It's an odd collection of programs, but they are really united by advocacy for vulnerable people. |
One of our biggest concerns is that we haven't been able to pay staff very much. The starting salary for lawyers is about $31,500. It's a real barrier to getting and keeping people. We need people working here who really understand what our services are all about. It's an issue we're really struggling with. |
One of the wonderful things for us is that people who give money also tend to give time. |
Part of the focus is educating people about the day-to-day work we do at Legal Aid. ... We've raised our profile in the legal community in terms of the work we do and how we are a big part of the justice system. |
That might sound like a lot, but people should realize it doesn't go very far. |
That's really going to help us address a large issue. |
They're going to be on the road a fair amount. It's a very staff-intensive organization. A bulk of the funds goes to the staff. |
We make sure they are safe and living in good conditions. |