Advocating for children

Circuit Court Judge Henry Davis swore in a new group of volunteers to the circuit’s Guardian ad Litem program Monday. Nakias Barnes, receiving her Guardian ad Litem certificate, was one of about 20 volunteers attending the ceremony at the Duval County Courthouse. A Guardian ad Litem is appointed by the court to advocate for a child, most of whom have been removed from their homes because of alleged abuse, abandonment or neglect. The volunteers sworn in Monday were previously interviewed and screened, and completed an eight-hour training session. For more information on the program call 1-866-341-1425 or go to www.GuardianadLitem.org.