LEXINGTON, S.C. – The Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem Program, a division of the South Carolina Department of Children’s Advocacy, has announced the swearing-in of new volunteer Guardian ad Litem (GAL) advocates in Lexington County.
During a ceremony held March 13 at the Lexington County Family Court, Trenay Dukes, Alicia Lyles, Ser’Cora Wright, Tammy Chapman, Janice Keisler, Alexis Burns, Cecilia McLendon, Elizabeth Gordley, Marilyn Burkart, Tanesha Reese, Leonard Cabe, and Tara Watts took an oath to serve as advocates for abused and neglected children involved in family court proceedings.
The ceremony was presided over by the Honorable Robert E. Newton.
These newly appointed volunteers have completed the required training and now join other community members working to represent the best interests of children in the family court system. Guardian ad Litem volunteers play a critical role in ensuring each child has a voice during legal proceedings.
“We’re always looking for dedicated individuals who are passionate about advocating for children,” said Richard Fowler, regional recruiter and trainer for the program. “If you are interested in learning how you can change a child’s story, we encourage you to visit gal.sc.gov to learn more.”
Prospective volunteers must be at least 21 years old, have a clean criminal record, no prior Department of Social Services case history, and be able to commit four to five hours per month. Free training is provided, with the next class scheduled to begin April 28.