Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Child Advocates

Guardians ad Litem (GALs) represent and advocate for the best interests of children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse and/or neglect. These children are consequently placed in either relative, non-relative or foster care. GALs work within a multidisciplinary team including a GAL Program Attorney representing the child's legal interests and a Child Advocate Manger who is a certified child welfare professional and community resource specialist. GALs meet with their children at least once a month and work collaboratively gathering information from parents, family members, caregivers, foster parents, educators and service providers to make best interests recommendations to the Court. GALs work diligently to ensure children's needs are met and that any barriers to a child’s reunification with parents or adoption are addressed.

No formal education is required; our volunteers come from all walks of life and have very diverse backgrounds just like our kids.

Most training is offered remotely on our online academy. A case requires on average 10 - 15 hours a month and a 12 - 18 month time commitment. Once certified, GAL volunteers then attend court hearings and submit reports to the court as part of a multidisciplinary advocacy team.

This will be one of the most rewarding volunteer roles you've ever had--to help children and families in our own community!