Needs From: United Way Volunteer Connect

Not Everyone Has Someone.. Become a Volunteer Guardian Today 

We have a waiting list of people that need a guardian. Now is the time to sign up to volunteer if you have been waiting.

 

 

Click Here for Program Brochure

Click Here for Via Center Webpage

Please contact VGP Coordinator Lynn Hudson at email address lhudson@viamobile.org Each year, many citizens in Mobile County are declared by the Probate Court to be unable to make decisions on their own.  These special citizens - or wards - are rescued by an incredible community group known as Volunteer Guardians.

A Guardianship is a legal relationship in which a Guardian is appointed by Mobile County Probate Court to make decisions for those incapacitated or unable to communicate decisions concerning their health or safety. The guardian does not handle any financial responsibilities. A Conservator is appointed by the court to handle these matters.

The Volunteer Guardian Program (VGP) is the last line of defense for vulnerable citizens - with no appropriate family or friends - against homelessness and worsening quality of life.  The VGP is administered by the Via Health, Fitness and Enrichment Center, and partners with the Mobile County Probate Court, the Mobile County Commission, the City of Mobile and community referral agencies.  Mobile County’s VGP was introduced by Probate Court Judge Don Davis in 2010, and the program remains the first and only of its kind in our state. 

The life-changing decisions Volunteer Guardians make for their wards impact basic needs (food and housing), medical treatments or care and end-of-life care.  Guardians attend court hearings, file paperwork, coordinate with other agencies to obtain needed services, shop or take  their ward shopping,  attend doctors’ appointments if needed and stay connected to ensure wards’ health and safety.

Since 2010, VGP has recruited, trained and matched hundreds of community volunteers to serve as Guardians for these special people. Currently, there are more than 65 amazing Volunteer Guardians active in the program.  They range in age from 21 to 65, and include college students, homemakers, nurses, pastors and preachers, Certified Nursing Assistants, social workers and even a retired FBI official. 

The Via Center is seeking caring and committed volunteers to become a part of the program.

What does it take to be a Volunteer Guardian?

Volunteer Guardians are compassionate, caring and committed.  They are 21 and older, have computer access, transportation, the ability to learn basic legal and medical information, can complete a background check and are able to spare at least 4-6 hours per month to make a vulnerable citizen's life better.  And, during the pandemic, all Covid safety and health protocols are in place for the program.

Support services for Mobile seniors by volunteering at Via! Health, Fitness and Enrichment. We have lots of different projects we need help with, including clerical and administrative tasks, gardening/weeding flower beds, lawn care, supply sorting and organization, facilities clean-up, and other special projects. 

Volunteers are always welcome, and we're happy to set up a time for you to volunteer that works around your schedule.