News Summary
Asheville is in urgent need of volunteers for the Guardian ad Litem program, which advocates for abused and neglected children in the court system. With 37 children in Buncombe County lacking representation, this is a call to action for local residents to make a meaningful difference. A new volunteer training cohort begins in April, providing essential tools and guidance for those willing to lend a hand. This initiative aims to ensure that every child has a voice in their legal proceedings and support in finding safe homes.
Volunteers Needed in Asheville for Guardian ad Litem Program
Asheville is calling upon its residents to step up and support the community’s most vulnerable members: the children. The North Carolina Guardian ad Litem program is currently seeking volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children navigating the court system. If you’ve ever considered making a difference, this is your chance to be a beacon of hope for those in dire need.
What Is the Guardian ad Litem Program?
The Guardian ad Litem (GAL) program is designed to ensure that children who find themselves in the midst of troubling circumstances, such as substance abuse or domestic violence, have a voice during legal proceedings. Volunteers take on the vital role of being the children’s advocate in court, working tirelessly to help them find safe and nurturing homes. Imagine being the person who stands up for a child when they feel alone and lost – that’s the essence of being a GAL volunteer.
Current Situation in Buncombe County
As it stands, there are currently 326 children enrolled in the program right here in Buncombe County. Unfortunately, a troubling number of 37 children are still without a dedicated volunteer advocate to represent them. With the growing number of children entering state custody, the need is more pressing than ever. In fact, there are over 50 children in Asheville alone who are actively seeking Guardian ad Litem support. It’s a heartbreaking scenario, but it also presents an incredible opportunity for locals to make a lasting impact in a child’s life.
Training Program Details
To meet this increasing demand, a new cohort for volunteer training will be kicking off in April. If you’re considering lending a helping hand, this training program is tailored to equip you with all the necessary tools you’ll need. Over the course of eight weeks, from Monday afternoons from 1-4 p.m., you’ll receive guidance from experienced staff members who are passionate about child advocacy. The training covers everything from the ins and outs of child protection agencies to understanding how the court system operates.
Throughout your time in the program, you’ll have the chance to connect and collaborate with a variety of stakeholders, including foster parents, biological parents, and school personnel. This collaboration is key to ensuring that the best interests of the children are always front and center.
How You Can Get Involved
So, how can you become involved? It’s simple! Those interested in volunteering can reach out to the Guardian ad Litem program via email or phone. Write a message to GAL.DIST40@nccourts.org, or give them a call at (828) 259-3443. You can also apply easily through their website at avl.mx/ekj. The time to act is now – if you’ve been searching for a meaningful way to give back to the Asheville community, this is it!
The Impact You Can Make
Just think about the difference one person can make in a young person’s life. A child’s well-being is often dependent on having a stable support system during challenging times, and a Guardian ad Litem volunteer can be that vital link. By stepping up, you not only advocate for a child but also help shape their future. Your compassion and commitment can give them a sense of security and, most importantly, a chance to thrive.
In summary, Asheville residents have a unique opportunity to be a part of something far larger than themselves. Join the Guardian ad Litem program and help transform the lives of children who need it most. They are counting on you!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- WLOS: Volunteers Needed for Guardian ad Litem Program
- Star News Online: Obituary Listing
- Carolina Coast Online: Regional News Article
- Wikipedia: Child Advocacy
- Britannica: Child Protection
- Google Search: Guardian ad Litem Program
Author: STAFF HERE ASHEVILLE WRITER
ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER The ASHEVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAsheville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Asheville, Buncombe County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Asheville Bread Festival, LEAF Festival, and mountain sports tournaments at Biltmore Estate. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Asheville Area Chamber of Commerce and Explore Asheville Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in hospitality and brewing that power the local economy such as the Biltmore Estate and Sierra Nevada Brewing Company. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
