Volunteer Spotlight: Stephen Todd

What inspired you to do pro bono work as an Attorney Ad Litem volunteer with Crossroads for Florida Kids?  
I had been a volunteer Guardian ad Litem for about a decade when in 2012, Rosemary Armstrong asked me to join her then-fledgling organization, Crossroads.  I don’t know about you, but I can’t say “no” to Rosemary Armstrong! 

Can you share a meaningful moment or experience from your time as a volunteer that has stayed with you?
There are so many meaningful moments and experiences from my time as a volunteer with Crossroads.  I will focus here on the remarkable progress of the organization. Watching Crossroads grow and thrive as an organization since its beginnings in 2012 has been immensely satisfying to me.  Seeing Crossroads attorneys progress as advocates for children is fun to watch.  Seeing Scott Tolliver become a successful Executive Director and watching as other attorneys have stepped up into leadership positions has given me confidence that Crossroads will be self-perpetuating, impacting children for years to come. 

What would you say to someone considering becoming an Attorney Ad Litem volunteer? 
“Just do it!” (Nike, please don’t sue me.).  You won’t regret it. You’ll get all the support you need.  These kids need your advocacy and support. Plus remember the oath we all took as Florida attorneys: “I will never reject, from any consideration personal to myself, the cause of the defenseless or oppressed…So help me God.”     

What’s a hidden talent you have that few people know about?
Well I don’t know about “talent,” but I enjoy painting.  It’s a wonderful way to use the much-neglected, walnut-sized creative part of my brain. 

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?
Israel and Spain.  Israel for spiritual reasons.  Spain because it was a special place for me and my wife.

What would be your theme song when you enter a courtroom?
Enter Sandman by Metallica.