The State Agency Initiative is a collaboration between 18 state agencies and 3 community partners that have come together in an effort to share resources and educate both state agency employees and the community at large about the need for Guardian ad Litem Volunteers. Each of the partners has committed to working with the Statewide Guardian ad Litem Office to support the goal of 100% representation for abused and abandoned children who are involved in the child welfare system through no fault of their own.
“The Guardian ad Litem program has provided me the opportunity to make a difference one life or one family at a time. It is so exciting to look into a child’s eyes and see trust and hope where there had been only fear, to see a child in a safe and loving home whether with the parents who now can provide the proper care or with a new family reaching out with love. With the support of the local Guardian ad Litem Program and the Agency for Workforce Innovation I have been able to coordinate my work as a program manager and my Guardian ad Litem schedules and sharing these jobs has allowed me to be a better manager, a better Guardian ad Litem, and a happier person.” Dorothy Johnson, Agency for Workforce Innovation, Manager of Unemployment Compensation Appeals
“I have been a Guardian Ad Litem volunteer for almost seventeen years… Being a Guardian ad Litem is one of the most rewarding things I have done in my life. The positive impact that a volunteer can have for a child is immeasurable.” Kelly Bennett, AHCA Assistant General Counsel and 2nd Judicial Circuit Guardian ad Litem.
“I would like to encourage others to lend a hand with this very important work. It’s unquestionably the most rewarding work I have ever done and, particularly in these days of budget cuts and other pressures on families and children…. When you have helped a child realize their potential for a full and positive life, you will always be grateful for that opportunity. My work with children has been something that will always make me incredibly proud. I can’t say enough about the wonderful opportunities that being a Guardian ad Litem gives.” Bruce Deterding, Department of Environmental Protection, Coastal & Aquatic Management Area
