Brown Bag Lunches
Pinellas
Friday Feb 17 11:30AM -1:00 PM Icot Office
Pasco
New Port Richey:
Brown bag and learn!
Come and learn about genograms and how they can help you work your case!
Friday Feb 17 12:00 PM
NPR office
8324 Corporate Way
IN SERVICE TRAININGS
Dade City:
In Service
February 23rd 4 PM-6PM Roxanne Mayorca MS, LMHC will discuss Child Parent Psychotherapy and Circle of Security. The location is St. Mary's Episcopal Church 37623 Magnolia Avenue Dade City, Florida 33523
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Stars of the Month Dec/Jan
Karen Karinja
Amy Foster
Mike McElvogue
Barbara Henderson
Melissa Hale
Lisa Richards
Anna Hayes
Kathi Konkle
Dennis Fagan
Deborah Rand
Stacey Badeaux
Nicole Schemen
Donna Steger
Cathy King
Carol Frecker
Julie Klavans
Angela Dudenhoefer
Denise DeBord
Linda Meckes
Nancy Walker
Carmen Feliciano
Binnie Martin
Misty Exelby
Dale Lindberg
Charles Derexson
Yvonne Crandall
Pasco
Jennifer Goodfield
Judy Brunner
Lisa Crandall
June Fishbourne
Timmra Newsome
Sheri Ann Johnson
Mary Pandolfino (Pinellas CV)
Lydia Santana
Linda Poulette
Kim Melick
CONGRATS TO PRO BONO ATTORNEY JENNIFER EDWARDS!
The Florida Statewide Guardian ad Litem Program 6th Circuit GAL Jennifer Edwards was recognized by the
Florida Supreme Court and the Florida Bar Young Lawyers
for her Pro Bono Service. She gave an amazing speech talking about volunteers being a voice for abused children. She even highlighted the fact the GAL volunteers can proudly say "I am for the child"...
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Welcome new GALs
Anne Glover
Matthew Ceriale
Pamela Smith
Susan Swenson
Audra Ames
Noreen Kraebel
Nataly Azcurra
Kathleen Minidis
Welcome to Lisa Nicolaro our new Part Time CAM in Pasco. Lisa is working on her Masters in Criminal Justice from St. Leo, She has been a GAL volunteer for 2 years, and has extensive experience in the legal field in multiple arena
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Great Peeps to Tweet!
Lisa Crandall for acting as an appointment organizer and results interpreter for case management, caregivers, parents, and her CAM of the myriad of medical appointments and assessments scheduled for the two children she represents. Both the girls have significant developmental delays and have not had a diagnosis or appropriate services even though they have been in care for eight months. Without Lisa's skills and advocacy on behalf of the girls, we would not be any closer to understanding the origins of their delays and the services they need to address their deficits.
Fran Scerbo for her advocacy on behalf of a fifteen year old girl who was hospitalized under the Baker Act but needed a placement for substance abuse treatment. Fran supported the caregivers who love and want the child placed with them but were insisting on initiation appropriate services. The child had not received any services during the two months she was placed with then and the situation quickly became adversarial with the Department. Fran testified at an emergency motion for change of placement filed by the Department and the judge ordered services immediately, including an assessment and placement under the Marchman Act.
Thank you to Steve Rosenkranz for flying with his GAL child to Ohio for a visit with his family. It was the child's first time flying too! Jean McNary is a life saver for running out to a home almost immediately to see if the placement was safe for one of our kids the day before court.
Mary Ellen Ditrinco has gone above and beyond by transporting her kids to therapy to ensure they feel comfortable.
Congratulations to Linda Paul for having an over 2 year old case close successfully with reunification and immediately picking up a new case. Thank you to all the GALs who attended the Dade City GAL Appreciation Event. We had a blast!
-A big thanks to GALs Sylvia Williams, Sharon Gretzula, Joan Spangler and Jean McNary for ensuring that our children who were recently sheltered would have a happy holiday. Kathi Konkle for helping to spread the word about the need for GALS. Peggy Burns who on December 6, supplied lunch to the entire Dade City Office from the kitchen at Lake Jovita. Thank you Peggy. Lunch was delicious. A Touching Note to Dade City GAL Tracy Wilhelm
"Where do I begin to express how blessed and thankful we are that you were placed in our lives? You will never be forgotten and you are always welcome at our house. Thanks you for all you have done. " - -- from an aunt who just adopted her 5 yr-old her niece. To Joetta Bauer and Wendy Grassi for doing a great job visit kids from Pasco placed in Pinellas.Great reports and just like clockwork every month.
