Serving Barnwell County and its neighbors since 1852
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 Bamberg and Barnwell 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).
The first free virtual training opportunity of the 2025 year begins on January 7, 2025.
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 of your time for a child.
Currently the Barnwell/Bamberg GAL Program is serving 30 children, but there are only 5 volunteer GALs to assist. While GAL staff fill in the gaps, the need for more volunteers is urgent.
“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,” says Jennifer Burch, Director of the Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem 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.
Contact Sarah Schultz, Recruitment and Training Coordinator for the GAL program, at (803) 365-3379 or Sarah.Schultz@childadvocate.sc.gov for more information.
