Become a Guardian ad Litem Volunteer

Find out how a small amount of your time can make all the difference in the life of an abused, neglected or abandoned child. Call the Voices for Kids office at (239) 997-KIDS (9437) to learn more about becoming a volunteer Guardian. You may also call 1-866-341-1GAL statewide number or visit http://gal.fl.gov for more information.

What does a Guardian ad Litem do?

Let children know they are heard

See that a child is safe

Work with case managers and community service agencies to make sure a child's physical, medical, educational, emotional and social needs are met

What is required?

Be at least 19 years of age

Complete a training program facilitated by the Guardian ad Litem Program staff

Pass a criminal background check

Be available approximately six hours per month

Be able to appear in court once every six months

Click here for the GAL Volunteer Application Form!

Click here for the Public Records Statement!

Become the VOICE for our most vulnerable citizens – children!

Every year, more than 40,000 children in Florida are involved in court cases. Not one of them committed a single crime.

Many of these children are the victims of abuse, abandonment or neglect. They feel betrayed, alone and afraid. Some face life threatening circumstances at home, others are ignored and neglected by the very people who should care most about them.

These children are thrust into a judicial system that is confusing and overwhelming to many adults. Too often, their small voices go unheard by the court and state agencies that are required to consider many competing interests. These children desperately need a caring, compassionate person who will advocate solely for them – for their safety, security and happiness.

Government alone cannot solve the problem. Floridians – young and old, working and retired, single and married with families – need to get involved. Working in partnership with the courts, state and local government agencies, and non-profit and faith-based organizations, a Volunteer Guardian ad Litem can make the difference in the life and future of a child.