Advocates spend time one-on-one with a child in foster care, serving as an extra set of eyes and ears to look out for the child’s safety and well-being while they are in care. They are a consistent support and a familiar face for a child who has experienced abuse or neglect. They gather information about the child’s circumstances and their family background. An advocate’s voice is trusted and valued in the courtroom, where life-altering decisions are made about where the child will live. Because advocates have a personal relationship with the child, they can express what would be in the child's best interests, helping guide the child into a safe, permanent home.