Our Guardian Advocate Program trains individuals to serve as temporary surrogate decision makers for involuntarily hospitalized clients, under the Florida Mental Health Act (Baker Act, Ch. 394, F.S.), 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 or to schedule an in-person training, contact Jamillah Chaney at JChaney@mhacf.org or by calling (407) 898-0110 Ext. 1010