Lifelong Advocacy Service
By Their Side is a family-funded 501(c)(3) charitable organization guided by a volunteer Board of Directors who are responsible for setting fees that assure By Their Side remains in a position to fulfill its commitment to provide lifelong advocacy for its members. The Board monitors conservative investment of membership fees for growth and conducts periodic actuarial studies to determine current rates.
The pre-funded Lifelong Advocacy Service provides By Their Side members with an annual assessment visit for their lifetime beginning upon the passing of sponsoring parents or other sponsor. Upon enrollment, By Their Side meets with the family and their relative to gather information to guide future advocacy - history, needs, preferences, and specific advocacy concerns. When services begin, an experienced advocate is assigned who makes an annual visit, typically at the time of the annual planning meeting, follows up to address identified concerns, and provides an update report to sibling or trustee. This annual service continues for the lifetime of the member.
John's Story
In 1984, John's parents enrolled him in By Their Side, and each year since his parents passed away, John's advocate has attended his annual planning meeting or visited him at home. The informaton gathered from John's parents has helped guide John's advocate and ensure continuity in his life. She asks for update on health issues and suggests weekend outings and vacations reflecting John's interests. When his residential staff change, his advocate provides vendor information to replace John's specialized shoes when needed, and assures he continues to have the opportunity to play bocce ball, a favorite activity. She provides updates to John's brother, and is available for questions or to increase monitoring visits through an Advocacy Plan when requested.
Current Rates*
One Time Fee:
Sponsors: $4,500
Sibling Sponsors: $2,250
Because lifelong services being upon the passing of the sibling sponsor who is an age peer, this service primarily offers the benefit of a safety net and access to reduced rates for Advocacy Plan services.
Annual Fee:
An additional $50 annual fee is required while the sponsor is living.