During the 2024–2025 school year, Georgia’s chronic absenteeism rate was almost 20%, with more than 360,000 students missing 10% or more of school days. Behind each statistic is a child facing barriers to school attendance that are often beyond their control.
As the only nonprofit in Georgia solely dedicated to reducing chronic absenteeism and promoting positive attendance habits, the Truancy Intervention Project (TIP) partners with schools and families to help get kids back on track. This work includes representing students and families in truancy court—ensuring they are heard, supported, and engaged in school.
“Intervention is required for these truant youth to attain the benefits of regular attendance and is likely the difference between a lifetime of failures and a lifetime of accomplishments. As a volunteer, you will be actively involved in the process necessary to address related risk factors resulting in a better chance for success.”
— Hon. Juliette Scales, Presiding Judge, Fulton County Juvenile Court
At the heart of our work are volunteers, including attorneys who provide pro bono legal representation to students and families. By stepping in at critical moments, volunteers help shift the response to absenteeism away from punitive action and toward stability, problem-solving, and second chances.
Interested in getting involved?
Here’s what you need to know about becoming a TIP volunteer attorney!
(Download our informational volunteer flyer here.)
What do TIP volunteer attorneys do?
TIP volunteer attorneys represent students in truancy court as legal advocates work closely with families, schools, judges, and social workers. Their role goes beyond the courtroom—helping connect students to resources and supporting their academic, emotional, and legal needs.
What are the requirements for TIP volunteer attorneys?
The commitment to volunteer with TIP is meaningful but manageable—typically one case per year and approximately 25 hours. TIP volunteer attorneys are active members of the Georgia Bar who are eager to guide, mentor, and advocate for young people. TIP volunteer attorneys must pass a background check and are asked to make a one-year commitment. They receive CLE-eligible training and ongoing support.
I’m not a lawyer. Are there other ways to get involved?
Absolutely. TIP relies on community support in many forms, and there are meaningful ways to help beyond the courtroom. Volunteers can assist with school-wide attendance incentives, support our holiday gift drive, or provide administrative support to help our programs run smoothly.
A donation to TIP is also a powerful way to put your commitment to youth advocacy and educational equity into action—helping us reach more students and families when they need support most.
I want to make an impact! How do I get started?
Getting involved is easy. Fill out the volunteer interest form on our website to get started, and our team will be in touch with more information about upcoming trainings and opportunities. If you have questions or would like to learn more, you can also reach out directly to Adrian Wright at awright@truancyproject.org. Be sure to follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook for updates!
Thank you for your interest in standing up for students and families across Georgia. Together, let’s make 2026 our most impactful year yet.