There are some individuals in Wood County who are unable to make decisions on their own behalf. They need
help with making daily life decisions – from the simple to the more complex. Since 2011, the Wood County
Probate Court has been appointing volunteer guardians to help these people with their health and
placement decisions.
Guardianship is defined as a legal relationship established by the Wood County Probate Court in which a
person (guardian) is appointed on behalf of another individual declared incompetent by the court (ward).

Wood County Guardians are appointed only as a guardian of the person, meaning they are appointed to help
their wards make health and placement decisions and do not make any financial decisions.
Judge David E. Woessner spearheaded the program after he found some residents in need of help with
decisions.
There are seven active guardians and four applicants, according to Jennifer Robeson, office manager for
the Wood County Probate Court.
"There is a greater need for guardians today," Robeson said. "I think part of the reason
is agencies have a better understanding of the guardianship process, and the option to pursue it, which
has led to an increase in requests for guardians."
Guardians are fully trained on how to deal with situations regarding their ward. After initial training,
guardians continue with ongoing training, meetings and speakers, and have resources available for
questions, including attorneys and Roberson herself. Guardians are appointed by the probate court for an
indefinite term.
The guardianship program was made possible, in part, by a partnership with the Wood County Committee on
Aging.
"We were putting a committee together, and WCCOA became a part of it," Robeson said.
"Since then, WCCOA has helped us in so many ways – from hosting meetings to helping with recruiting
guardians to just being a great source of advice."
The next training program is scheduled for Jan. 29 and 30 from 1 to 5 p.m. at the Wood County Courthouse.

Janet Delong, a retired public health nurse and current guardian, became involved with the guardianship
program after speaking with Denise Niese, executive director for WCCOA.
"Denise approached me about the program and I thought it would be a great way to help someone in
need," Delong said.
Delong’s ward is of an older age, but other wards are as young as 18. She says her experience as a
guardian has been very rewarding.
"I have learned so much from my ward," Delong said. "She was once lost in the system and
it has been great helping her and learning about her life; she is so unique and I just find her
delightful."
Woessner is very happy with the achievements of the guardianship program.
"Since its start up in 2011, our Volunteer Guardian Program has been an outstanding success,"
the judge said. "Our committed volunteers have stepped up to help individuals throughout the county
who have needed assistance – their experiences have been both challenging and rewarding."
For more information regarding the Wood County Probate Court and Guardianship, visit
probate-court.co.wood.oh.us or call (419) 354-9230.