In Johnson County and neighboring areas, countless seniors and incapacitated adults lack family or support systems to help them make critical life decisions. Volunteer advocates step in to fill this gap, ensuring their rights, safety, and well-being are protected. These guardians are appointed by the court, trained by VASIA, and supported every step of the way. The result is a life-changing opportunity to serve someone truly in need.
What makes retired individuals particularly well-suited for this role? For starters, they bring a natural calm and maturity that comes from years of personal and professional experience. Whether from careers in healthcare, education, law, or caregiving, many have encountered situations that mirror the realities faced by VASIA clients.
Retirees tend to understand the complex needs of aging adults, including memory loss, mobility issues, and the emotional toll of isolation. More importantly, they recognize how crucial it is for every person to feel heard and respected, especially when navigating difficult legal or medical decisions.
Another strength retirees bring is availability. With fewer time constraints, many can commit to the flexible schedule that guardianship requires. On average, a volunteer advocate spends about six hours per month supporting their client, though that can vary depending on the individual’s needs. For someone without family or a trusted voice, this modest commitment can mean everything.
One concern for prospective volunteers is whether the responsibilities are too complex. That’s where VASIA’s training program comes in. Volunteers are guided through a comprehensive course that covers guardianship law, the aging process, medical and financial decision-making, and ethical standards.
Topics include:
This training equips volunteers to advocate confidently and compassionately, even without prior legal or healthcare experience.
This kind of service transforms both lives. Clients feel safer and less alone, while volunteers rediscover a sense of purpose that retirement doesn’t always provide. There’s a deep satisfaction in knowing your time and care directly improve someone’s quality of life.
The core responsibility of a VASIA volunteer is to represent and protect the best interests of an adult who cannot do so independently. As a guardian, you might help with medical choices, living arrangements, or financial matters — always guided by what’s in the person’s best interest and with oversight from the court.
Common duties include:
Importantly, volunteers are never alone in these duties. VASIA provides ongoing guidance, documentation support, and staff you can call with questions. It’s a community effort, built around empowering those who cannot speak for themselves.
Becoming a volunteer is straightforward. After submitting an application and passing a background check, new volunteers complete the training program and are then eligible to be appointed by the court. From there, VASIA matches volunteers with clients in need, based on availability and interest.
To get started, visit the VASIA Volunteer Page and fill out the application. Every step of the way, you’ll be supported, trained, and appreciated.
For retirees seeking meaningful ways to give back, volunteer advocacy with VASIA is a powerful choice. It honors your wisdom, your time, and your compassion. More importantly, it changes lives, starting with the individual whose safety and dignity depend on someone like you.
There is a pressing need in Johnson County for advocates who can offer time, steadiness, and care. You can be that person. You can be the reason someone feels seen, protected, and valued.
Take the first step today — and become a trusted voice for those who can’t speak for themselves.