They are the voice of the voiceless.
Abused, abandoned or neglected children rely on “Guardian Ad Litems” to advocate for their best interest.
The Jordan Belliveau tragedy is prompting more people to get involved with the program.
State law requires every abuse or neglected child be represented by a Guardian Ad Litem. But there is a 1000-child waiting list for an advocate.
There was a heart breaking sight this weekend in Clearwater as people gathered for a final goodbye to 2-year-old Jordan Belliveau.
Killed, Largo police believe, by his mother, Charisse Stinson, and left in a park.
“I think it hit a lot of us in this area. Just a little too close to home,” said Largo resident Alissa Phillipoff.
Watching the case in the news, Alissa, a mother of 2 kids herself, decided she had to do something.
I’ve thought about being a Guardian Ad Litem for about five years. I’ve toyed with the idea and this case just gave me the motivation to take action on it,” said Alissa.
But what really got her going is a recent open letter from Largo Police Chief Jeffrey Undestad.
He writes, in part, “I encourage you all to examine your capacity to become involved. There are numerous way to have a lasting positive impact on a child’s life.”
He lists becoming a foster parent and becoming a volunteer to be a Guardian Ad Litem.
Alissa recently attended an orientation session.
“They had us all go around the room and say your name a little bit about what has motivated us to follow this path and three of the six were because of this case,” she said.
Alissa’s application is being processed. It’s a non-paid position, about 10 hours a month.
“I feel that it is my responsibility as a member of this community to do what I can to help out,” said Alissa.
Click here to learn more about the Guardian Ad Litem Program in Pinellas and Pasco.
