The Guardian ad Litem program in Hernando and Citrus counties is in desperate need of volunteers to advocate for abused, neglected or abandoned children whose cases are in the court system.

  • GALs assigned to a child's case act as advocates
  • Contact (352) 812-6971 or email Diana.hollwedel@gal.fl.gov for more info

A Guardian ad Litem, also known as 'GAL,' is a trained volunteer appointed by the court to advocate on behalf of a child.

The GAL becomes familiar with the child’s case and makes recommendations to help ensure a safe, stable and permanent environment for the child.

“Over 675 children in Citrus and Hernando Counties have been removed from their homes due to abuse, abandonment or neglect," said Marcia Hilty, circuit director of GAL Program for 5th Judicial Circuit.

"GAL volunteers make a profound difference in the life of these children by helping judges decide whether a child should be reunited with his or her family," continued Hilty, "remain in foster care or in the worst of circumstances, placed for adoption. They make sure important services are provided. Simply put, a GAL volunteer makes sure everyone does what is best for the child.”

Research has shown that when a child whose case is being heard in dependency court is assigned to a GAL volunteer, they spend less time in foster care and do better in school.

But right now, there are way more children in the system than volunteers ready serve.

Eligible volunteers must be 21 years of age or older (adults between 19 and 21 years are eligible to work alongside a certified volunteer GAL), successfully complete the pre-service training program and be cleared of any serious criminal history via a level II criminal background check. A GAL must complete 30 hours of pre-service training.

On average, volunteers should expect to spend 10-15 hours a month on a case, and most cases last 10-12 months. The volunteer works as part of a team, including a volunteer supervisor and program attorney.

To become a volunteer contact Diana Hollwedel at (352) 812-6971 or email Diana.hollwedel@gal.fl.gov