A Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Child Advocate is an ordinary person doing extraordinary work to protect and promote the best interests of children who, through no fault of their own, find themselves in court due to allegations of abuse, neglect and dependency.

As an independent party, Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Child Advocates are court appointed special advocates, gathering information and making recommendations to the court concerning the child’s needs for safety and stability and for their physical, mental and emotional health and well being.

Each and every day I am amazed and inspired by the selfless work our volunteers do on behalf of children’s best interests. Our volunteers go above and beyond for children each and every day. They make the time to devote to make sure their visits with the child are meaningful, or to communicate with teachers and counselors to assess the child’s needs, or to sit down with parents to hear how things are going.

While Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Child Advocates come from all walks of life, they all share a passion to make a difference in the lives of abused, neglected and dependent children. For both the children and for the Guardian ad Litem Volunteer advocating for them, the experience can be life-changing.

As of January 11, 2012, the Guardian ad Litem Program in Surry County was 17 volunteers strong and representing 27 children. While that seems remarkable, our work is far from over. There are still more than 21 children who need a Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Child Advocate. This work can only be done with the support of our local community. What better way can local citizens contribute to the improvement of our community than to volunteer on behalf of a child? It is the hardest job you’ll ever love. Are you ready to take the challenge?

If you’d like to learn more, please call 386-4090 for more information or visit: www.ncgal.org

Teresa McCrary

Program Specialist

Judicial District 17B

Surry County