by Joe Wilhelm Jr.
Staff Writer
The Fourth Judicial Circuit Guardian ad Litem Program and Voices for Children of the First Coast took time Saturday night to thank the volunteers and advocates who give their time to make a difference in the lives of children.
The recognition took place at a banquet held at the University of North Florida University Center.
A Guardian ad Litem is a volunteer appointed by the court to protect the rights and advocate the best interests of a child involved in a court proceeding primarily as a result of alleged abuse or neglect.
Recognition was given to volunteers who have provided one, five, 10 and 20 years of service.
Those recognized included:
One year:
Lynn McCarthy, Glenda McDougall, Janice Buckman, Sandra Conklin, Linda Morton, Rosalia Penhallegon, Ann Turner, Formeka Watkins and Linda Williams.
Five years:
Janet Bryant, Lisa Mohn, Susan Schnoz, Frederick Schnoz, Fred Vanderbilt, Maime Fisher and Charles “Chuck” Smith.
10 years:
Joanne Lipp, Doug Wilson and Victor Zambetti.
20 years:
Sylvia Osewalt.
Several awards were also handed out. The Exchange Club earned the “Community Service” award. Circuit Court Judge Henry Davis was presented the “Judicial Advocate of the Year” award.
The “Rookie of the Year” award went to Donna Green in Duval County, Glenda McDougall in Clay County and Kathryn Herterich in Nassau County.
The “Guardian ad Litem of the Year” was awarded to Lina Ingraham in Duval County, Lynn McCarthy in Clay County and Andrea Hoffman in Nassau County.
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