In a world where some individuals lack the ability to care for themselves, a group of dedicated volunteers in Canyon County is stepping in to ensure they receive the care and advocacy they need. The Canyon County Board of Community Guardians (BOCG), a state-mandated program, provides guardianship services for those deemed unable to make personal decisions due to incapacity. Their work is often unseen, yet their impact is profound.
During a recent Canyon County Board of Commissioners meeting, the BOCG presented its 2024 Annual Report, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of the program.
A Selfless Commitment
BOCG members commit their time and energy to supporting individuals who would otherwise have no one to advocate for their well-being. Commissioner Leslie Van Beek acknowledged the demanding nature of their work: “It’s a selfless job that you have to give back like that. These people have been deemed by the courts to not be able to care for themselves. That means you’re doing a lot of things that are really self-sacrificing in their interest.”
Bailey Wilson, a deputy with the Canyon County Sheriff’s Office, shared her motivation for joining the board. “In my capacity as a deputy, I’ve encountered several vulnerable adults in different stages of need. Seeing what options are out there—or not out there—made me realize the dire need for volunteer guardians. It is rewarding in the sense that you are doing something for people who can’t do these things for themselves.”
For many volunteers, the work extends beyond administrative duties. Guardians spend time with their wards, ensuring they receive appropriate medical care, housing, and essential services. They are often the ones making difficult decisions, from medical choices to end-of-life care, and even notifying families when their loved ones pass away.
The Growing Need for Volunteers
Despite the dedication of its current members, the Board of Community Guardians faces a significant challenge—finding enough volunteers to meet the growing need. Wilson expressed concern over the board’s dwindling numbers. “Our numbers are down as far as volunteers go, and it’s disheartening because I’m not sure how to fix it. The few of us that come, we do the best we can.”
Jayne Josephsen, another board member with a background in healthcare, echoed Wilson’s concerns. “In healthcare, you often see people abandoned. Families either don’t want to or can’t care for their loved ones anymore. That leaves a gap, making it difficult to determine decision-makers for these individuals. Without a robust volunteer base, I fear this program may not be able to continue in Canyon County.”
Mary Jo Campbell, a long-standing board member who has served on the BOCG for nearly 13 years, recalled a time when the county provided little support to the board. “We only had ourselves. Every month, we tried to help as many people as we could. Now, it’s even harder to find people willing to volunteer their time.”
A Call to Action
The board members emphasized that more volunteers are needed to sustain this vital program. The work is challenging, but as many guardians attest, it is also deeply fulfilling. “We know there are people with altruistic hearts out there,” said Van Beek. “We just need to reach them.”
For those interested in making a difference, the Board of Community Guardians offers an opportunity to provide meaningful support to some of the county’s most vulnerable residents. Anyone willing to contribute their time and compassion is encouraged to reach out and learn more about how they can help.
To inquire about volunteering or to learn more about the program, contact the Canyon County Board of Community Guardians at Community.Guardians@canyoncounty.id.gov or (208) 455-5969.
For the full audio of the BOCC Agenda meeting on Feb. 5, 2025: https://agenda.canyoncounty.id.gov/SupportDoc/GetSupportingDoc?supportDocID=4180
For the BOCG 2024 Annual presentation: https://agenda.canyoncounty.id.gov/SupportDoc/GetSupportingDoc?supportDocID=4199
