Volunteer Opportunities
GAL Volunteer Advocate
Volunteer Child Advocates are everyday citizens trained and court certified to represent the best interest 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 in social service and legal areas of expertise.
The Role of a 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 1st Judicial Circuit’s four counties, a variety of expertise (such as marketing, public relations, legal, finance, management, fund-raising, event planning, and business ownership), and reflect our regions ethnic and racial diversity.
Special Events
The foundation often needs volunteers to help with planning and conducting special events aimed at raising funds to benefit our region’s abused and neglected children.