FAQs
Why Guardianship?
A guardian is appointed by the court because the person is unable to make major decisions. We advocate for the expressed preferences and values of the person. If there is no information about the person's values, we use the "best interests" of the individual to guide our decisions. We report to the court every three years the status, assets, and occurrences in that reporting period.
What is Guardianship of Person and/or Estate?
Sometimes a guardianship is created split between a guardian "of the person" - making medical and personal decisions, and the guardian "of the estate" - making financial decisions. Bridge can perform either, or both, roles as the person and family need.
What is a Representative Payee?
A person or agency designated by Social Security to manage the person's funds. In most cases, Bridge Disability Ministries is the Representative payee; and in the other few cases, the guardian oversees and gives direction to the Representative Payee.