VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
Become a GAL Volunteer Advocate
Volunteer Child Advocates are everyday citizens trained and court certified to represent the best interests of abused, neglected, and abandoned children in court, school, the child welfare system and the community. Each volunteer is trained, court-appointed through the program, and supported by staff trained in social service and legal areas of expertise.
The Role of the Volunteer Advocate
- MONITOR the progress of the case until a safe permanent home is achieved
- VISIT the child at least once a month to be sure he/she is safe
- ASSESS the service needs and opinions of the child
- COLLECT information from key people in the child’s life, e.g., extended family, caregivers, teachers, etc. to help guide recommendations
- MAKE RECOMMENDATIONS to the court and case management providers regarding the best interests of the child
Who? Anyone who cares about the well-being of children and meets the following criteria:
- Florida Resident
- At least 21 years old with common sense and good judgement
- Provide favorable references and consent to a background check
- Has computer access and basic user skills
- Complete the screening and training process
Foundation Board of Directors
We are always open to considering new members with a commitment to the Guardian ad Litem mission. We strive to maintain a balance of members who represent each of the 12th Judicial Circuit’s five counties, a variety of expertise (such as marketing, public relations, legal, finance, management, fund-raising, event planning, and business ownership), and reflect our region’s ethnic and racial diversity.
Volunteer for the Foundation Special Events
The Foundation often needs volunteers to help with planning and conducting special events aimed at raising funds to benefit out region’s abused and neglected children.
