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  • 1 person is interested
 

Volunteer Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) / Child Advocate

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ORGANIZATION: Whatcom County Juvenile Court

  • 1 person is interested
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Be a Voice for a Child’s Future

Every child deserves a advocate; someone who listens, understands, and fights for their best interests. As a Volunteer Guardian ad Litem (GAL), you’ll be that voice for children navigating the court system, many of whom are facing uncertainty, and in some cases, trauma from neglect or abuse.

Your work will give these children a chance to feel seen, heard, and supported.You’ll build connections, advocate for their needs, and provide vital recommendations to help judges make informed decisions about their care and future.

You don’t need legal experience-just compassion, a commitment to helping others, and the desire to create change.

We’ll provide the training, resources, and guidance to ensure you can succeed in this impactful role.

Technical Requirements:

  • Must be at least 21 years old.
  • Possess a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Be of high moral character and pass a comprehensive background check.
  • Maintain strict confidentiality of all client and court information.
  • Attend and complete a 40-hour pre-service training program.
  • Commit to 12 hours of in-service training annually.
  • Have the ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing.
  • Be able to work semi-independently while maintaining regular contact with program staff.
  • Be comfortable meeting with children and adults from diverse backgrounds.
  • Have reliable transportation to visit children and attend court proceedings or meetings.
  • Demonstrate objectivity and professionalism in all interactions.
Feel free to invite your friends and make an impact together! Ready to be the voice a child needs? Reach out to join our next training session!

2 More opportunities with Whatcom County Juvenile Court

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About Whatcom County Juvenile Court

Location:

311 Grand Ave, Ste 501, Bellingham, WA 98225, US

Mission Statement

The Whatcom County Juvenile Court, in collaboration with the Washington Association of Child Advocate Programs (WACAP), runs the Volunteer Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Program to advocate for children and individuals in need of a voice in court.

Description

The program's mission is to ensure that every person requiring advocacy receives compassionate and thorough representation, helping them achieve safety, stability, and brighter futures. GAL volunteers are trained community members who gather information, connect with children and their families, and prepare recommendations for judges to make informed decisions about their care.

Our goals include empowering individuals during challenging times, supporting volunteers with robust training and resources, and promoting safe, permanent solutions.

Over the years, GAL volunteers have changed countless lives by providing a consistent, reliable presence for children and others facing difficult situations. Through teamwork with attorneys, social workers, and program staff, volunteer GALs are key to fostering fair and just outcomes for those they serve.

Join us in making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and individuals in our community.

CAUSE AREAS

Advocacy & Human Rights
Children & Youth
Justice & Legal
Advocacy & Human Rights, Children & Youth, Justice & Legal

WHEN

We'll work with your schedule.

WHERE

311 Grand AvenueSuite 501Bellingham, WA 98225

(48.75433,-122.48027)
 

SKILLS

  • Child Welfare
  • Advocacy
  • Child Development
  • Child Advocacy
  • Relationship Building
  • Verbal / Written Communication

GOOD FOR

N/A

REQUIREMENTS

  • Background Check
  • Must be at least 21
  • Orientation or Training
  • As a Volunteer GAL, commit 10-15 hours/month for visits, interviews, and reports. Attend court hearings and ongoing training (40-hour pre-service + 12 hours/year). Flexible workload with 1-3 cases.
  • Strong interpersonal skills to connect with children and adults Willingness to navigate sensitive situations with empathy and professionalism. Ability to meet deadlines for court reports and hearings. Commitment to ongoing learning and growth

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