Plymouth Harbor event highlights children's fund

Gianna Hall, a freshman at Sarasota High School, threw aside her notecards and stepped to the front of the room to speak. She said she didn’t need them to speak on behalf of the Children’s Guardian Fund, which sponsors more than 1,000 children in Florida’s 12th Judicial Circuit who have been abused, neglected or abandoned.

Hall spoke to the crowd Sept. 30, at Plymouth Harbor, about being part of the fund’s Guardian Ad Litem program, touching on how the program gives her a sence of normalcy.

The reception, hosted by Plymouth Harbor residents Mort and Carol Siegler, provided information about CGF’s efforts to brighten the futures of local youths in foster care and opportunities for involvement.

Hall said her guardian, Wendy Cox, a Sarasota attorney, provides the type of attention and support a parent or older sibling might normally provide. The two bond through the Guardian Ad Litem program by doing things such as seeing a concert featuring boy band One Direction or shopping for school supplies.

Hall also spoke about her positive experience with CGF’s Bridge to the Future Program, which pairs foster children with New College students who serve as positive role models and help the children with their studies.

Harold “Hal” Hedley, CGF board chairman, said most children involved don’t want pity.

“Most children and teens in foster care come from chaotic and abusive environments,” Hedley said. “Many of them don’t get simple things that make life worth living, like a prom dress, a birthday cake or the undivided attention of an adult in their lives.”

How to become a guardian ad litem
Volunteers should be at least 21 years old and must complete 30 hours of training. For more information, call 861-4875 or email [email protected].