Thanks to an inaugural group of 10 volunteers, life may be a little easier for Douglas County's elderly who find themselves in an often-confusing legal system.
The county's first team of Special Advocates for the Elderly was sworn-in Jan. 21 by district judges Michael Gibbons and Dave Gamble.
Under the direction of former Lyon County District Attorney John Giomi, now a Topaz resident, the volunteers are qualified to advocate on behalf of their wards in matters from guardianship to appropriate care and treatment.
The program is similar to the county's CASA program which works on behalf of children.
"You may be the last resort to keep elders as independent as long as possible or help them make the transition," Giomi said. "You're the only one to keep the best interests of the elderly in mind."
Gibbons said the program would not be possible without the intercession of Gov. Jim Gibbons.
"We originally thought we would get some funding through the Division of Aging Services, but as the budget problems increased, those funds were no longer available," Michael Gibbons said.
"I contacted the governor's office and made the case that this program would be something worth considering," he said.
The judge told the governor's staff that there was only one part-time paid position and the rest of the participants were volunteers.
"I said we were a rural program and would help get other rurals going, and were working with the Washoe Tribe, too," Gibbons said.
It turned out the governor had control over funds used to help seniors in rural areas and that money was turned over to SAFE.
The program also received funding from the Nevada Law Foundation.
Gibbons also credited the work of District Court staff attorney Cassandra Jones who helped Giomi get the program going and train the volunteers.
The court may appoint a SAFE volunteer in civil or criminal matters involving allegations of exploitation, abuse or neglect of the fragile adult or ward.
"Our population is growing older. Our demographics have changed and we have a lot more older people living longer who may not have family around," Gibbons said. "The court system can only do so much. SAFE will help on a personal level and be the voice in court."
Gamble said he often was amazed at the impact "this tiny, tiny community" has around the state."
"It's amazing the way the state looks to Douglas County. We do things well here. Again, we are on the cutting edge of doing what needs to be done for the elderly in our community," he said.
Gamble said often when guardianship cases come before him, he has 5-10 minutes to get facts, requiring him to make decisions based on whatever information he has.
"Sometimes, I get such a tiny amount of information, I never know if someone's intentions are honorable. I'm excited our elders are going to have an independent voice beholden to them," he said.
Volunteers were trained to understand common medical conditions affecting elderly adults, appreciate differences based on culture or age, and the family process, and become familiar with available services.
People interested in the SAFE program may contact Giomi at (775) 266-3770 or e-mail safe@douglas.nv.gov.
SAFE VOLUNTEERS
Sharon Doan
Lovana Dressler
John Giomi
Nancy Henker
Dana Jantos
Dawn King
Daniel Lancaster
Donna Miller
Madeline Snyder-Hollstrom
Jeffrey Weisend