Many, many kudos to
Timmra Newsom, June Fishbourne, Karen Crowe, Rosanne Tomaselli, Susan Mueller and
Fran Scerbo for stepping up to take a new case as we have been deluged with new shelters Also to
Lisa Crandall who is continuing to work with a very difficult parent through reunification,
Sandy Buchanan stayed by a child's side for so very long until he was able to adopted, on nonetheless his birthday! Melissa Soler just picked up a new case with 5 boys, thanks for the extra help Melissa, these are some great kids and you are a great Guardian. Kelly Macko is the best for agreeing to step in and help a new GAL prepare for his case to go towards TPR.
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Street Beat
THANK YOU GALS!
GAL Joan Spangler continues to spoil the Dade City office with a BIG BOX of chocolates
GAL APPRECIATION TEAM DINNERS
CAMs Kristi Anson and Alyssa Bambard teamed up and threw a fun party with food, drinks and trivia. The GAL's left feeling great and appreciated!
Pictured below -Wendy Kelly and Laurie Rosati had a holiday party at Argentos.
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| Out of the Mouth's of Babes |
J: a 9 yr old little girl, had this conversation when her GAL saw her shortly before Christmas.
J: " Will I be getting the gifts I asked for on the list my mom gave you?"
GAL: "Well, I think for sure some of your wishes will be granted."
J: "Where do the gifts come from?"
GAL: " Some families are very fortunate and want to share their blessings with others. It makes them happy to see others happy, so they buy gifts for children and families at Christmas time. "
J: "If it makes them happy to give me gifts, I'm OK with that. If they want to give me more gifts and be happier, I'm Ok was that, too." (Child paused) "Does that sound bad?"
GAL: No , because it is good everyone is happy.
J's smile made her GAL happy.
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NEW RESOURCES FOR GALS!
You will see a Program Log in section for volunteers, in the top right section of the page. We now have resources posted on the back end of the website for you, including commonly used forms, releases and sample JR templates for download. Contact your CAM for the username and password!
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GUARDIAN AD LITEM FIVE CORE COMPETENCIES
Commitment to Children- The children for whom we advocate are our most important priority.
Communication Built on Trust- The Program has a culture of open communication, active listening, teamwork, and regard for the views of others. This includes being honest and straightforward with the children we represent in keeping with their level of age and maturity.
Collective Empowerment-
Each circuit has the authority and responsibility to make and implement the best decisions to meet the children's needs. This empowerment must be passed on to volunteers, staff and attorneys.
Collaboration- The Program proactively seeks to develop relationships that promote the well-being of the whole child.
Courtesy- The Program values all who engage in this challenging work and ensures they are treated with respect and dignity.
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Donna Rasmussen, 
Former Circuit Director
In case you are not aware, I wanted to let everyone know that
I recently retired as your GAL Circuit Director. I have been truly honored to serve since 2002. It has been my privilege to get to know many of our amazing volutneers in both counties; many of you having started with the program well before me. What has kept me motivated through so many years, and through many changes is seeing the difference our committed and talented volunteers, in partnership with our wonderful staff have made both in the quality of lives of children and their futures. I have seen our volunteer base grow from several hundred to over 700. This is a testament to the compassion of our community, and the dedication of our staff, to come together and help our most vulnerable in our community. There have many who have helped me and our cause along the way. Too many to mention all, but briefly a few, thanks to our non profit, the Guardian ad Litem Foundation of Tampa Bay, and the original board members who had a vision and worked zealously to implement it. There were some amazing folks who moved the organization forward, during growth and transition periods, specifically Founding Board President, Sue Neville, Heidi Joswig, Cynthia Allen, former Board President Jodi Johnston and Executive Director, Amy Foster. We also have many valuable partners in our community, however to name a few, Angels Against Abuse ( founded by GAL Sandy Kearney), Suncoast Voices for Children (founding members GAL Donna Gaffney, Sandra Killian), Shorecrest Prep School, The GAL Club at Shorecrest (founded by Linda Zolper) and the new Child's Advocates of Stetson Law Club founded by GAL Taylor Greenberg. I have received insightful guidance from our Volunteer Task Force, Chairs Mike Bailey/ Karen Amundrud. Praise for George Sherman's mad survey/google talents. I salute John Zucker, recruiter/lifeline. Thank you talented Amanda Liddy who coordinated our newsletter for so many years! To Norm Bungard, for always spreading the word, even jumping from a plane. PInellas and Pasco County support, especially Monica Davis-Griffin. Thanks to the leadership of Executive Director, Alan Abramowitz for all does and continues to do for kids, and Director of Operations Frank Prado and Regional Director Kimberly Delgaudio for their guidance and support. Special thanks to all our staff- for their support, talent, teamwork, and professalism.
