What is a Guardian Ad Litem volunteer?
A Guardian ad Litem (GAL) is trained volunteer who is appointed by the court to advocate for the best interests of an abused and neglected child. Guardian ad Litem volunteers come from all walks of life and have a variety of professional, educational and ethnic backgrounds. No special education or experience is required. Throughout North Carolina, we always need more volunteers to be a voice for the children who find themselves the subject of court cases. We provide training to make sure you are at ease in your role, and as a volunteer Guardian ad Litem you will be in court as a team member with a trained attorney advocate. Since 1983, the North Carolina Guardian ad Litem (GAL) program has served the best interests of thousands of children. Many were able to return home, some now live with other family members, still others have been adopted. What we try to ensure is that all of the children we represent remain safe, and that their homes are permanent.
I have been a GAL for about 4 1/2 years
and have loved every minute of it. Although it is a volunteer position, it is not one to be taken lightly. The decisions one makes are life altering. I had a great working career but the GAL position ranks number one. It is very satisfying, rewarding and humbling. Joining the GAL team will be one of the best decisions you will ever make. It was for me. ~ Mischelle, retired IBM contract administrator, age 57 |
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 HELP ME FIND A FOREVER FAMILY
In 2010 alone, 4,919 trained GAL volunteers represented 15,373 children in 43,988 court hearings. Through this representation, GALs helped many children find permanent homes. Unfortunately, there are still plenty of children in need of permanence and YOU can help!
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 HELP ME GO TO COLLEGE
As a volunteer GAL you can also help children successfully transition into adulthood. You can advocate for teens in search of employment, higher education and independent living.
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Guardian ad Litem, District 15B / 501 W. Franklin St., Ste.104 Chapel Hill, NC 27516 / T (919) 968-2088/ F (919) 968-2069 / email quincy.l.ellzey@nccourts.org
