Advocates for Children is dedicated to protecting children, empowering families, and strengthening communities in Northwest Georgia. We offer multiple layers of personal care through an array of programs to reduce the incidence of child abuse, strengthen families, and empower unhoused youth. Advocates for Children serves 11 Northwest Georgia counties offering safety, comfort, and hope to over 14,000 children and families every year.

Our Mission

Protect children, empower families, and strengthen communities.

Our Vision

Communities where all children are safe, thriving, and loved.

History

1983 – Marked the year when concerned community members in Bartow County recognized the need for a children’s shelter in our community. After thoughtful research and support for Bartow’s newest program, our ambitious founders realized their vision was a possibility.

1985 – Advocates obtained a small house to serve as Bartow County’s first children’s shelter. The shelter served fewer than nine children at a time in its first few years.

1988 – First Steps program launch

1990 – TransParenting program launch

1999 – Flowering Branch Children’s Shelter opens on Monroe Crossing

1999 – Rainbows program launch

2000 – Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program launch

2002 – Safe Place program launch

2008 – Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) opens

2013 – Hope in Your Home program launch

2019 – RISE Independent Housing program launches

2021 – Supporting Kids on the Road to Excellence (SKORE) program becomes part of Advocates

2022 – THRIVE Family Resource Center launches in Cobb and Bartow counties and Flowering Branch Children’s Shelter moves to its current residential location

As new needs for our children continue to arise in Bartow County and surrounding North Georgia areas, Advocates will continue to meet them. We are thankful for those who have helped us to brighten young lives every day for over 40 years!