I am not leaving the program, but simply changing hats. I will be volunteering for the program in several areas, but am pleased to turn over the reigns to a very talented new Circuit Director. I am looking forward to some free time however, to spend with my family.
A bit about Mariela Ollsen, our new CD. She grew up in the Tampa Bay area and attended the University of South Florida majoring in Criminology and minoring in Psychology. After graduation, she worked in the medical field for a few years before attending Stetson University College of Law, in St. Petersburg, She graduated from law school in 2000 and while in law school she competed in both Moot Court and Trial Team, winning best oral advocate in the preliminary round in the Robert Orseck Moot Court Competition and winning first place in the Chester Bedell Trial Team Competition.
She began working for the State Attorney's Office in Pinellas County in the Children's Legal Services Division in May 2000. After several years in the dependency division, she transferred to the juvenile delinquency division, maintaining her legal focus on children. She began at the Guardian ad Litem Program in 2011. Since then, she has focused on advocating for our most neglected children and ensuring their voice is heard. She also was very involved in Pinellas Early Childhood Court, since the inception.
She is married to a prosecutor in the Children's Legal Services Division in Pinellas County and they have an 8 year old son and a 3 year old basset hound mix. She comes from a large blended family with four siblings and enjoys spending quality time outdoors with her family.
Keep up the great work that you are doing, even when it is frustrating
. You may not always see immediate results, but know that you are sowing seeds and making a difference in the lives of children.
With warm regards and gratitude,
Donna
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Sixth Circuit Vital Statistics:
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2534(<)
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Of those without a GAL
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800 (<)
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Case Volunteers
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743 (<)
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Transportation Approved Volunteers
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242 (>)
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* PARENTAL CONTACT: GALS, when you take on your case, it is important to initiate contact with the parents. During the course of the case, maintain contact with the parent/s to determine if the parent/s is working the case plan tasks. Ask parents to sign releases so that independent documentation can be obtained. If a parent is not very cooperative, keep a log of your attempts to reach the parent/s. Please be sure to communicate this information to your CAM. Thank you GALS.
* CHILD RECORDS: It is important to obtain child records, including medical/pediatric and any ongoing therapies taking place. No releases are needed but please provide a copy of your Court Order and your Notice of Acceptance. Should there be any difficulty in obtaining child records, please call your CAM for assistance.
* EXTENDED FOSTER CARE: Some of our dependent children are opting for Extended Foster Care at age eighteen (18). If you would like more specific information in regard to this program, please contact your CAM who can provide more detailed information for you. Never hesitate to ask questions and communicate with your CAM and your Child's Best Interest Attorney. Andrew Maurin, in our Pinellas office, is a great resource in this area of law if you, or your youth has specific questions or concerns.
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Happy Holidays and a Happy New Year from your GAL Legal Team!
CBIAs-Rebecca Brodeur, Gary Carpenter, Christina Clemenson, Wanda Davis, Chris Glaser, Patricia Hirsch, Jepera Hvidberg, Melissa Jagger, Andrew Maurin, Elyse McGuire, Mariela Ollsen, Kari Marsland-Pettit, Dean Zona. Supervising Attorney, Kristi Salyers and Legal Assistants, Christy Nicholson and Cynthia Garrow.
This "Shout-Out" goes to
Steve Rosenkranz who continues to go above and beyond for his kids. In order to facilitate a visit with a relative in Ohio with whom there is a pending ICPC after CM/GAL/Court approval,
he purchased the plane tickets, subject to reimbursement from ECA, and, then accompanied the youth to Columbus, Ohio for the weekend before Thanksgiving. He transported the youth to the relatives home, stayed with local friends and ensured safe return to Florida.
Steve's initiative, selflessness and compassion enabled the youth to safely visit with his family during the holiday season.
