Clients in the Guardianship Program are adults who meet the legal definition for being incapacitated. Because of a physical or mental condition they are unable to feed, clothe or shelter themselves adequately. (See guardianship client descriptions – hyperlink) These clients need someone to be a friend, to watch over them, and to make sure they are receiving good care. Volunteer Guardians are trained to assist staff case managers in making decisions for them based on expressed wishes or the best interests.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Work as member of case management team along with GSI Case Manager. 
• Advocate for the needs of your client. 
• Monitor the quality of care your client receives. 
• Arrange for medical appointments. 
• Help make housing decisions. 
• Make regular and meaningful visits to client (minimum of weekly, depending on the situation). 
• Monitor the client’s financial resources.

ACCOUNTABILITIES:  Volunteers in this program operate under the direction of the Probate Courts. Guardianship Services, Inc. is named as the guardian in the Letters of Guardianship. The agency issues Letters of Agency authorizing volunteers and staff to act on behalf of GSI for a client. Since GSI is named on the document issued by the Probate Court and exercises only that authority given by the Probate Courts, GSI is responsible to the court for all actions taken under the guardianship authority. Therefore, it is very important that volunteers communicate with agency staff and consult with them on major decisions. The volunteer must do the following:

• Report monthly to GSI regarding:
  • Changes in client’s condition, 
  • Activities with or on behalf of the client, 
  • Problems the client is experiencing, and 
  • Ways problems have been resolved. 
• Complete an Annual Report for Probate Court. 
• Consult with guardianship case managers before making major decisions.

TRAINING AND SUPPORT:

Each volunteer is expected to attend 10.5 hours of initial training, which is usually spread out over 3 sessions. Program staff and experts present information on the following:  

 Program Structure & Overview

• Public Benefits
• The Court Process
• Legal Responsibilities
• Mental Health/Mental Retardation Services
• Description of Clients and Client Needs
• Advocating for Incapacitated Adults

Lecture, role playing, and discussion give the volunteer the opportunity to learn what is expected of the volunteer guardian. Training also gives staff members the opportunity to learn about the volunteer in order to help make a successful volunteer/client match.

In addition to the initial training, volunteers are required to participate in quarterly in-service training sessions. Case managers are available for consultation twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. Each client presents unique problems and opportunities. Case managers want to work closely with the volunteers to explore options and take actions that will be good for the client and will be supportive and protect the volunteer from liability.