The Statewide Initiative of Nonprofit Guardians (SING) is a network of mission-driven nonprofit organizations that serve as guardians for New Yorkers who have no family or friends to support them and no means to pay for private services. SING members share a demonstrated commitment to person-centered care, sufficient organizational capacity, and a track record of serving people well.
SING is built on more than a shared mission. A network-wide database tracks services and outcomes throughout the duration of each guardianship, creating accountability and opportunities for continuous learning. Members also have access to training resources, technical assistance, and a learning community that ensures consistent standards and supports growth across the network.
Why Nonprofits
Not all guardians are created equal. SING's member organizations share a commitment to person-centered care, the capacity to deliver high-quality services, and a solid track record. Here's what sets us apart:
Rooted in community. SING members have spent decades building the trust, partnerships, and expertise required to serve people with skill and compassion. We are available around the clock, every day of the year, because that is what the work demands.
Driven by mission, not compensation. SING nonprofits are accountable to a mandate: help people live and age with dignity in their homes and communities for as long as possible.
Measurable results. A person-centered guardianship model keeps people out of nursing homes, reduces unnecessary hospitalizations, and stabilizes housing. The return on investment is significant for clients, for communities, and for the state.
SING by the Numbers
Since receiving its first state appropriation in 2023, SING has generated more than $10 million in net public savings — delivering over six dollars in return for every dollar invested by the state.¹
A full $15 million annual investment in SING would generate $85 million in net savings each year, primarily through reduced Medicaid spending.
¹As of May 2026; based on Project Guardianship's 2025 cost-benefit analysis.
Membership
SING currently operates in four regions of New York State through five member organizations:
Finger Lakes: Lifespan of Greater Rochester
Long Island: EAC Network and Guardianship Corp
New York City: Project Guardianship
Western New York: Center for Elder Law and Justice
This footprint reflects what is possible on limited state funding — not the full scope of need. SING is committed to expanding its network to ensure that every region of New York State has access to a qualified, mission-driven nonprofit guardian.
We aim to establish a presence in the following regions:
Capital Region: The Legal Project
Central New York
Mohawk Valley
North Country
Southern Tier
Westchester and Putnam Counties: Family Service Society of Yonkers
Get Involved
For organizations: If your organization provides or is interested in developing guardianship services, we want to hear from you. SING is actively working to expand its network as funding allows.
For legislators and funders: The evidence is clear: the SING model works. A $15 million annual investment would extend high-quality, person-centered guardianship services to every corner of New York State. Learn more about how you can help make that possible.
For advocates and allies: Guardianship Access New York (GANY) is the coalition of nonprofit providers and allies fighting to secure the funding SING needs to grow. Whether you are a provider, an aging services organization, a legal advocate, or simply someone who believes every New Yorker deserves the support they need to age with dignity, there is a place for you in GANY.
To learn more and get involved, email advocacy@projectguardianship.org.