Clarendon
County |
Frequently Asked Questions:
What
is a Volunteer Guardian ad Litem (GAL)?
A
GAL is a trained volunteer child advocate who helps abused children find safe,
permanent, loving homes where they can thrive.
How
do GAL volunteers advocate for
abused children?
A
GAL volunteer finds out what the children want. They learn about their
families, their school progress, and their special needs. The GAL
volunteer works with all agencies involved with the child, including the
Department of Social Services, the Family Court, school and counselors,
to help the child through this process.
Who
can become a Volunteer Guardian ad Litem (GAL)?
Anyone
who has a desire to help abused children, time to spend each month
visiting the child, and the commitment to appear in Court at hearings
and advocate on the child’s behalf. Sensitivity, dedication and common
sense are more important qualities than educational background and work
experience. You
must be 21 years of age or older, and be able to pass background and
reference checks. GAL volunteers of all ages, races, and backgrounds are
welcome.
May I volunteer if I have a full time job?
Yes, many of our GAL’s have full time careers, yet they have enough
flexibility in their schedules to effectively advocate for children
as well. You will need to attend Family Court hearings about your children,
but generally you can arrange other interviews and appointments according
to your schedule.
What
is the process to become a GAL volunteer?
GAL
volunteers undergo a free training program that consists of 30 hours of
classroom training, followed by 12 hours of yearly in-service training.
GAL volunteers learn to work one-on-one with abused children, understand
their special needs, and how to help families overcome the problems that
may have led to abuse and neglect.
What is the role of the GAL
volunteer?
The
GAL volunteer helps determine if the best interest of the child is in
staying with, or returning to, their parents or guardians; being placed
in foster care; or being freed for permanent adoption. GAL volunteers
provide Family Court judges with information about the child’s needs
and desires. This helps the Court make sound decisions about the
child’s Fall. The GAL then follows through with the case until the
child is placed in a safe, permanent home.
How
is the program organized?
The
South Carolina Guardian ad Litem Program is state funded and currently
operates in 45 counties within the state’s 16 judicial circuits. We
are a division of Children’s Services, Office of the Governor.
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