Can you speak for Kia?
“I wish this work wasn’t necessary but as long as there are children who need my help, I feel I have to do it.” That is the philosophy of one South Carolina volunteer guardian ad litem as he explained it to members of the community—just like you—who were training to become guardians ad litem (GALs), volunteers who are specially trained to advocate for children who enter DSS protection. This veteran GAL attended a training session to share his experience. He described the case of Kia, a teenage girl who was neglected by her mother.
Over a 2 year period, Kia had lived in 3 different foster homes, attending school in 3 different school districts. Kia’s mother did not call or visit. Kia’s grades suffered and her attitude deteriorated.
The GAL visited Kia in each of the foster homes. He met with her teachers and guidance counselors. Because he had gotten to know her over time, he was able to suggest possible extra-curricular activities that matched her interests while offering a wholesome outlet for her anger and frustration.
Whether or not Kia would remain in foster care was not known, but either way, she needed to begin thinking about her future after high school. The GAL’s college alma mater was offering a one day planning program for children of its alumni. The GAL’s own child was too young to need this information but, knowing that Kia could benefit from this experience, he called the Director of Admissions to ask if his guardian child could attend. Learning that Kia would be welcome, the GAL was making plans to meet her and her foster mother at the college on the day of the program.
As the veteran GAL concluded his comments to the volunteers in training, he pointed out that the ending to Kia’s story is yet to unfold. He cannot predict what will happen but he can promise that he will be there to help her every step of the way.
If you would like to learn more about how you could help a child like Kia, call the Darlington County Guardian ad Litem Program at 383-2333, or visit our website at Darlington.SCGAL.org. Our next training starts October 11th, 2011.
The South Carolina Volunteer Guardian ad Litem Program is a member of National CASA®. http://www.nationalcasa.org