Kim DelGaudio
Guardian Ad Litems advocate for abused, neglected kids
November is a month for reflection, as we celebrate Thanksgiving with our families and count our blessings. November also is National Adoption Month, a good time to reflect on children who may celebrate Thanksgiving in a foster home and dream of finding a forever family. A time for contemplating children’s rights to grow and thrive in a permanent home.
Marie Fraser is the Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) for a child who has been in the foster care system for almost two years. The child was abused by a family member and has mental health issues. She has been in six placements, is on several medications and frequently lashes out at people around her. Her parents have surrendered their rights and the young teen is available for adoption.
Marie faithfully visits the child at least once a month, always checking with the doctors and therapists who work with her to make sure she is getting appropriate care. Many times when Marie visits, the child refuses to talk to her, but Marie continues her visits and advocating for the child’s rights.
Recently, Marie received a card written on pink-and-white construction paper that read: “I know I wasn’t such a good girl. But now I am and I’m sorry for treating you wrong … I just wanted you to know that now I understand you care a lot for me and I care for you too … Thanks for everything, and most of all, thanks for not giving up on me …You’re the best GAL I could ever ask for. ”
Marie hopes the girl finds a forever family soon. She will not give up.
A Guardian Ad Litem is a court-appointed advocate for children who have been abused, abandoned or neglected and are now involved in the court system. Children who have a GAL get through the system faster and with more success than children without a GAL. Brevard has 219 volunteers advocating for 630 children. Half of the GALs in Brevard are age 60 and older; half are employed.