Children's Guardian Fund

Normalcy and enrichment - most children in foster care come from chaotic and abusive environments. Many have never had a birthday cake, a book or a stuffed animal, much less the calm, undivided attention of an adult in their lives. Their needs range from the profound to the more mundane volunteer child advocates apply for funding through the Children's Guardian Fund (cgf) to provide simple needs such as a prom dress or soccer cleats, or life-changing experiences such as specialized summer camps or music, art or sports lessons. Each request is tailored to a particular child's physical and emotional well-being. Next step - through this program,cgf advocates for adolescents age 13 to 23 who need extra support as they transition out of state care and into self- sufficiency. Our goal is to help these children become more successful academically and acquire important life skills before they start living independently. Funds raised for this at-risk group may be used for: housing and utility deposits, bus passes, gas cards or bikes, career clothing such as uniforms or dress clothes for a first job, mentors and peer tutors.

Providing a voice for every child, cgf supports the recruitment, training, and retention of volunteer child advocates in desoto, manatee, and sarasota counties through informational gatherings, newsletters, appreciation events, sponsoring conference attendance, and providing supplies.