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| | | Gov. Michael Easley proclaims April as N.C. Guardian ad Litem Child Advocate Month to honor 25 years of service | | |  View Gov. Michael Easley's proclamation
Gov. Easley's proclamation (spanish version)
[RALEIGH] – Gov. Easley has proclaimed April as N.C. Guardian ad Litem Child Advocate Month in recognition of the program’s 25th anniversary of protecting and promoting the best interests of children in abuse and neglect court proceedings. While appreciating advocates who have donated nearly 900,000 hours of service to children in all 100 counties, the proclamation also serves as a reminder of the immense need for more volunteers.
“Guardian ad Litem volunteers come from a variety of backgrounds to act as advocates for abused and neglected children in the complicated and often unfamiliar court and child welfare systems,” said Governor Mike Easley. “This month I encourage all North Carolinians to honor the many Guardians ad Litem who donate their time to enhance the quality of life for our children.”
Established by the N.C. Legislature in 1983, the mission of the Guardian ad Litem program is to provide trained, independent advocates to represent and promote the best interests of abused, neglected and dependent children in the state court system, and to work towards a plan that ensures that these children are in a safe, permanent home. Statewide, 64 offices, approximately 100 attorneys, and more than 4,614 volunteer Guardians ad Litem work as a team to represent 17,701 children. However, more volunteers are needed to ensure that every child has someone to speak on their behalf.
“Each and every day, dedicated volunteers, attorneys and Guardian ad Litem staff make a profound difference in the lives of children across the state. They do so by providing children with a voice,” said Jane Volland, administrator of the Guardian ad Litem program. “We are proud to be celebrating 25 years of service. While we salute those who already give selflessly of their time and heart, we urge the public to look for ways to get involved and volunteer their time as well.”
Volunteerism is the backbone of the N.C. Guardian ad Litem program. The vital work of the program is only made possible by people in the community who have learned how good it can feel to help others and help prevent children from future harm. To rise to the challenge and become a much-needed volunteer for the Guardian ad Litem program, visit www.ncgal.org, or call 1-800-982-4041. | | | | Publish Date: 04/10/2008 |
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