There are multiple ways everyday people can work to make a difference in their community by helping a child in need.
One opportunity where you can have an impact is to become a volunteer with the Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Program. GAL volunteers dedicate a small amount of time to make huge differences in the lives of abused and neglected children.
GALs are appointed by Family Court judges to represent every child who appears in Family Court because of abuse or neglect. Each child needs someone who will speak up clearly and with determination for what is best for the child.
GAL volunteers must complete a free 30-hour training program, pass a background check and be at least 21 years old. During the training, they learn about the process of finding a safe and permanent home for each child as quickly as possible. Volunteers are the voice of the child in the courtroom. Through their written report, GALs inform the judge of the child’s wishes and what they feel is in the child’s best interest.
It takes one person to make a difference in a child’s life. To learn more about the GAL Program in South Carolina and how you can be that person, contact Lisa Crawford at the Lexington County GAL office 803-957-6484 or gal.sc.gov.
