On Oct. 28, the Guardian ad Litem (GAL) will provide a free virtual training for those interested in becoming a volunteer in Lexington County.

Volunteers advocate on behalf of abused and neglected children who are involved in family court legal proceedings through the Department of Social Services.

According to the South Carolina Bar, guardians ad litem can be appointed by a court or a parent can request the individual. The guardian ad litem is selected in contested custody and visitation cases, adoptions, paternity actions, termination of parental rights and involuntary commitments.

Abuses can include physical, emotional, neglect, abandonment, sexual abuse and financial exploitation.

GAL volunteers become a stable presence in a child’s life until the child finds a safe and permanent home.

In Lexington, the Guardian ad Litem program presently serves 285 children around the region. However, there are currently only six volunteers, making the need for volunteers imperative.

“We’re always looking for dedicated individuals who are passionate about advocating for children,” LaDara Depugh, director of the South Carolina GAL program, said in a press release.

Volunteers must be 21 years old, have no criminal record, have no DSS case history, and are able to contribute four to five hours a month for a child.

Download an application and apply at gal.sc.gov.