Nonprofits Seek to Change Minnesota’s Guardianship System

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - A coalition of Minnesota nonprofits is developing an alternative to a system in which vulnerable adults in the state live under the supervision of a court-appointed guardian who has broad authority over the money, medical care and personal relationships of their wards.

Volunteers of America of Minnesota and Wisconsin is creating the system with help from a $1 million federal grant. The group will connect vulnerable adults with relatives and social workers who have expertise in caring for people with disabilities.

Advocates say hundreds of Minnesota residents could regain control over basic decisions such as where to live, whom to date and how to spend their money if the model catches on.

Minnesota courts receive 1,500 to 2,000 petitions for guardianship each year. Judges often grant them unlimited powers under the law.