Thank you Russell Gordon for keeping in close contact with your CAM on two very challenging cases.
A big "yahoo" for Bert Owens, a GAL volunteer in the Dade City office. Bert, a volunteer for less than a year, worked his magic for two siblings (ages 16 and 12) who wanted to return home to continue their education at their former school in time for the 2016-2017 school year. Bert advocated for reunification and then made numerous unannounced visits from August to October to ensure that the reunification was a success. Bert visits occurred at the home in the morning before school and in the early evening hours. His observations and follow- up ensure the reunification was a success.
Kathy Smith is an outstanding GAL. She accepted her first case, a complicated one, and jumped right in. She gathered all records, attends every hearing and advocates to the fullest for the child. She really goes above and beyond to ensure this child gets all services and benefits she is entitled to. She is an asset to the Guardian ad Litem Program. Kudos!
Thank you Molly Camp and Elizabeth Samuelson for watching over a child in a challenging placement, making extra visits, unannounced and difficult decisions and making tough recommendations in court.
Thank you Susan Neville for going above and beyond in advocating for your child's best interest and assisting to getting your child moved to his permanent placement and get all services in place.
Shout out to GAL Nancy Keyser for taking another case with multiple young children in different placements/counties. She jumped right on and visited the children, wrote detailed visit notes, established a quick rapport with the children, wrote a judicial report, and attended a hearing all within the first month, while balancing a second case, also involving multiple young children, which she had been GAL for over a year consistently visited the children while they resided out of county, assisted with a difficult reunification, spoke to teachers, gathered records, and is attempting to ensure the children are still safe after moving out of state. Thanks for all you do Nancy!
Shout out to GAL Mary Ellen Ditrinco for her work on a very difficult case. Mary Ellen has started to transport the children to outings and to their visits with their parents to develop a closer relationship with the children. Mary has kept in close contact with therapists, caregivers, gathered records, attended all hearings and gone well above and beyond on this very difficult case.
Shout out to Beth Hegseth for her work involving a teen boy. Beth has been on this case for almost two years and has developed a close relationship with this child, visiting him frequently, in each of his placements, in school, speaking to him on the phone, and taking him on outings. Beth has maintained contact with family members, and oftentimes assisted in stabilizing placements when case management was unavailable.
Shout out to Amanda Liddy for working two difficult cases. One case involves a difficult decision regarding reunification or termination. In order to form an opinion as to whether or not the mother can safely parent her child, Amanda has observed visits with the parents, gathered records, spoke to providers, attended all staffings and hearings. This case has been very time consuming, this has occurred on top of another case set for trial.
Thanks to Jack Sheppard for jumping on a difficult case, and getting out to see the child, his father's home and the former caregiver on very short deadlines so that Court's status hearing is productive. Jack has forged a good working relationship with the attorney ad litem for the child, and has patiently continued to try to establish communication with case management. He has gone to the school and gotten information that case management has failed to get for some time. Jack seems to be establishing a good rapport with the child, even though the child may not be happy with his situation or our recommendations at times.
Nancy Blount is an overall amazing asset to this program. Nancy has vigorously advocated for all of her children. She is always up for a challenge, whether it is on her cases or helping staff at the office. She is always prepared for court and will drop everything to lend a helping hand. She is a pleasure to work with. Thank you Nancy!
Thank you Pascal Fruge for your continued devotion in attending every hearing, contacting relatives near and far, speaking to therapists and visiting and advocating for two children for over a year.
Beth Ann and Carl Vom Eigen have been GAL's for almost two years. They recently completed a Termination of Parental Rights Trial where Carl provided testimony. Both of them have been amazing advocates for this child and have watched him grow both physically and emotionally in his current placement. They drive out of county at least once every month to visit their child. They speak with providers and anyone else necessary in order to verify information. Carl and Beth Ann always go the extra step in order to make sure that every loose end is wrapped up and every need of their assigned child is met. They are passionate and thorough. They are patient and understanding when dealing with everyone involved in their case. They are incredible advocates for their children.
Thank you Khedjia Nottingham for assisting with transportation, visiting your child in numerous placements in several counties, fighting for necessary services and doing the research no one else attempted.
Shout out to Brittany Brouchard for her out of the box work helping a young boy get his educational needs met. Brittany has spent countless hours assisting with issues relating to placement across counties, education and sometimes speaking to the child she represents on a daily basis to ensure that he knows that someone is advocating for his needs. This child knows that his GAL has his best interest at heart and is lucky to have Brittany in his life!
