Guardian Advocate Program
Our Guardian Advocate Program trains individuals to serve as temporary surrogate decision makers for involuntarily hospitalized clients, under the Florida Baker Act, who have no family members to act on their behalf.
When a community member is involuntarily hospitalized, this is often one of the most difficult times in their lives. By becoming a Guardian Advocate, you are able to be there to guide and help them back to recovery in their time of need.
The training is centered on patient rights and knowledge of the Baker Act so that the surrogate decision maker can act as a safety net to ensure the patient is treated properly and fairly while involuntarily hospitalized. An interview is required for those wishing to intern/volunteer.
For more information, contact Sierra at Jsims@mhacf.org or by calling (407) 898-0110 ext. 105.
Advocate
Upcoming Training Dates
Guardian Advocate Trainings are paired into two sessions, Session 1 and Session 2. You must complete both Session 1 and Session 2 to become a certified Guardian Advocate. All instances of Session 1 are the same and all instances of Session 2 are the same. This means that you can take Session 1 one week, and Session 2 the next to complete the training.
Testimonials
I am very grateful for the Mental Health Association of Central Florida. Little did I know I would gain much more than a credential needed to represent my family. This was so much more than a class. Each person who attended had their own reason for being there and for the first time during my 2 month ordeal in Florida I felt that I had support of people who understood my situation. Our instructor, Charlotte Melton, shared with us her own story which made all of us in the class feel more comfortable to share our individual situations. Sincerely a student, supporter, and friend
Images do not depict the actual individuals who gave the testimonial
