Volunteer Advocates for Seniors and Incapacitated Adults (VASIA)
Indiana Guardianship Services, Inc. participates in Indiana’s Volunteer Advocates for Seniors and Incapacitated Adults (VASIA) program, established under Indiana Code §§ 29-3-8.5-1 et seq. The VASIA program exists to ensure that vulnerable adults who lack appropriate decision-makers are not left without protection, advocacy, or oversight. Through this program, Indiana Guardianship Services serves as guardian of last resort, appointed by the court to support adults who have been legally determined to be incapacitated under Indiana law.
About VASIA
Who VASIA Serves
VASIA guardianship is intended for adults who are unable to make certain personal, medical, or financial decisions and who do not have suitable family members, friends, or other supports able to serve in a guardianship role.
Individuals served through the VASIA program may include adults living with:
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Dementia or Alzheimer’s disease
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Conditions related to aging
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Intellectual or developmental disabilities
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Traumatic brain injuries
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In some cases, mental illness or substance use disorders
Each case is evaluated individually, and guardianship is pursued only when less restrictive alternatives are not appropriate or sufficient.
How VASIA is Funded
VASIA guardianship services are made possible through funding from the Indiana Supreme Court, along with local grants and community support. Indiana Guardianship Services, Inc. also receives support from organizations such as the Health Foundation of LaPorte as well as corporate and individual donors.
This funding allows Indiana Guardianship Services, Inc. to provide guardianship to eligible individuals regardless of their ability to pay for services. Availability is limited, and eligibility criteria apply. Individuals or referring professionals are encouraged to contact our office to discuss consideration for the VASIA program.
VASIA Guardianship
VASIA clients make up a significant portion of the individuals served by IGS, but there is no difference in the quality or professionalism of services provided to VASIA clients and private-pay clients. All clients are served by the same trained professionals and receive the same commitment to person-centered decision-making, ethical guardianship practices, and regular monitoring and advocacy.
From initial referral through court appointment and ongoing case management, all aspects of guardianship (including assessments and legal filings) are handled in-house to ensure consistency, efficiency, and continuity of care.
Referrals, Program Capacity, & Community Support
VASIA guardianship services begin no different than private pay services: with a referral. Each referral is carefully reviewed to determine appropriateness, eligibility, and current program capacity. Because VASIA serves as a guardian of last resort, guardianship is pursued only when less restrictive alternatives are not available or sufficient.
The need for guardianship services for indigent and unrepresented adults far exceeds available resources. As a result, IGS is not able to accept every referral. Program capacity is limited, and acceptance depends on eligibility requirements, court appointment, and available funding.
Community support plays a critical role in sustaining VASIA services. Funding from the Indiana Supreme Court, local grants, and individual and corporate contributions allows IGS to provide guardianship to eligible individuals regardless of their ability to pay. Volunteers and donors help ensure that vulnerable adults are not left without advocacy, oversight, or protection.
If you would like to make a VASIA referral or learn more about eligibility, support the program through volunteering or internships, or contribute to our mission, please use the options below to connect with us.