Charles Bethea loves volunteering as a Guardian ad Litem.  The experience has taught him many new things.  
He has also recognized how great the need is when it comes to helping children.  “I have come to the realization that abuse has no color, shape or form.  It can and will happen in every style of home,” said Bethea.
Bethea, a retired leasing agent and adult education teacher, joined the Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem program in 2003.  
During his time as a volunteer, he has advocated for more than 100 children.  “I saw for myself the need for persons that were willing to come forth and not only speak, but take some time out of their busy lives and give back to the children who had no one to speak for them,” Bethea said.
When asked about a child who has made the strongest impression on him, Bethea talked about a boy who, “he was moved from his mother and siblings to the home of his father who he had never stayed with.”  He showed me that he had the mental and physical desire to overcome the unknown.”  
He overcame everything that he encountered and became an outstanding young man,” recalled Bethea.
Bethea wants to encourage others to become a Guardian ad Litem, “come to one of our training classes, sit and observe how the coordinator trains the new volunteers.
You can ask questions and be amazed at how easy it is to become a trained volunteer.  The training is free, and like any information, once you get it, it can’t be taken away from you.  We have more abused children that are not seen and you can make a difference if you choose to,” urged Bethea.
If you are interested in learning more about the Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem Program and the next training for Guardian ad Litem volunteers contact Brian Mercer at 843-774-5973.