Free Online Training for Volunteers to Advocate for Abused and Neglected Children in Laurens County
June 29, 2024
The Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem Program, a division of the South Carolina Department of Children’s Advocacy, is offering free online training sessions for those interested in becoming a volunteer Guardian ad Litem (GAL) in Laurens County. This program provides an opportunity for volunteers to advocate on behalf of abused and neglected children involved in Family Court legal proceedings through the Department of Social Services (DSS).
There are only four free virtual training opportunities remaining this year, starting on August 13, 2024, September 3, 2024, October 1, 2024, and October 28, 2024. Volunteers must be at least 21 years old, have a clean criminal record, no previous DSS case history, and be able to contribute four to five hours a month for a child.
Currently, the Laurens GAL Program is serving 183 children, but there are only 19 volunteer GALs to assist. While GAL staff fill in the gaps, the need for more volunteers is urgent. “We’re always looking for dedicated individuals who are passionate about advocating for children,” says LaDara Depugh, Director of the South Carolina GAL program.
For more information and to download an application, visit gal.sc.gov. Follow @Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem Program on Facebook or contact [email protected] to be added to the newsletter for updates and local events in your area.
Contact Erin Petrella, Regional Recruiter and Trainer for the GAL program, at (864) 381-3725 or [email protected] for more information.
