Friends of Legal Aid
There are 25 attorneys in the U.S. for every 6,400 people. And each American is guaranteed the constitutional right to legal representation and fair treatment. But for people living in poverty, there is only one attorney for 6,400 people. How is that fair?
Legal Aid closed more than 4,000 cases last year – but that was only one-fourth of the number of people who called the office and needed help.
That’s why Friends of Legal Aid of Western Missouri was created. Friends of Legal Aid of Western Missouri will become a powerful advocacy and support group for the transformative economic and social impact of the work of Legal Aid of Western Missouri, protecting people’s families, health, homes and livelihoods.
We will provide financial and programmatic support to Legal Aid of Western Missouri so access to justice can be provided to 100% of eligible recipients requesting services.
Membership
Membership in Friends is open to any individual willing to commit time, talent, and financial resources to the effort. Each member will have different combinations of those assets but will be expected to contribute in all three areas. The intent of the Friends organization is to provide meaningful avenues of support in the areas of:
Time
Friends will have opportunities to participate in educational meetings to learn more about Legal Aid’s work and hear directly from service providers and clients. They will have opportunities to volunteer to support events and recruit new members.
Talent
Friends will be expected to assist in advocacy with stakeholders and other members of the community. The may be asked to provide leadership to the Friends organization and assist with planning and executing events and initiatives.
Financial Support
Friends will pay annual dues of a minimum of $100 and will provide personal, corporate, or organizational financial contributions as appropriate for their means and specific situations. It is anticipated that Friends will solicit and develop substantial philanthropic and corporate contributions and identify other sources of support.
A preliminary calendar of activities for the Friends of Legal Aid for 2019 includes:
- Jun 14 – Justice for All Luncheon: Keynote speaker, Dayton Moore, General Manager of the Kansas City Royals. Sponsorships and tickets for sale.
- Friends Membership Meetings: Two or three meetings during the course of the year with informative and inspirational presentations on the work of Legal Aid.
- Annual Appreciation Social Event: An event simply to say “thank you” for everything that the volunteers and organizations are doing to support the effort.
Become a Friend of Legal Aid today!