Goldsboro, N.C. — April marks National Child Abuse Prevention Month and North Carolina Guardian ad Litem Child Advocate Month, and the North Carolina Guardian ad Litem Program in the 9th Judicial District is calling on community members to step forward and become volunteer advocates for children experiencing abuse and neglect.
Guardian ad Litem (GAL) volunteers are everyday individuals from all walks of life who receive specialized training to advocate for children in foster care. These volunteers serve as a consistent, supportive presence for children navigating uncertain and often difficult circumstances.
“Being a Guardian ad Litem means being a steady, constant presence in a child’s life when so much around them is scary and changing,” said Mary Dugan, Guardian ad Litem Volunteer Advocate. “Caseworkers change, homes change, and situations change… but we don’t. Over time, you build a relationship, and there’s nothing quite like seeing a child’s face light up when they see you walk in—knowing they recognize someone who is there just for them.”
Dugan shared that she recently saw a case conclude with adoption after nearly three years of advocacy.
“It was emotional and so fulfilling — and we’re still in touch, a bond for life,” she said.
GAL volunteers are typically assigned to one child or sibling group and advocate for their best interests in court, school, and other areas of their lives. Volunteers work closely with parents, foster families, teachers, therapists, and caseworkers to develop a comprehensive understanding of each child’s situation. They also help build support networks to ensure families have access to resources even after a case closes.
“There is always a need for more GAL volunteers,” said GAL Program Specialist Laura Rivera. “By becoming a volunteer, you can take your efforts beyond just awareness and do your part to help support children and families in crisis right here in our community.”
When reunification is not possible, volunteers help identify safe, stable placements for children, including relatives, family friends, or other trusted adults who can provide a healthy and supportive environment while maintaining connections to the child’s home community.
“We at the 9th Judicial Guardian ad Litem program are grateful for our GAL volunteers who are changing lives by providing children a voice in court,” Rivera added. “We will continue to seek more members of the community to join our growing movement so that we can provide a GAL volunteer for every child who needs one.”
The program encourages community members to consider becoming a volunteer advocate this April. The next virtual training session for new volunteers is scheduled to begin May 7, 2026.
April is also a time to raise awareness about preventing child abuse. Anyone who suspects abuse is encouraged to report concerns to their local Department of Social Services. If a child is in immediate danger, call 911.
For more information about becoming a Guardian ad Litem volunteer, visit www.volunteerforgal.org or call 252-520-5452 or 919-722-6300.