Shout out to Cindy Rudd who does an extremely thorough investigation and has a strong knowledge and understanding of her cases. Her demeanor and wealth of knowledge and understanding provides great credibility in court to her testimony. Recently, with no notice that she would be called on to do so, Cindy's testimony prevented a child from experiencing a traumatic event.
Thank you Peggy Miller, for all your efforts on a recent case involving teenage parents with special challanges.. creating unique accommodations. Peggy was essential in ensuring that the reasonable efforts by case management, through the entire case, especially when there were changes in case managers. Peggy also attended all of the parents' supervised visitations, not only to observe, but to support the parents in their attempts in learning to parent the child. At the trial, Peggy was able to testify as to her direct observations of the parents' interactions with the child. I knew with Peggy on the case, nothing would fall through the cracks.
Thank you, Lilian McCabe for jumping right in and visiting three children in a challenging placement and ensuring these children are having all of their needs met!
Thank you, Belinda Schultz for all your efforts on your cases. Belinda is thorough, thoughtful, compassionate and knows her cases well. You can rest assured that when she provides her recommendations that they are well reasoned and thought out. Kudos to Belinda!
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Recruitment Corner
Wow...we are at the end of yet another year and ready to begin a new chapter entitled "2017". At this time of the year, we tend to reflect on the past and make new plans for the future. As I look back over the past 6 months as the Community Outreach Coordinator for Pasco, we've been busy creating a Guardian ad litem "buzz" throughout the county. In addition to being interviewed by Spirit FM Radio and Nature Coast TV, we have others who have proactively reached out to us to help carry our message. The Heart of the Heroes band, a group of foster children who perform at various venues, has incorporated the Guardian ad litem program in their message. We have actually obtained Guardians from their presentations. The husband of one of our CAMs discussed the program with someone while working in their home....and yes; they are joining the ranks as a GAL Volunteer. Recently, a woman called inquiring about the next information session, as she has seen information about the Guardian ad litem program in her church program! Community information sessions are held regularly at libraries in strategic areas of the county. We've participated in several community events and made presentations to community/civic organizations. All in an effort to create the "buzz". As we look towards 2017, we are excited about our marketing plan which will help us work to make "Guardian ad litem" a household name. The rosters for the mid-January training classes in Pinellas and Pasco are rapidly filling up. Our mission continues to be the driving force behind our recruitment efforts. We are indeed "for the child". Therefore, our work cannot be complete until EVERY child in the Dependency system has a "voice"....a Guardian ad litem volunteer who will ensure their best interests are served. The work is great, but the mission is greater. As always, please don't hesitate to share any creative ideas on how we can make the "buzz" even louder in 2017 in Pasco
([email protected]) and Pinellas ([email protected]) counties. And as you prepare to celebrate the Christmas holidays, take some time to reflect and make plans. It will help jump start your 2017 in the direction you desire. Have a blessed, enjoyable holiday.
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~Larnelle Scott,
Pasco County Community
Outreach Coordinator
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Pasco GALS of the Month December and January
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Kermit Thatcher December 2016
Kermit is a new volunteer and December's Pasco GAL of the month. He took his first case in August of 2016 after completing training and he came to the program with valuable experience. Kermit served in two branches of our country's military - the Air Force (1965-1970) and Army (1977-1993) thus prepping him for our work supporting Pasco's kids! We all know the challenges faced with our advocating and Kermit has been outstanding in his organization, commitment to the children and support of the caregiver on his case. Kermit is willing and capable of doing so many good things - including building cribs! He received a Bronze Star from the military, but I give him a GOLD Star for his work with the GAL program!
-Alyssa Bambard, Child Advocacy Manager
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Pamela Young January 2017
Pamela Young has been a volunteer with the Guardian ad Litem Program for close to 4 years. Since that time she has advocated for 16 cases and dozens of children. Pamela is kind, compassionate and works well with not only the children, but the families and foster families. Pamela is up beat, positive and always has a smile on her face. Her monthly reports are thorough and timely and she is ready to fight for the children to have a voice. I am so appreciative that Pamela is on my team to help with several of the out of county cases. Pamela you are the best and the New Port Richey Team sends you a BIG thank you! It is a pleasure to work with you!
