Help Ensure Equal Access to Justice:
Legal Aid of Western Missouri provides free civil legal assistance to people who need it most and can afford it least. With offices in Kansas City, Independence, Joplin, St. Joseph, and Warrensburg, we serve a 40-county region where nearly 300,000 people live in poverty.
Since 1964, Legal Aid has helped individuals and families protect their rights, build stability, and move forward with confidence. Through high-quality legal representation, education, and advocacy, we help people facing financial hardship navigate issues involving housing, family safety, consumer debt, public benefits, immigration, and many other civil legal matters.
Our mission is simple: justice should be accessible to everyone — not just those who can afford an attorney.
Why Board Service Matters:
Our volunteer Board of Trustees drives Legal Aid’s mission forward by providing strategic leadership, responsible governance, and championing equal justice for all throughout western Missouri.
Board members bring diverse experiences and community perspectives, shaping Legal Aid’s future and amplifying our impact across the region.
What to Expect:
- Board members are expected to:
- Attend bimonthly Board meetings held in a hybrid format on the fourth Thursday of every other month at 5:30 p.m.
- Maintain consistent participation and avoid missing more than two consecutive Board meetings.
- Serve on at least one Board committee.
- Guide Legal Aid’s mission, programs, finances, and direction with strategic oversight.
- Fulfill fiduciary responsibilities to keep Legal Aid financially sound, accountable, and positioned for long-term success.
- Support Legal Aid’s community engagement and fundraising efforts.
Why Serve:
As a Legal Aid Board member, you will:
- Make an Impact – Help expand access to justice for individuals and families across western Missouri.
- Grow as a Leader – Build experience in nonprofit governance, strategy, and organizational leadership.
- Expand Your Network – Connect with community leaders, attorneys, and professionals who share a commitment to public service.
- Learn and Contribute – Gain insight into critical community needs while helping shape meaningful solutions.
- Give Back – Use your time, talents, and expertise to strengthen Legal Aid’s reach and effectiveness.
Serving on the Board lets you make a meaningful difference—ensuring justice is available to all, regardless of income.
If you are interested in learning more about serving on the Legal Aid of Western Missouri Board of Trustees, we would love to start a conversation. Email Emily Swenson at eswenson@lawmo.org.
