The Span Center’s Public Guardian Program serves vulnerable older adults (55+) by providing legal decision-making, including healthcare, finances and daily living needs. Public Guardians are contracted by the Department of Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) to assist individuals who have no one to help them make important decisions. This can include those with intellectual disabilities, mental illness, and cognitive impairments.
Public guardians ensure older adults in need live with dignity, respect and the highest quality of life possible. Guardians provide ongoing advocacy and make critical decisions regarding healthcare, finances and daily living. In addition to serving as legal decision-makers, they advocate for the individual’s wishes and quality of life, coordinate and monitor medical and personal care and ensure the individual is living in a safe environment.
Eligibility is open to individuals 18+ years old who are incapacitated and indigent with no suitable person to serve as guardian. This service is provided at no charge – however, there may be costs associated with the petition for a Public Guardian.
To learn more or refer someone to the program for consideration, contact:
The Span Center
(804) 343-3000 – Glynis Boyd Hughes
Email: [email protected]
Referrals for the The Span Center Public Guardian programs waiting list are always welcome.
For frequently asked questions and other referral questions about the Public Guardianship program, go to: Public Guardian Waiting List Referral Information
For information on how to find a Public Guardian program near you, go to: Virginia Public Guardian Program Directory
For other options for Virginia residents to receive support in their decision-making needs, go to: List of Supported Decision-Making Alternatives