-Kristi Anson, Child Advocacy Manager
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| Pinellas GAL of the Month |
Amelia Zimmerman
December 2016
Amelia started out last year as a Brookwood volunteer and quickly saw how big the need was for these teen girls to have a GAL/Mentor close to their age and someone
they could relate to as a friend as well as someone looking out for their best interest. Amelia decided to take the classes and become a GAL so that she would be able to advocate for these teen girls in court and with the dependency system. Amelia also
has teen girls at Carlton Manor group home and is at both group homes at least a couple times a week.
Amelia does everything she can to make the lives of these girls as normal as and as comfortable as she can. She takes them out for rides and let them listen to her radio really loud, she takes them out to eat, to movies, school shopping, she goes to see them when they are sad, upset or nervous about family, friends or court issues, she advocates for them with case managers and providers, usually in other counties (courtesy cases). When she sees a need she is at presence in their lives, she hosts monthly parties, food events, speakers, and museum outings, she gets to know each girl individually and connects with them on their level. Amelia is reliable and turns in her reports timely and remains in regular contact with her CAM. Amelia is a Librarian for the City of Dunedin, she loves her Job, but GAL is her passion.
Amelia has done an excellent job with our teen girls at Brookwood, Carlton Manor group home and the GAL program. Amelia thank you for being an AWESOME GAL
-Mel Copeland
Child Advocacy Manager
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Kathy Samlick January 2017
The Guardian ad Litem Program is represented by the very best of volunteers. One of these outstanding volunteers is Kathleen Samlick. Kathy, as she prefers to be called, was certified
on September 9, 2013 and jumped into action immediately. Kathy has worked nine cases since
becoming a volunteer and has represented infants and teens. No challenge is too tough for this
Guardian ad Litem Volunteer. During her years of service, Kathy has demonstrated extraordinary
dedication to her children and to the Program. She is always attends staffings, appears in court
regularly, and is an active participant in Guardian ad Litem Advocacy Reviews on her cases. Her input is
accurate and her insight into her cases and the parties to these cases is on target. Kathy's attention to detail provides needed information to the GAL team. Kathy is able to interview parents, observe
parental visits, and has a remarkable talent for collecting, providing and reviewing any and all records that pertain to the children or to the parents on her cases.
Sally Startzel Child Advocacy Manager
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Last month we talked about control. We all know that finding serenity in this work can seem like an oxymoron. Just recently there was a court date for the children that I visit and the outcome was certainly not what I had hoped for these children. What else could I do? I had to remind myself to just
BREATHE.
Breathe in acceptance for the outcome.
Release Control of what I am I not able to
Express my frustration in positive, productive ways.
Act on those things within my control
Talk about my feelings of frustration with my CAM
Hold myself responsible for my feelings
Evaluate what I can do in the future to help move the case in a more positive direction
So I hope the next time you go to court you will print this out and put it in your pocket. Or feel free to come up with your own and if you do please share it with us and we'll put it in the next newsletter. Hopefully you won't need it but if you do it will be there because sometimes all we can do is BREATHE. Thank you for all you do for our children for without you they would be even more lost. Please don't give up -just B R E A T H E !
~Karen Malo ,
Pinellas Community
Outreach
Coordinator
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December 2016
IF ONLY
Ah GALS if only we could grant your every wish and every hope.
We stand before you in great admiration as to how you all cope.
Your tasks are numerous, as you embark on this lengthy journey.
You visit, you report, you consult with your CAM and attorney.
Ah GALS, if only we could recompense you in some tangible way.
We wish you good tidings, good health and may this be every day.
That the New Year bring to you our deep and ongoing gratitude.
We thank you for your representation and such a great attitude.
Ah GALS, if only
by Diana Aboussir
January 2017
OUR TRIBUTE A SPECIAL SALUTE FROM THE POET'S CORNER
By Diana Aboussir
Donna Rasmussen had been the Director of the 6th Circuit (Pinellas and Pasco Counties) for almost fifteen years. She brought with her a plethora of experience having worn many different hats during her years with the Court system, but more importantly she brought with her a love of children, a deep, enduring, and passionate devotion for the well being and safety of all children, but especially those in the dependency system.
