the loved one with autism.
Training Objectives
- Participants will understand Special Needs Planning: When to consider it and why it’s important?
- Participants will understand Transition Planning: What should be considered?
- Participants will understand Life Care Planning: What are the key components for a comprehensive plan?
Target Audience
Parents and caregivers, adults with ASD, professionals
About the Presenter
Attorney Minerva Vazquez Santiago, Esq.
Elder Law and Estate Planning attorney
Guiding Families with Heart and Expertise Minerva Vazquez Santiago is an Elder Law and Estate Planning attorney with a personal and professional mission: to help families — especially those caring for children and adults with disabilities — build secure, thoughtful plans for today and the future. With more than 20 years of legal experience, Minerva’s work includes: • Special Needs Planning — ensuring lifelong support without jeopardizing benefits • Estate & Legacy Planning — preserving assets and passing on family values • Elder Law & Long-Term Care — preparing for the future with peace of mind But what truly sets Minerva apart is her perspective as a mother of two young men with disabilities. She understands the emotional weight of planning and the relief that comes with knowing your family is protected. Her clients value not just her legal knowledge but also her empathy, creativity, and ability to see solutions others might overlook. Minerva works with families of all ages and stages — whether you’re just starting your journey as a parent, balancing care for aging loved ones, or looking back and wanting to protect your life’s work. She meets you where you are and helps you move forward with clarity and confidence. She is also supported by her husband and business partner, Boaz Santiago, whose collaboration helps bring comprehensive care and continuity to every client relationship.
Accommodations
We strive to host accessible events that enable all individuals living in our catchment area* to engage fully. To request accommodations or for inquiries about accessibility, please contact Dr. Danielle Liso at 352-265-2241 or card-training@ufl.edu.
*Counties Served by UF CARD: Alachua, Bradford, Citrus, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Hernando, Lafayette, Levy, Marion, Putnam, Suwannee, Union
If you live in a different county in Florida, find your CARD here.
Contact
Danielle Liso
card-training@ufl.edu
352-265-2241