Project Guardianship recently celebrated its 20th Anniversary with an unforgettable evening honoring two decades of service, advocacy, and care for New Yorkers who depend on its vital support. The celebration brought together an extraordinary community of friends, partners, and supporters who reflected on the organization’s remarkable journey and the growing impact of its mission—to ensure that every person, regardless of age, ability, or circumstance, can live with dignity, safety, and respect.
The evening was filled with inspiration, connection, and gratitude. Nick Turner, President and Director of the Vera Institute of Justice—Project Guardianship’s founding organization—presented an award to Joan Malin, the organization’s Founding Board Chair, in recognition of her visionary leadership and enduring commitment to building a model of guardianship rooted in compassion and justice. The Honorable Charles M. Troia was also celebrated on behalf of the New York State Unified Court System, receiving his award from The Honorable Arthur M. Diamond. Their heartfelt remarks, along with tributes shared throughout the evening, were powerful reminders of the impact that collective dedication and care can achieve.
A particularly moving moment came when New York City Council Member Crystal Hudson, Chair of the Committee on Aging, presented a special proclamation recognizing Project Guardianship’s extraordinary contributions to the city and its older adult community. Council Member Hudson’s words highlighted the organization’s essential role in supporting New Yorkers who often have no one else to turn to for care and advocacy.
Founded in 2005 as an initiative of the Vera Institute of Justice, Project Guardianship was created to fill a critical gap in the city’s social safety net. The organization provides comprehensive guardianship, case management, and legal services to older adults and individuals living with disabilities or mental illness who are unable to manage their own affairs and have no family or friends able to assist them. Its dedicated team of professionals serves as court-appointed guardians, ensuring that each client’s personal, financial, medical, and housing needs are met with dignity and respect. Beyond individual care, Project Guardianship also works to improve the guardianship system as a whole—advocating for person-centered, equitable care across New York City.
As the organization looks to the future, PG remains deeply committed to meeting the growing need for guardianship and support in New York City. Project Guardianship continues to expand its programs, partnerships, and advocacy efforts to ensure that no one is left without care or a voice.
Each life touched by Project Guardianship is a reminder of why this work matters. The 20th Anniversary celebration not only honored the milestones of the past but also reaffirmed a shared vision for the years ahead—a city where every person is cared for, respected, and seen.
To help sustain this vital mission for the next 20 years and beyond, donations can be made HERE.
View photos from the celebration HERE.