Volunteers needed to help local abused, neglected children in Clarendon and Sumter

STAFF REPORT

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 (GAL) in Clarendon and Sumter counties. Volunteers advocate on behalf of abused and neglected children who are involved in Family Court legal proceedings through the Department of Social Services (DSS).

There are only two free virtual training opportunities remaining this year beginning on 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 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. "We're always looking for dedicated individuals who are passionate about advocating for children," LaDara Depugh, director of the South Carolina GAL program, said in a news release.

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.