Every person deserves to feel safe, heard, and supported—especially those who are unable to advocate for themselves. Across Johnson and Shelby Counties, many seniors and incapacitated adults live without the guidance of family, the stability of a caregiver, or the security of legal protection. Whether due to advanced age, cognitive decline, disability, or mental illness, these individuals often find themselves alone in navigating complicated systems of care, with no one to speak on their behalf.
That’s where VASIA (Volunteer Advocates for Seniors and Incapacitated Adults) steps in. Through this court-based public guardianship program, trained volunteers become a trusted voice in the court system and a vital link between vulnerable individuals and the support they need to live with dignity.
VASIA serves two primary populations:
Volunteer advocates through VASIA are court-appointed guardians, entrusted with the responsibility of protecting both the well-being and rights of their assigned individuals. This role is not medical or hands-on, but focused on ensuring decisions are made in the best interest of someone who cannot make them independently.
Key responsibilities of a volunteer advocate include:
Whether the individual is an elderly person in a care facility or a younger adult in a supported living environment, the advocate serves as both guardian and guardian angel, ensuring no one is forgotten.
While many people associate guardianship with aging, a significant portion of those in need are younger adults who experience lifelong disabilities or have suffered trauma that leaves them unable to manage on their own. These individuals often fall through the cracks of overburdened systems.
Without advocacy:
A volunteer guardian helps restore stability to lives that might otherwise remain in chaos. By standing up for the rights and needs of incapacitated adults, VASIA volunteers fill a critical gap in Indiana’s care infrastructure—ensuring that those who cannot advocate for themselves are seen, heard, and protected.
Volunteering as an advocate is a unique and meaningful way to give back. It’s not just about helping—it’s about becoming a trusted servant and protector in your community.
Volunteer advocates offer:
The service may involve monthly visits, phone calls with care providers, and occasional court appointments, but the emotional and social impact is immeasurable. It is a chance to be part of something larger—to create real change in one person’s life.
Becoming a guardian might sound intimidating, but VASIA provides comprehensive training and continuous support for every volunteer. You don’t need a background in law or healthcare—just compassion, common sense, and a commitment to helping others.
The training program covers:
Volunteers are never alone in their advocacy. VASIA staff, mentors, and a strong network of community partners are always available to guide and support each advocate.
Each volunteer advocate changes the life of someone in need—sometimes in quiet, unseen ways, and sometimes by preventing real harm. Whether helping a senior stay in a familiar care home or ensuring a young adult receives mental health treatment instead of incarceration, the work is deeply meaningful.
By stepping into this role, you become:
Ready to learn how you can help seniors and incapacitated adults live with dignity and safety? Reach out to VASIA of Johnson and Shelby Counties to explore volunteer opportunities, training dates, and the application process.