Surviving Good Intentions: A Retrospective Examination of the Florida Guardian ad Litem Program

PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR: Amy Nourie, MS

University of South Florida

OVERVIEW

This dissertation seeks to explore the impact of the Florida Guardian ad Litem (GAL) Program from the perspectives of former foster youth. It specifically asks how were former foster youth impacted by the Florida GAL Program and how did this program affect their future outcomes? The research will include several qualitative methods guided by a feminist lens, to retell the youth’s personal stories. Also, focus groups will be conducted with Guardian ad Litem volunteers and staff, respectively, to pinpoint the specific areas necessary to help children, as well as the child welfare workforce, which can be used to improve outcomes through policy initiatives.

NEXT STEPS

As part of her dissertation fellowship with the Institute, Ms. Nourie will provide progress updates on her dissertation in December 2022 and March 2023. A final report to the Institute is expected in June 2023.