CHARLESTON — The Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem Program, a division of the South Carolina Department of Children’s Advocacy is offering free online training to those interested in becoming a volunteer Guardian ad Litem, or GAL, in Orangeburg and Calhoun counties. Volunteers advocate on behalf of abused and neglected children who are involved in Family Court legal proceedings through the Department of Social Services.
There are only four free virtual training opportunities remaining this year beginning on Aug. 13, Sept. 3, Oct. 1 and Oct. 28.
Volunteers should 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 Orangeburg/Calhoun GAL Program is serving 194 children, but there are only nine volunteer GALs to assist. While GAL staff fill in the gaps, the need for more volunteers is urgent.
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“We’re always looking for dedicated individuals who are passionate about advocating for children,” says LaDara Depugh, director of the South Carolina GAL program.
Visit gal.sc.gov for more information and to download an application. Follow @Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem Program on Facebook or contact communications@childadvocate.sc.gov to be added to the newsletter for updates and local events in your area.
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Contact David McAlhaney, regional recruiter and trainer for the GAL program, at 843-277-5849 or David.McAlhaney@childadvocate.sc.gov for more information.
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