Statement of Purpose

Commonwealth Community Trust (CCT) was established to provide a convenient and economical way to have trust funds administered for people with disabilities that will supplement the benefits offered by entitlement programs. Our mission is to enhance government programs for the lifelong special needs of the beneficiary so that he or she can live securely.

The "Special Needs Trust" is funded by a third party, usually a close family member.

The "Pooled Disability Trust" is self-funded by the individual with a disability.

Our purpose is to give you peace of mind.

About Commonwealth Community Trust (CCT)

Commonwealth Community Trust is a 501(C) 3 non-profit statewide organization, established in 1990 by parents of children with disabilities.

CCT is managed by a Board of Directors who serve with a caring heart and without compensation. At least two members are related to an individual with a disability and the rest are selected based on professional ability and interest.

A Trust is an
arrangement by
which a person
makes a gift of
property to a Trustee
to be used for
the benefit of the
Beneficiary.

CCT safeguards entitlement benefits and provides reporting to Social Security and Medicaid. CCT provides a watchful eye to assure compliance with changes in laws and regulations.

The Trust Company of Virginia, a licensed and bonded investment corporation, serves as a Trustee, and together with the Board of Directors of CCT and staff, manages the investment and disbursement of funds. Quarterly accounting is provided to participants.

A trust is available to beneficiaries of any age.
There are no minimum funding requirements or maximum restrictions.
CCT offers an affordable alternative.
CCT serves anyone who is disabled.
CCT will continue in perpetuity.
CCT staff and board are sensitive to people with disabilities.
Disbursements are prompt and for the sole benefit of the beneficiary.

Participation in the CCT can be coordinated with the family's estate plan. CCT will collaborate with attorneys to make the best possible arrangements.

Testimonials

"I just wanted you know how helpful the services of the Commonwealth Community Trust (CCT) have been to so many clients of my law firm. With the two different special needs trusts (one for family members to use and the pooled disability trust for self-settled funds), CCT provides a great alternative for families who don't want to use other family members as Trustees, for any number of reasons. The expertise of the CCT staff, in conjunction with the Trust Company of Virginia (TCVA), in handling disbursements and reporting requirements, as well as TCVA's expertise in managing trust investments, provides peace of mind for many families.

"I know that other professionals across the state are finding out about the benefits of CCT and recommending it to their clients as well."

Carolyn A.H. Bourdow, Attorney
Bourdow, Bowen & Ellis, P.C.
Midlothian, Va.

"We are not only supporters of the Commonwealth Community Trust, but our son, and therefore our family, is a client as well. While all parents want their children's futures to be as bright as possible, it is even more worrisome and important when the child has a disability. By creating a Special Needs Trust for our son with Down Syndrome, not only have we helped to ensure more opportunities for him after we are gone, we have also not made him a significant financial burden for his siblings and relatives. CCT has made the future brighter for everyone in our family."

Harry & Cynthia Gewanter
Richmond, VA