Over 1000 children in Pinellas County need someone to be their voice in the courtroom and to advocate for them in the child welfare system. The Guardian ad Litem program hopes that could be you.
As a Guardian ad Litem, you advocate for an abused, abandoned or neglected children in the family courts and the child welfare system. The Guardian ad Litem has special programs where you can advocate to ensure services are provided for the teens transitioning out of the foster care system or help expedite an adoption. The average time needed is six to eight hours a month.
As a child's advocate, a Guardian ad Litem becomes familiar with the child and case and makes recommendations to the court to help ensure the child has a safe, caring and stable environment.
If you have less time to offer, you can check up monthly on a child who is under court jurisdiction, but currently in a safe and stable placement.
Guardians receive training and ongoing assistance to help them make a positive difference in the lives of children. Half the training is now offered online. To volunteer, call 464-6528. For information, go to www.guardianadlitem6.org.
