Friends of Pickens County Guardian ad Litem (Friends of PCGAL) will host its annual luncheon on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at 12:00 noon at Occasions at Wedgefield in Easley, South Carolina. The event will bring together approximately 150 community members united in support of children in the Pickens County Department of Social Services (DSS) care system.

This year’s keynote speaker is Tori Hope Petersen, a bestselling author, nationally recognized speaker, and passionate foster care advocate. Recognized by Outreach Magazine as one of the “20 Rising Leaders for This Generation and the Next,” Petersen has testified before Congress, consulted with White House policy staff, and worked across party lines to champion better outcomes for those impacted by the foster care system. Her story of resilience and healing promises to inspire attendees to take meaningful action in their own community.

“We are thrilled to welcome Tori to Pickens County,” said Debbie Caruso, Treasurer of Friends of PCGAL. “Her voice and her experience bring national perspective to a deeply local mission — making sure every child in our community has a caring adult in their corner.”

Proceeds from the luncheon directly support Friends of PCGAL’s programs, including its annual Heart & Sole event, which provides back-to-school shoes and clothing for children in DSS care — helping them begin the school year with confidence and dignity.

Sponsorship opportunities are available at four levels — Presenting Sponsor ($5,000), Community Sponsor ($1,500), Supporting Sponsor ($750), and Small Business Sponsor ($250) — with benefits including logo placement, social media recognition, verbal acknowledgment at the event, and complimentary luncheon tickets.

To become a sponsor or purchase tickets, visit www.friendspcgal.org, email chair@pcgal.org, or call 864-434-6683. Sponsorship forms may be mailed with payment to Friends of Pickens County Guardian ad Litem, P.O. Box 1692, Easley, SC 29641. Venmo payment is also accepted.

ABOUT FRIENDS OF PICKENS COUNTY GUARDIAN AD LITEM

Friends of Pickens County Guardian ad Litem is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting court-appointed volunteer advocates who speak up for the best interests of abused and neglected children in the Pickens County family court system. Through fundraising, community engagement, and awareness efforts, Friends of PCGAL ensures that no child navigates the legal system without a voice.