Guardian ad Litem is a unique public-private partnership which trains and supports volunteer advocates (known as a Guardians ad Litem) to speak up for the best interests of abused and neglected children. A Guardian ad Litem is trained to work within the child welfare and family court systems and are appointed by judges to individual cases. With the help of a Guardian ad Litem volunteer, a child is half as likely to languish in foster care, and that much more likely to find a safe and permanent home.
We do our best to match volunteers with cases that fit their skills and interests, and want to add more men to our volunteer roster. Do you work well with younger kids? One-third of our cases involve these most vulnerable children. Do you speak teenager? Then help us reach older youth! Do you have a background in the medical field? We need people with your experience to help untangle years of untreated symptoms. What about education? Help us ensure that each child has the tools s/he needs to become a successful adult. Use what you know--and love--to serve kids who so desperately need someone to fight for them.
This is one of few opportunities where a single, caring person can make a real difference in the life of a vulnerable child. Every child deserves the right to thrive, the right to be treated with dignity, and to live in a safe, loving home. Become a Guardian ad Litem volunteer to ensure that every child gets a fighting chance!
Guardians ad Litem devote, on average, 8-12 hours a month to their case sometimes more depending on the case. While much of their work can be scheduled at the Guardian's convenience (like meeting with the child or obtaining records), volunteers do need to have occasional daytime availability for court appearances. These court appearances are scheduled well in advance and usually occur on Monday through Friday afternoons.
In order to qualify as a Guardian ad Litem volunteer, applicants must be at least 21 years of age and have a background clear of felony charges, domestic violence convictions, or any history of child endangerment.
Guardians ad Litem complete 30 hours of pre-service training and are supported by a dedicated staff, including case coordinators and program lawyers.
Guardians ad Litem come from all walks of life but have a few things in common: good judgment, determination, an inquisitive mind, and a heart for children and youth in need. If that's you, attend one of our monthly information session by calling 954-831-6214 or click on the I want to help button and we will get right back to you.
If you'd like to submit an online volunteer application, type this link in your browser:
612 S. Andrews Avenue, Sutie 1000, Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33301, US
Mission Statement
Program Mission: " Heartfelt Child Advocacy."
Description
The Guardian Ad Litem Program advocates for the best interest of the children alleged to be abused, abandoned, or neglected who are involved in court proceedings. The program uses a team approach to advocate for the children, lay volunteers, child advocate coordinators, and attorneys. Together we collect comprehensive information about the child and family, attend staffings and hearings, and take steps to further the child’s best interests. Our volunteers visit the child monthly in the home environment and make recommendations to the court as to the child’s best interests, and inform the court of the child’s wishes. We also monitor the child’s safety and well-being, as well as significant changes in the parents’ lives, which could impact the child’s safety.
Advocacy & Human Rights
Children & Youth
Justice & Legal
WHEN
We'll work with your schedule.
WHERE
612 S. Andrews AvenueSuite 1000Fort Lauderdale, FL33301
