Volunteer Advocates for Seniors

Description

The program recruits, trains, and supervises volunteers to serve as limited guardians appointed by the Lake Superior Court. VAS Volunteers undergo criminal history and social service background checks, personal interviews, provide references, and complete an initial forty hour training program. The volunteers are sworn-in by the Court as Officers and as Volunteer Advocates for Seniors.

The role of the volunteer limited guardian is to investigate and assess the incapacitated person's life situation (including locating relatives when possible), facilitate healthcare, social service, and legal representation decision-making, plan for appropriate post-release placement, and provide the Court with recommendations for long-term planning for the individual.

The VAS Volunteers are appointed to serve as limited guardians for a 60 day period. The Program provides the Court with a 15 day progress report, and a 60 day and final report which includes recommendations for further decision-making and actions to be taken on behalf of the person.