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Meet Harriet, the volunteer advocate.

Posted on April 1st, 2016

Tell me a little about yourself…. background….age, family, career, etc…. An Indianapolis resident for over 43 years, I retired in 2010 after 36 years as an Elementary Teacher. Retirement has allowed me to spend more time with my daughter’s family and my three grandchildren here in Indy and to visit my son and his wife in Chicago.

When did you become a volunteer advocate? I became a volunteer advocate in 2010. After working with foster children in my school for many years, becoming a Child Advocate was the first thing on my ‘retirement list’ and a natural way to ‘give back’.

What made you decide to become a volunteer advocate? I enjoy working with the children and their relative/foster caregivers. I have learned so much while attending training’s, conferences, court hearings and working with committed professionals from many agencies. The training is excellent, ongoing and the professional support is the best.

What is the most rewarding part of being a volunteer advocate? I understand the responsibility I have to give a ‘voice’ to the children I work with and to advocate for their needs. I have supported the ‘reunification’ of children with their parents and celebrated the adoption of children by their caregivers.

What advice would you give to someone interested in being a volunteer advocate? I would be happy to talk to anyone interested in becoming a Child Advocate. It is very worthwhile volunteer work!