Volunteers are needed in Clarendon to help local abused, neglected children

CLARENDON COUNTY - The Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem Program, a division of the South Carolina Department of Children's Advocacy, is offering free online training Feb. 4 to those interested in becoming a volunteer Guardian ad Litem (GAL) in Clarendon County. Volunteers advocate on behalf of abused and neglected children who are involved in Family Court legal proceedings through the Department of Social Services.

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 of their time for a child. "Our volunteers serve as strong advocates, upholding children's best interests and prioritizing their well-being. With every child served needing a voice, the call to action grows for dedicated volunteers to step forward," said Jennifer Burch, director of the Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem Program, in a news release.

Currently the Clarendon GAL Program is serving 64 children, but there are only 13 volunteer GALs to assist. While GAL staff fill in the gaps, the need for more volunteers is urgent.

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.

Contact Brandi Johnson, regional recruiter and trainer for the GAL program, at (843) 731-7622 or brandi.johnson@childadvocate.sc.gov for more information.