Donna Rasmussen is now retiring but will always remain in our hearts and minds as the leader who brought the Guardian ad Litem Program in the 6th Circuit to where it is today. Under Donna's leadership and guidance, the 6th Circuit has increased the number of volunteers who work so diligently representing children, has assisted dramatically in the expansion of the program, and has spearheaded and laid the groundwork for a non profit organization to better fund the needs of the children that the Guardian ad Litem Program represents. Donna has worked tirelessly to assure that all children are well represented, that Guardians are well trained, and that staff is well supported in every way so that every team can move forward on each and every case to reach the best outcome for each child.
Donna's door has never been closed. Guardians, staff members, community participants, and those seeking assistance for children and/or grandchildren could be sure that Donna would be there to guide, instruct, and help in every way, regardless of the situation or critical incident that could be occurring at the time. Donna has always led by example. There is nothing that this Circuit Director would ask of anyone that Donna, herself, would not do. She is remarkable in every way. We all wish Donna the very best in her future endeavors. She has been and will always be the beacon of light, leading, guiding, instructing, supporting, and encouraging not just staff members, but Guardian ad Litem Volunteers, and community partners.
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Camp Erin Tampa Bay 2017
Registration is now open!
Camp Erin® Tampa Bay is a FREE weekend sleep away camp specifically designed for kids and teens, 1st-12th grade, who have experienced the death of a significant person in their life. At Camp Erin, kids have the opportunity to explore, express and memorialize while being aroung other kids who have experienced similar losses in their lives. Many volunteers are also needed to help provide comfort, support, and fun during the camp weekend.
Camp Weekend:
Friday, February 24th - Sunday, February 26th, 2017
@ Word of Life Retreat Center in Hudson, FL
Campers will be chosen on a first come first serve basis with priority given to new campers*, following a required family interview. Due to high volume of applications, not all applicants will be able to attend this year, but will receive priority for next year's camp. Acceptance status will be communicated after all family interviews.
Each camper needs to be signed up individually.
*Campers that have previously attended
Camp Erin
will automatically be added to the waitlist. Please verbally inform us if the child has experienced a significant death since attending.
More information and a printable application can be found at: www.suncoastkidsplace.org/camperin
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Provided by:
Suncoast Kid's Place:
Center for Grieving Children, Teens, and Their Families
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Case Manager of the Month
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for the month for December 2016 and Januray 2017
Maureen Reynolds (December)
Feedback about Maureen from Directions; Maureen Reynolds is outstanding in every way. Maureen knows every detail of her cases, communicates promptly, and follows up on her cases. It is a pleasure to work with Maureen.
Maureen also does our trainings. She is wonderful. Maureen is conscientious, knowledgeable, and friendly! She is always willing to help, update GALS on cases, and include GALS in decisions. She is hard working and very fair!!
Congratulations and THANK YOU for your work on behalf of dependent children and their families!! Enjoy your parking space.
Kirby Gronda (January)
Feedback about Kirby Gronda from Lutheran;
Kirby
was an amazing case manager and an even more amazing supervisor. She follows through with every detail
On her cases and is one of the most professional, responsible persons I have encountered.
Kirby has always been very organized and responsible when it comes to her cases.
She always works with the GAL program and looks out for what is best for the children. K
irby Gronda is exceptional in every way. Over the years I have had many cases with Kirby and on every case, she was outstanding.
She recently had to step up and testify at a TPR trial with two weeks notice. She did a fantastic job!
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December Anniversaries
| ONE |
FOUR |
Vaughn Haight |
| Shelley Johnson |
Mary Francis Nelson |
Beverly Finn |
| Susan Jonnatti |
Steve Rosenkranz |
EIGHT |
| Kimberly Drake |
Donna Russell |
Amelia Nichols |
| Judy Warrick |
Linda Wilken |
Richard Nichols |
| TWO |
Andrew Maurin |
NINE |
| Marissa Cioffi |
FIVE |
Mike Bailey |
| Danielle Jenkins |
Virginia Nourie |
John Tarrant |
| Courtney Gwyn |
George Roe |
TEN |
| Catherine Paul |
Judy Roe |
William Backer, Esq. |
| Samuel Dulberg |
SIX |
Joyce Supple |
| DOROTHY ATKINS |
Maria Costa |
FOURTEEN |
| Michele Goodman |
SEVEN |
Barbara Heck |
| THREE |
Susan Huff |
TWENTY SEVEN |
| Craig Mousseau |
KEVIN SOBAT |
Fran Naumann |
| MICHELLE BEARD |
Jayshree Pathak |
|
|
|
|
