Guardian ad Litem Program-Palm Beach County, Florida - (561) 355-2773

A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) is a trained, court-appointed volunteer who advocates objectively and solely for the best interests of children who are abused, abandoned or neglected and who are involved in dependency court proceedings.

The Guardian ad Litem Program is central to fulfilling society’s most fundamental obligation by making sure a qualified, compassionate adult will fight for and protect a child’s basic human right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and respect and to learn and grow in the safe embrace of a loving family.

Abused, abandoned and neglected children deserve a voice. More than any other children, these children need someone to Speak Up! for their lives and futures. Guardians ad Litem are the children’s voice in Court; they Speak Up! for the children who otherwise have no voice.

What is a Guardian ad Litem Volunteer?
A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) is a trained, court-appointed volunteer who advocates objectively and solely for the best interests of children who are abused, abandoned or neglected and who are involved in dependency court proceedings. The volunteer GAL makes independent recommendations to the court by focusing on the needs of each child. The GAL advocates for each child’s best interest – their emotional, physical, educational, environmental and social wellbeing. A GAL serves as the eyes, ears and arms of the justice system. They identify the best possible result for each child who has been removed from their home and made a child of the state.

What do GALs do?
•Gather information through visits with the child
•Conduct interviews with people associated with the child, such as parents, caregivers and all social and medical service providers
•Attend hearings on the child’s behalf
•Make recommendations to the judge, directly impacting the outcome of children's lives and futures
•GALs literally “speak up” for the children of our community; for our future.

Who can become a GAL?
As long as you are at least 21 years of age and willing to help, more than likely there is an opportunity for you to directly impact children's lives!

GALs need only:
•Possess a strong desire to help children (no legal background required)
•Demonstrate good judgment and common sense
•Exhibit good communication skills
•Provide favorable references and consent to a background check
•Complete 30 hours of training
•Dedicate 8-10 hours a month

How Do I Get Started?
Call the Palm Beach County GAL Recruiter at 561-355-6224, visit www.GALPBC.org, or get started now! Simply complete the contact form, and the GAL office will contact you.

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Tags: Child Protective Services