Our Programs

Alternatives to Guardianship Training

Michigan State law requires Courts to give individuals who intend to file a petition for guardianship information on alternatives to appointment of a guardian.

In Kalamazoo County, when families with an adult family member with a developmental disability are exploring guardianship, Kalamazoo County Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, the school systems or other agencies or professionals, often refer them to Community Advocates.

Community Advocates then:

  • meets with the family prior to petitioning the court to help assure that families have accurate information so they can make informed decisions about whether guardianship is needed.
  • provides information about guardianship:
    • what guardianship legally means
    • types of guardianships
    • the life areas that a guardianship covers.
  • we listen to the family's reasons for petitioning for a guardianship
  • review alternatives to guardianship that address the family's concerns
  • if the family feels guardianship is in the best interest of their family member, we provide:
    • information about the process
    • contact numbers to begin the process with Community Mental Health.