Supporting Those Who Advocate for Children

We help caring adults turn advocacy into action.

Guardian ad Litem volunteers are often among the most consistent and dedicated advocates in the lives of children navigating foster care. They take the time to understand each child's unique circumstances, build meaningful relationships, and advocate for the resources and opportunities that help them thrive.

At Hero To A Child, we believe these caring adults shouldn't have to do it alone.

For more than 35 years, we've partnered with the Guardian ad Litem Office of Florida's Sixth Judicial Circuit to help turn advocacy into action. By providing resources, funding unmet needs, and connecting volunteers with community support, we help ensure that when a guardian ad litem volunteer identifies a need or opportunity for a child, they have a trusted partner ready to help.

How We Support Guardian ad Litem Volunteers

Meeting Children's Individual Needs

From beds and clothing to tutoring, therapy, extracurricular activities, and sibling visits, our Children's Needs Program helps GAL volunteers address needs that might otherwise go unmet. When a volunteer recognizes something that could make a meaningful difference in a child's life, we work to help make it possible.

Providing Immediate Access to Essential Resources

Our resource closets in Pinellas and Pasco counties give guardian ad litem staff and volunteers access to hygiene products, school supplies, books, toys, and other everyday essentials. These resources help volunteers respond to children's needs and provide comfort, encouragement, and a sense of normalcy.

Creating Opportunities for Connection and Childhood Experiences

Every child deserves opportunities to play, celebrate, explore interests, and create lasting memories. Through holiday gifts, family engagement events, recreational activities, and special experiences, we help GAL volunteers bring joy and connection into the lives of the children they advocate for.

Connecting Teens with Resources for Their Future

Our Adulting 101 Teen Conference helps guardian ad litem volunteers and the teens they support explore the resources available for life beyond foster care. By connecting youth ages 14 and older with community organizations, individuals with lived experience, and practical guidance, we help advocates support young people as they prepare for greater independence.

A Partnership Rooted in Advocacy

Hero To A Child was founded in 1989 by community members committed to supporting children served by the Guardian ad Litem Program. While our mission has grown to support all children and young adults impacted by abuse and neglect throughout Pinellas and Pasco counties, our commitment to the volunteers who advocate for them remains strong.

We recognize the extraordinary difference a consistent, caring adult can make in a child's life. Our role is to help ensure those adults have the resources, connections, and community support they need to make that difference.

Because when we support the people who show up for children, we help create brighter futures for the children they serve.

Are You a Guardian ad Litem Volunteer?

We're here to help you advocate for the children you serve. Whether you've identified an unmet need, are looking for essential supplies, or want to connect a teen with resources for their future, Hero To A Child is ready to partner with you.

Learn More About Children's Needs Support
Learn More About Teen Support
Get Involved with Hero To A Child

  • "The children were eating ramen noodles for dinner when I arrived. The fridge was nearly empty. Thanks to Hero To A Child, I was able to bring fresh food and gift cards. The kids immediately asked for carrots and yogurt for dessert. This isn’t a case of a child wanting a toy - it’s feeding a child. Thank you, thank you, thank you."

    Cheryl Presti, Guardian ad Litem volunteer

  • "As a Guardian ad Litem, it can be discouraging to continue the work due to the constraints of the foster care system and its ancillary organizations. However, Hero To A Child makes the work easier and helps keep one motivated to continue to hold the torch. They have helped me easily fill the gaps of my child's care and give her hope. Whether it be clothing, holiday gifts, or even electronics for school, they always come through (quickly)! Without Hero To A Child, I may have stopped doing this work but being able to fill the gaps and incentivize my child has helped her make progress and see her worth. Thank you Hero To A Child!"

    Bree Johnson, Guardian ad Litem Volunteer

  • “I am a Guardian Ad Litem and I have been using the services provided by Hero to a Child for 5 years, and they have been a Godsend. They have provided many emergency needs for the foster children I have advocated for over the years, and have never denied a request. The program to provide Christmas gifts is wonderful, and the foster parents are extremely appreciative. My responsibilities as a GAL would be difficult if it were not for Hero to a Child."

    Dawn Simmons, Guardian ad Litem Volunteer