Grandparent Resources
By: Source: AARP.org Date Posted: 2004-05-25 16:27:00-04:00
In conjunction with local, state and non-profit agencies, AARP Wyoming has developed this site for the increasing number of grandparent and kinship caregivers across the state. The majority of people come into this role under less than ideal circumstances, including death, abandonment, teenage parenting, substance abuse, incarceration, abuse or neglect.
As a primary caregiver, you may be responsible for the legal, financial, educational and medical decisions regarding your grandchild. And along with about 3,500 other grandparent caregivers in Wyoming, and over 2.4 million grandparent caregivers nationwide, you face the difficult task of gaining the necessary authority required to make those decisions.
We have developed the following materials to assist you in that process.
- One Grandmother's Story
Nita Stephenson of Cheyenne thought she had everything under control when her daughter was dying. But soon Stephenson discovered that her daughter's wishes for her grandson, expressed in her daughter's will weren't enough. - First Steps to Take
A group of Wyoming agencies compiled this checklist of initial steps to help grandparent caregivers avoid difficulties as they navigate the legal, educational and medical systems. - You Are Not Alone – This guide walks you through the legal steps of requesting temporary guardianship so you can work directly with the child(ren)’s school, doctors and dentists.
- Legal Glossary
Here are a few legal terms you might come across as a grandparent caregiver. We've included the definitions and a link to the legal statutes. - Important Questions to Ask in a Family Caregiver Discussion
If you and your family are considering raising a grandchild, here are a few questions to consider before making the decision. - Directory of Services
Find a listing and direct links to various Wyoming legal services, state and non-profit agencies serving grandparent and kinship caregivers.
A print version of this guide will be available through your local senior center and public health office and the following organizations: Wyoming Department of Family Services; Wyoming Department of Health's Aging Division; Prevent Child Abuse Wyoming; Casey Family Programs; Wyoming Senior Citizens, Inc.; Wyoming Legal Services, Inc.; Wyoming Bar Association; and the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) of Laramie County.
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