Guardianship Ministry
Mission Statement
“We provide loving support in legal guardianship to persons with developmental disabilities, little or no support from family, and limited financial resources.”
Guardianship Overview
Bridge is court-appointed legal guardian of 40 persons with incapacitating developmental disabilities. These are persons with little or no family involvement and little or no money. Bridge has been appointed by the court to take responsibility for the decisions affecting each individual like legal and medical issues. While taking responsibility, Bridge seeks to maximize the independence, and power of choice, of each client.
Guardianships for persons with developmental disabilities are common. Because Bridge honors the God-given dignity of each person and seeks to alleviate their isolation and encourage their full participation in the community, we go beyond the legal requirements for guardians. We visit each person monthly and take him/her on an outing into the community individualized to their pleasure. We consider them family even through end of life issues. All of the community activities allow us to observe our clients in various settings in order to have a better understanding of their needs.
Guardianship in Action
- Personally visiting and involving each individual we serve in the community in order to affirm his/her life and dignity
- Advocating for the most appropriate housing, medical care and activites of daily living
- Mentoring and educating volunteers who are visiting in one-to-one friendships
- Sponsoring events to enhance community inclusion
- Nurturing potential family relationships
- Documenting all guardianship involvement in order to support advocacy efforts and legal court requirements
- Managing their limited assets
- Celebrating birthdays and Christmas
Applications for Bridge Agency Guardianship Services are accepted on a limited basis. To apply, please contact our Executive Director, Jack Staudt.