On Thanksgiving, most Americans sit down to a table of their favorite foods and give thanks for the gifts bestowed upon them. They exchange stories, watch football, laugh and enjoy the presence of those they love.
But for children involved with the dependency court and child welfare systems, the intent and purpose of this tradition is all but lost on them. From their point of view, the occasion is a painful reminder of the fact that instead of sitting next to Mom and Dad, they’re sitting at a table occupied by complete strangers – or at best, willing relatives. They’re reminded of their harsh reality – profound losses, uncertain status and the fact that the image of what was and what might have been is less clear with each passing day.
Children who have been removed from their families are quick to learn that the odds are stacked against them. Their sadness, anger and frustration, brought about by the loss of family, friends, schools and belongings, affects their self-esteem, confidence and sense of hope. Many fall behind in school, withdraw from their surroundings and become lost in the uncertainty of their situation.
For many of these children, the one bright spot in their lives is the presence of a volunteer who has taken an oath to help them overcome their tragic circumstances. Their Guardian ad Litem, who is trained and works with a human services professional and attorney, advocates in court for their best interests. He or she is focused solely on achieving the goals necessary to provide them with stability and placement in a loving home with adults who are willing and capable of providing positive parenting.
This Thanksgiving, as you’re sitting around the table giving thanks for all of your blessings, I hope you’ll keep in mind the more than 300 Lake County children, who due to abuse and neglect, are not much in the mood for “giving thanks.”
I hope you will call or visit the Guardian ad Litem Program at (352) 817-1546 or www.GuardianadLitem5.org to learn that by volunteering, you can give these children something to be thankful for.
Marcia Hilty is circuit director for the 5th Circuit Guardian ad Litem program.