Start the Year with Purpose: First 2026 Guardian ad Litem Training begins January 6, 2026

Lexington, SC 12/03/2025 – As the New Year brings fresh starts and renewed commitments, the Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem Program, a division of the South Carolina Department of Children’s Advocacy, invites community members to make a meaningful resolution—become a volunteer Guardian ad Litem (GAL) in Lexington County. The first FREE ONLINE TRAINING of 2026 begins January 6, making now the perfect time to take action and begin the year with purpose.

This training provides volunteers with the tools, knowledge, and skills needed to advocate for a child’s best interests in Family Court. Just as many people set intentions for growth, service, and positive change in the New Year, becoming a GAL offers a powerful—and achievable—way to turn those intentions into real impact.

Volunteer Guardians ad Litem ensure that children involved in Family Court legal proceedings through the Department of Social Services have a voice. GALs speak for children in court during times of instability, helping them find safety, stability, and hope for a brighter future.

“The New Year is a natural time to reflect on what matters most,” said Christy Vinson, Recruitment and Training Director of the SC GAL Program. “If your resolutions include giving back, finding purpose, or making a difference, becoming a GAL is a meaningful way to transform those resolutions into life-changing action for a child in need.”

Details of the Volunteer GAL Training:• Date & Time: Begins January 6, 2026 — Morning and Evening Sessions Offered• Location: Virtual Training• Registration Deadline: Application Deadline December 20, 2025• Requirements: Volunteers must be at least 21 years old, have a clean criminal record, no previous DSS case history, and be able to contribute four to five hours a month advocating for a child.

Start 2026 with purpose. Visit gal.sc.gov for more information and to download an application. Follow @Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem Program on Facebook for updates and local events in your area or contact communications@childadvocate.sc.gov to be added to the newsletter for updates and local events in your area.

Contact Richard Fowler, Regional Recruiter and Trainer for the GAL program, at (803) 645-9956 or Richard.Fowler@childadvocate.sc.gov for more information.