New Guardian ad Litem volunteers sworn in

Yadkin County now has two new Guardian ad Litem volunteers. Judge Laura Luffman swore in Malaya Caudill recently and Judge Donna Shumate swore in Ted Godwin.

Guardians ad Litem are volunteer child advocates appointed by the court to make sure abused and neglected children in the foster care system have a voice in how their case progresses. GAL Child Advocates give abused and neglected children in foster care a voice in court and advocate for their best interest. NC Judicial Branch District 34 Guardian ad Litem Program serves approximately 300 children from birth to age 18 in Yadkin, Wilkes, Alleghany, and Ashe counties. Additional volunteers are needed.

GAL Child Advocates do not take children into their homes like a traditional “guardian” would do. NCGAL volunteers are appointed by a judge to meet with children on a regular basis to talk with them about how they’re doing and if they have any needs or wishes.

These child advocates also speak with the children’s social workers, caregivers, teachers, therapists, parents, and others to advocate for the children’s needs and best interest.

The goal is for the children to have permanency in a safe and healthy home.

For more information on how to be the voice for a child in the community, visit VolunteerforGAL.org or call Yadkin program supervisor Cathy Davidson at 336-937-2623.