Public guardianship services are designed for individuals who are incapacitated, indigent, and have no suitable person to serve as their guardian. Guardianship ensures that their essential requirements for physical and emotional health are met, and that their financial resources are managed.
The Virginia Department for the Aging funds Appalachian Agency for Senior Citizens to provide public guardianship services to individuals in Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell and Tazewell counties.
Referrals typically come through the Virginia Department of Social Services or other community-based organizations, such as Cumberland Mountain Community Service Board.
Guardianship requests must go through the Virginia Circuit Court. If the individual is found to meet the criteria for guardianship services, the local public guardianship program is suggested to the Circuit Court as a suitable guardian for the person. The Circuit Court makes the appointment and the program takes over as guardian for the incapacitated person.
At this time, space in the program is limited to 40 individuals; however, referrals are welcomed by contacting Leslie Hughes at [email protected] or 276-971-0834.