FRANKLIN, IN — The Judicial District 17 VASIA (Volunteer Advocates for Seniors and Incapacitated Adults) program, which currently serves Johnson and Shelby counties, will expand its services to include Hancock County in 2026. This court-appointed guardianship program supports incapacitated adults who are unable to make medical and financial decisions on their own.
The expansion — made possible by Hancock Regional Hospital — was initiated at the request of Hancock County Circuit Court Judge Scott Sirk, Hancock County Prosecutor Brent Eaton and Chief Investigator Brent Brown.
“This growth reflects the strong collaboration among our judicial and healthcare partners, and our shared commitment to protecting some of our community’s most vulnerable citizens,” said Lauren Rynerson, Executive Director of District 17 VASIA.
According to Rynerson, the expansion aligns with existing judicial districting and regional priorities. “Expanding into Hancock County is a natural fit,” she said. “We’re excited to provide advocacy and support where it’s needed most.”
Volunteer Guardians are trained, vetted, and court-appointed volunteers who make essential decisions on behalf of incapacitated adults. These decisions may involve medical care, nursing home placement, or access to community resources. Many adults served by VASIA live with conditions such as dementia, mental illness, or traumatic brain injuries. The adults under a VASIA guardianship typically have no willing, able, or appropriate relative or other significant person to serve in that role.
Volunteer Guardians work closely with VASIA staff, who manage case referrals, appear in court, apply for public benefits, and coordinate services to ensure each client receives comprehensive care.
For more information or to get involved with the District 17 VASIA program, visit indianavasia.org.
