Background

Since 1997 several Area Boards, including Area Board 10, have had an Interagency Agreement with the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) "for the purpose of providing advocacy resources to individuals residing at state developmental centers who have no involved families or legal conservators." The Advocacy Services Project is located at Lanterman Developmental Center in Pomona.

What is the role of the Coordinator?
The Coordinator is responsible for:

• The provision of advocacy assistance to clients. This includes attending IPPs and advocating for services and supports.
• Recruiting, training, and supervising volunteer advocates to assist the clients.
• Evaluate proposed community placements for appropriateness.

What is the role of the Volunteer Advocate?

• Develop familiarity with the client by visiting at least four hours monthly, reviewing the clinical record, interacting with staff and through additional means as appropriate.
• Represent the interests and wishes of the person they are matched with, to the extent that the person is unable to act for him or herself.
• Attend annual/semi-annual Individual Program Plan (IPPs). Attend special IPPs when possible.

How can I apply to be a Volunteer Advocate?

• Applicants are expected to visit at least four hours a month with the individual and commit to the program a minimum of six months.
• Applicants will be screened for appropriateness and have background checks, including fingerprints, conducted prior to participation.
• A stipend of $40 per month will be provided.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer or have questions please call David Zermeno, Advocacy Services Coordinator, at (909) 839-1357. Email address: ascldc@earthlink.net

To download an application, please click here.
(To view the application, Adobe Reader 7.0 or later is required. Click here to download)