A safe, permanent home isn't something that a child should only dream about...

Give Hope to a Child.

Kershaw County

Frequently Asked Questions:
What is a Volunteer Guardian ad Litem (GAL)?
A GAL is a trained volunteer child advocate who helps abused children find safe, permanent, loving homes where they can thrive.
How do GAL volunteers advocate for abused children?
A GAL volunteer finds out what the children want. They learn about their families, their school progress, and their special needs. The GAL volunteer works with all agencies involved with the child, including the Department of Social Services, the Family Court, school and counselors, to help the child through this process.
Who can become a Volunteer Guardian ad Litem (GAL)?
Anyone who has a desire to help abused children, time to spend each month visiting the child, and the commitment to appear in Court at hearings and advocate on the child’s behalf. Sensitivity, dedication and common sense are more important qualities than educational background and work experience. You must be 21 years of age or older, and be able to pass background and reference checks. GAL volunteers of all ages, races, and backgrounds are welcome. 
May I volunteer if I have a full time job?
Yes, many of our GAL’s have full time careers, yet they have enough flexibility in their schedules to effectively advocate for children as well. You will need to attend Family Court hearings about your children, but generally you can arrange other interviews and appointments according to your schedule.
What is the process to become a GAL volunteer?
GAL volunteers undergo a free training program that consists of 30 hours of classroom training, followed by 12 hours of yearly in-service training. GAL volunteers learn to work one-on-one with abused children, understand their special needs, and how to help families overcome the problems that may have led to abuse and neglect.
What is the role of the GAL volunteer?
The GAL volunteer helps determine if the best interest of the child is in staying with, or returning to, their parents or guardians; being placed in foster care; or being freed for permanent adoption. GAL volunteers provide Family Court judges with information about the child’s needs and desires. This helps the Court make sound decisions about the child’s Fall. The GAL then follows through with the case until the child is placed in a safe, permanent home.
How is the program organized?
The South Carolina Guardian ad Litem Program is state funded and currently operates in 45 counties within the state’s 16 judicial circuits. We are a division of Children’s Services, Office of the Governor.

Our next training session starts:

April 19, 2010. Call for details.
Who can become a volunteer GAL?
Why be a volunteer? Read our Top 10 List!
Learn about our free training program.
How GAL's make a difference for
Nate & Emily.
Questions? Try our FAQ!
Ready to start helping? Download an application in PDF Format or Word Format.
or call Elizabeth May at 425-1412.

Kershaw County Volunteer 
Guardian ad Litem Program
Elizabeth May, Coordinator
5170 Woodside Court
Camden, SC 29020
425-1412
volunteer@Kershaw.scgal.org

Listing of other counties

Kershaw Home Page

South Carolina Volunter Guardian ad Litem Program

*Courtesy of SC Department of Social Services