Every Child Deserves an Advocate.
We select, certify, and empower Judicial Child Advocates for children who experience neglect and abuse in Bradford and Tioga Counties.
What We Do
Every child deserves an advocate in Bradford and Tioga Counties.
CYAN of the Northern Tier advances the health, safety, and wellness of children experiencing neglect and abuse in Pennsylvania by empowering Judicial Child Advocates. These community volunteers, appointed by judges, are the most effective tool to ensure children are on the path to permanency.
Constant
CYAN Judicial Child Advocates are often the only constant in a child’s life—the one person who shows up, listens, and acts in their best interest until permanency is achieved.
Connection
One CYAN Judicial Child Advocate to one child is an essential part of our operating mission. Because the best outcomes require constancy. And that is only achieved through a deep, enduring relationship.
Competence
Just showing up isn’t enough. This work is backed by Pennsylvania Statute Title 42, and requires skill and intensive training. This is both necessary and admirable.
Collaboration
CYAN Judicial Child Advocates can’t function alone. It takes a network of staff, judges, legislators, board members, and the community to empower them to effectively support each child’s best interests.
Our Impact
In FY25–26, 5 children were advocated for in Bradford and Tioga Counties.
- In FY25–265children had someone in their corner
- In FY25–263volunteers assigned to children
- 88%less likely to re-enter the care system
Who Can Volunteer
You Don't Need a Background in Law or Social Work
Every child deserves an advocate. We help transform you into one.
Judicial Child Advocates are certified, supported, and empowered by CYAN of the Northern Tier. Training is tailored to Pennsylvania's dependency court system, including state laws, court procedures, and the needs of the children you'll serve.
Get Involved
Your Path to Becoming an Advocate
From your first question to your first visit with a child, our staff walk with you at every step.
- Step 1
Tell us about yourself
Fill out a short form. It only takes a few minutes, and there's no commitment.
- Step 2
Talk with our team and interview
We'll reach out to answer your questions, talk about the role, and set up an interview.
- Step 3
Become certified
Complete the Judicial Child Advocate training, designed to handle challenging cases with nuance, skill, and care, and tailored to Pennsylvania's dependency courts.
- Step 4
Be sworn in
You're appointed by a judge as a Judicial Child Advocate, a role backed by Pennsylvania Statute Title 42.
- Step 5
Be a constant in a child's life
One advocate, one child: you get to know them, observe and report on their life, and give the judge the information and recommendations that help determine the best path forward.
Every child deserves an advocate.
Children in Bradford and Tioga Counties are waiting for someone in their corner. You could be that person.
Become an Advocate