Volunteer Spotlight – Brianne “Bri” Wendol, Hall Booth Smith, P.C.

What inspired you to become an Attorney Ad Litem volunteer with Crossroads For Florida Kids?

During my time at UF Law, I became involved with their Gator Team Child Juvenile Law Clinic. Through this clinic, we worked as Attorneys ad Litem for children in the dependency and delinquency systems in Alachua County. As someone who has always loved working with kids (and even considered being a teacher in my youth), I quickly discovered I had a passion for helping these kids going through the court system. Once I graduated and moved back to Tampa, I knew I wanted to continue being an Attorney ad Litem. Luckily, a former co-worker and Crossroads board member Olivia Mejido Udell introduced me to Crossroads…and I’ve been volunteering ever since.

Can you share a meaningful moment or experience from your time as a volunteer that has stayed with you?

The most meaningful moment that I’ve experienced so far is getting to witness some of my clients graduate from Mental Health Court. It’s a moment where they get to be celebrated for the hard work and dedication that they each have put into their cases.

What would you say to someone considering becoming an Attorney Ad Litem volunteer?

Take the leap of faith and go for it. This work is rewarding and you are truly helping out children who are going through stressful times. Crossroads has the resources to assist you with whatever you may come across.

Where is your favorite place you’ve traveled to, or if you haven’t been there yet, where is at the top of your list and why?

I am a huge travel fan, so this is a super hard question, and I don’t think I can pick just one! I’ll give a top 3: Machu Picchu in Peru, a little ski village in Japan called Nozawa Onsen, and Florence, Italy.