During National Volunteer Week, we proudly honor the dedicated members of our Board of Trustees, all of whom serve as volunteers. Today, we spotlight Kelly Piacenti, a nationally recognized leader in disability advocacy, whose tireless work has empowered families navigating the complexities of caregiving and long-term financial planning.
A National Leader in Special Needs Financial Planning
For over 30 years, Kelly Piacenti has been a steadfast advocate for individuals with disabilities. Her career has centered on helping families develop sustainable financial plans for children and dependents with special needs — a mission fueled by both her professional expertise and deeply personal experience.
Since 2016, Kelly has led MassMutual’s SpecialCare Program, managing a national network of nearly 500 specially trained financial planners. This initiative supports families in securing a stable future for loved ones with disabilities, helping them protect government benefits while planning long-term care solutions.
Under Kelly’s leadership, the SpecialCare Program has partnered with many of the nation’s most respected disability organizations, including:
- The Arc
- Autism Society
- Huntington’s Disease Society of America
- National Down Syndrome Congress
- Tuberous Sclerosis Alliance
- United Cerebral Palsy (UCP)
These collaborations extend critical financial resources, guidance, and emotional support to thousands of families across the country.
A Personal Mission Inspired by Family
Kelly’s work is deeply informed by her experience as a mother to her late son Nicholas, who had special needs. For 19 years, she walked the journey many families face — navigating complex systems, advocating for access, and managing long-term care planning.
“My son Nicholas inspired me to do more and help those that don’t have the resources,” Kelly shares. “Our special needs families and caregivers are asked to work through this crazy maze and need all the help and resources they can get. We have the ability to assist families in protecting government benefits and planning for the future to help secure the life of the person they are caring for, as well as all family members.”
Her lived experience drives her approach, ensuring her programs are not only strategic but also deeply compassionate and inclusive.
Advancing Education and Industry Standards
Kelly also played a pivotal role in the development of the Chartered Special Needs Consultant® designation through The American College of Financial Services. This industry credential equips financial professionals with the tools to support families who care for loved ones with disabilities.
Thanks to her leadership, nearly 400 advisors have now achieved this certification, strengthening the network of professionals committed to special needs financial planning.
Recognition for Volunteer Leadership
Kelly’s volunteer impact has been widely recognized:
- Working Mother of the Year (2015) – Working Mother magazine (now out of print)
- Theresa Award (2017) – The Theresa Foundation
- Chair Award (2024) – United Cerebral Palsy
Her leadership, compassion, and professional excellence have set a standard for others who serve the disability community through both volunteerism and advocacy.
Board and Advisory Roles That Drive Change
Beyond her role with MassMutual, Kelly has served on the National Board of Trustees for UCP since 2020 and was a longtime member of The Arc’s National Board. She also contributes her expertise to several advisory boards, including:
She previously chaired MassMutual’s ADAPT Business Resource Group, championing internal disability inclusion and advocacy efforts within corporate environments.
A Voice for Inclusion and Equity
Kelly’s impact is best summed up in her own words:
“Championing inclusion, dismantling barriers, and ensuring every individual, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive.”
Through every initiative she leads — be it in her professional role, her advocacy work, or her position on our Board of Trustees — Kelly embodies the true spirit of volunteerism and leadership.
Thank you, Kelly, for your service and for being a voice of hope, strategy, and inclusion for the disability community.
