As a Guardian ad Litem volunteer in Charlotte County, I’ve seen firsthand the heartbreak and resilience of children in our local dependency court system. These children have been removed from their homes, through no fault of their own, due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment, and placed in temporary care while the court works toward a safe, permanent solution.
During these deeply uncertain times, Guardian ad Litem (GAL) volunteers step in as a consistent, caring presence. We advocate for each child’s best interests in court, in school, and in every area of their lives. Some of us, including neighbors right here in Burnt Store Marina, proudly serve in this role.
One of the most rewarding parts of my advocacy has been working closely with A.N.A.’s Friends. The organization partners with GAL Volunteers like me, as well as many others in the child welfare system, to help meet urgent and often overlooked needs. Whether it’s a bed to sleep in, tutoring to stay on track in school, or something as simple as a birthday gift, A.N.A.’s Friends steps in to make sure no child falls through the cracks.
I recently had the privilege of serving a young boy who was placed in foster care after experiencing significant trauma. He was falling behind in school, and feeling lost when summer approached. Thanks to A.N.A.’s Friends, he was able to attend a local summer camp where he finally got to just be a kid. The organization also provided tutoring that helped him catch up academically, and regain his confidence. That support changed the entire trajectory of his summer, and gave him a much-needed sense of stability and hope.
It’s stories like his that inspire me to invite you to this year’s Fashion to a Tea, the sixth annual celebration and signature fundraiser for A.N.A.’s Friends. On October 30, at the Charlotte Harbor Yacht Club, 200 guests will gather for a beautiful plated luncheon, and enjoy a fun and heartfelt afternoon featuring a fashion show with Friends of A.N.A. as our models, a fabulous silent auction, and some delightful surprises.
Tickets are just $60 and your support will directly benefit children right here in Charlotte County who need it most.
🎟️ To purchase tickets, visit https://www.anasfriends.org/special-events.
📞 Or feel free to call me directly at 443-632-4885 if you’d like to purchase tickets, volunteer, donate an auction item, or explore sponsorship opportunities.
Thank you for helping give these children the stability, dignity, and hope they so deeply deserve. I can’t wait to see you at Fashion to a Tea.
