We regularly host, sponsor and support a variety of events that provide community outreach, increase awareness of our program, help recruit new volunteers, raise funds and furnish training to our volunteer guardians ad litem. The following event was added to our calendar.

• Souper Bowl III
  Special
  Thursday, February 2, 2017

You can also browse and access events on our calendar grid.

Two articles about our program recently appeared in the Tallahassee Democrat. We are fortunate to have these articles published to help us raise awareness of and support for our program.

The articles are reproduced below. Thank you to the Tallahassee Democrat for sharing our program with their readers.

Guardian ad Litem offers training sessions
by Sara Blumenthal

Tallahassee Democrat
Monday, December 19, 2016

The Guardian ad Litem program will host a volunteer training starting Jan. 9 from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Leon County Courthouse Annex at 1920 Thomasville Road.

The Guardian ad Litem (GAL) program is a volunteer-based organization that advocates for abused and neglected children within the court system and community.

"We are in need of community members to stand up for children in need," said GAL circuit director Deborah Moore. "We look forward to people joining us to make a difference in the life of a child."

Volunteers, who the program estimates spend 8 to 10 hours per month volunteering, ensure local children receive the services they need while in the child welfare system. They speak up for the children in the court, schools and community. Children who have a GAL advocate are more likely to find permanent safe home sooner and have a brighter, more successful future.

"The impact we have on our children and families is immense," said retired educator and GAL volunteer Carolyn Spooner. "I know every day I am making a difference. What more can you ask for?"

The six-night training will occur from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 9; Thursday, Jan. 12; Wednesday, Jan. 18; Thursday Jan. 19; Monday, Jan. 23 and Thursday, Jan. 26. During the training, community members will learn how to be effective advocates and discover ways to work to make a difference in the lives of local children who have been abused or neglected.

For more information or to learn how to get involved, people are encouraged to visit www.gal2.org or contact Sara Blumenthal at 850-606-1213 or [email protected].

Letter: Guardian ad Litem program needs your help, your time
by Sara Blumenthal

Tallahassee Democrat
Tuesday, December 20, 2016

During this season of giving, one of the most precious gifts you can give to someone is your time. Time is a gift that is needed by so many in the community. There are a number of organizations whose volunteers make a difference every day. The Guardian ad Litem Program is one such.

We know the difference time can make. Guardians ad Litem advocate in the community and court system for local abused and neglected children. Volunteers spend 8 to 10 hours a month ensuring the best interests of the children are heard and served.

The dedication of these volunteers allows the children to have more positive outcomes and to find a permanent safe home sooner. The time spent shows these children that the community cares.

While we celebrate this season with friends and families, let us remember those not as fortunate. Let us remember that if we give our time and our heart, we can change that.

For more information on how you can help, visit www.GAL2.org or call 606-1213.

Sara Blumenthal, [email protected]

We regularly host, sponsor and support a variety of events that provide community outreach, increase awareness of our program, help recruit new volunteers, raise funds and furnish training to our volunteer guardians ad litem. The following event was added to our calendar.

• CAII Cupcakes and Cookies for Kids
  Fundraising
  Saturday, March 25, 2017

You can also browse and access events on our calendar grid.