What to Expect When Volunteering with the VASIA Program

Supporting Vulnerable Seniors in Johnson & Shelby Counties

A Role That Transforms Lives, Including Yours

For those called to serve, especially retirees with a background in education, nursing, law, or caregiving, becoming a VASIA volunteer advocate is a deeply meaningful way to bring hope, protection, and human connection to vulnerable adults who have no one else to speak for them.

Whether you’re drawn by a desire to give back, reconnect with your community, or offer a voice to the neglected, VASIA offers a powerful opportunity to become an advocate, a guardian, and often, a friend.

The Process: From Interest to Advocacy

Here’s what you can expect once you decide to apply:

1. Submit Your Application
   Begin by expressing your interest through the official VASIA volunteer application. This is your first step in joining a network of compassionate advocates.
2. Interview and Background Check
   After your application is reviewed, you’ll be contacted for an interview. All volunteers must pass a background check before acceptance.
3. Training and Orientation
   You’ll complete a 5-hour one-on-one training session that covers:
   • Guardianship law and ethics
   • HIPAA and confidentiality
   • Elder abuse prevention and APS coordination
   • Navigating the court system
   • Effective communication and relationship building
4. Client Assignment
   Once trained, you’ll be assigned your first case. This can take up to a month, depending on timing and court needs.

What Volunteering Really Looks Like

Time Commitment:

• A minimum of 6 hours per month
• At least one in-person visit every 30 days
• Regular communication with the VASIA director and team
• Court reporting, follow-ups, and coordination with healthcare or financial contacts

Case Load:
Some volunteers choose to take on more than one client, based on availability and comfort. Every client is different, and each one is counting on you.

The Emotional Journey: Building Bonds

Many new advocates are surprised at how personal and emotional the work becomes.

Initially, some clients may resist your presence. They may feel upset, guarded, or unsure about being placed under guardianship. Some may even request a new guardian.

But over time, with patience, consistency, and compassion, volunteers begin to build trust. You become more than a guardian. You become a reliable presence. A source of comfort. A friend.

Real Responsibility, Real Impact

As a VASIA volunteer, you may be responsible for:

• Consent for medical procedures
• Overseeing financial accounts
• Attending court hearings (especially in abuse or neglect cases)
• Preventing exploitation or unsafe housing
• Connecting your client with services or safe placement

Your role helps ensure that your client’s voice is heard, even when they can no longer speak for themselves.

Supported Every Step of the Way

You won’t do this alone. Volunteers are supported by a dedicated VASIA director, a team of fellow advocates, and a strong training program.

Expect:

• Ongoing communication and guidance
• Volunteer appreciation and connection events
• Access to continuing education and updated legal info
• Encouragement from a like-hearted community of servant leaders

Who Makes a Great Volunteer Advocate?

The truth? You don’t need to be a legal expert. You need heart.

That said, the following traits and backgrounds often excel:

• Retired attorneys, teachers, or nurses
• Caregivers or social workers
• Anyone with empathy, patience, and a love for their community

This work isn’t always easy, but for those willing to show up, it’s among the most rewarding volunteer experiences available.

Challenges to Be Prepared For

• Some clients may initially resist help or communication
• You may witness difficult living conditions or emotional trauma
• Navigating medical systems and legal forms can take time

But VASIA will train and guide you every step of the way. And in the end, you’ll likely gain more than you give.

Why It Matters

There are seniors in our community who are neglected, confused, and without family. Many are left to navigate the world alone. VASIA volunteers step into that gap, not only to manage care and consent, but to restore dignity, joy, and safety.

You become their security, their advocate, their friend, and their voice in the court system.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you’re a retiree looking for meaningful community service…
If you want to serve others with your time and experience…
If you believe no one should face life alone…

Then District 17 VASIA needs you.

Visit indianavasia.org/volunteer to learn more, or contact the Johnson & Shelby County VASIA team to get started.

You can be the difference in someone’s life.