Transitioning into adulthood is an exciting yet emotional time, especially for families supporting a young adult with a disability. Easter Seals Alberta’s Guardianship & Trusteeship Support Program is here to help you navigate this life stage with confidence, compassion, and expertise.
Understanding Guardianship and Trusteeship:
As individuals with disabilities or medical conditions approach adulthood (18 years old), families may need to explore legal options to continue supporting important life decisions. Guardianship and Trusteeship are legal tools that help ensure vulnerable adults receive the care and support they need.
- Guardianship allows a designated adult to make personal and non-financial decisions on behalf of someone who is unable to make those decisions themselves. This can include choices about health care, living arrangements, and education.
- Trusteeship gives a designated adult the authority to make financial decisions for an individual who is unable to manage their own finances. This can involve managing income, paying bills, and protecting assets.
Both processes are overseen by the Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee (OPGT) in Alberta, and require formal applications through the court system. Understanding which option is appropriate — or whether both are needed — depends on the individual’s abilities and circumstances.
At Easter Seals Alberta, we help families navigate these complex decisions with compassion and expertise, ensuring the process is as smooth and informed as possible.
Our Services:
Navigating the Guardianship and Trusteeship process can be overwhelming — we’re here to help simplify it. Our experienced team offers two service options to support families through this important transition:
Standard Application Completion – $550
NEW: Court-Ordered Reviews or Urgent Hearing Applications – $700
Our service includes:
- Expert Application Support
Step-by-step guidance to complete Guardianship and Trusteeship forms in full compliance with Office of the Public Guardian and Trustee (OPGT) requirements. - Liaison with OPGT
We coordinate directly with the OPGT to verify and finalize applications. - Transition Planning
Assistance with related applications such as Persons with Developmental Disabilities (PDD) and Assured Income for the Severely Handicapped (AISH), along with connections to helpful programs and community supports for adulthood. - Personalized Follow-Up
One-on-one meetings with our Family Resource Centre team to help you plan next steps and address your family’s unique needs.
Why Families Choose Us:
“The help that was given to us for our Trusteeship Guardianship application was invaluable. I was feeling overwhelmed with the process, and your staff made things so easy with their previous experience and expertise. Well worth it! An amazing service you offer.” (Parent Survey Respondent)
Connect with us, because together, we’ve got this!
Helpful Resources:
To support you in your journey, we provide tools and guidance, including:
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Below, you’ll also find helpful videos to guide you through Guardianship and Trusteeship applications.
Get Started Today!
If you’ve reviewed the resources or browsed the Community Resource Database, and need further support, we’re here to help. Together, we’ll navigate the journey to help your loved one thrive.
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