A Look Back at the 2025 Champions for Justice Donor Appreciation Event
On November 19, friends and supporters gathered at Centro Asturiano de Tampa to honor the generosity that powered our mission in 2025.
The 2025 Champions for Justice Donor Appreciation Event recognized Hala A. Sandridge, recipient of the 2025 Lt. Gen. James B. Peake Award; The Stichter Family, honored with the 2025 Judge Don Castor Award; and The Hillsborough County Bar Foundation, recipient of the 2025 Richard C. Woltmann Group Advocacy Award.
Thank you to Bob Thompson of Thompson Brand Images for being our emcee, and to Peter Bradshaw of Deuce Bradshaw Photo for capturing it all on camera.
A Special Announcement: Pillars of Justice
Bay Area Legal proudly announced "Pillars of Justice," a new society honoring extraordinary supporters whose philanthropic and pro bono contributions have shaped our mission. Past board member and philanthropist Mark A. Brown — whose gift is the largest individual contribution in our history — became the society's inaugural honoree. In a surprising reveal, Brown stepped out of anonymity as the donor behind the $500,000 gift that established the Woltmann Endowment in hopes of inspiring others.
Honoring The Hillsborough County Bar Foundation, The Stichter Family & Hala Sandridge
The Judge Don Castor Award
For decades, the Stichter Family has embodied generosity and service. From the late Don M. Stichter's leadership to the continual support of Ellen Stevens Stichter, Scott Stichter, Steven Stichter, Lynn Tate, and others, their family's commitment to philanthropy and volunteerism has inspired lasting impact. Their legacy of giving continues to strengthen access to justice across Tampa Bay.
The Stichter Family
The Hillsborough County Bar Foundation
The Richard C. Woltmann Group Advocacy Award
The Hillsborough County Bar Foundation has been a steadfast partner in advancing our mission, most notably through its generous support of the L. David Shear Children's Law Center. This vital funding endures that children in foster care have a voice in court and the opportunity for safety, stability, and a brighter future.
The Lt. General James B. Peake Award
Hala A Sandridge was presented with the Lt. General James B. Peake Award. Hala has championed access to legal services for more than 30 years. Most recently, she led efforts to secure funding for Bay Area Legal's Florida Veterans Legal Helpline, ensuring veterans receive the support they've earned. Her enduring leadership and compassion continue to strengthen our mission.
Hala A. Sandrige
Thank You to Our Generous Event Sponsors:
Voice for Justice Sponsors
Friend in Justice Sponsors
- Mike & Rachelle Bedke
- Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC
- Carey, O'Malley, Whitaker, Mueller, Roberts & Smith, P.A.
- Castor-Bell-Lewis Family Foundation
- Greenberg Traurig, P.A.
- Hancock Whitney Bank
- Hill Ward Henderson
- Gwynne A. Young
Circle of Excellence Sponsors
- The Baldwin Group
- Cortes Hodz Family Law & Mediation, P.A.
- Delzer, Coulter & Bell, P.A.
- EXIT Suncoast Realty
- Gunn Law Group, P.A.
- John & Stacy Kynes
- Morgan Business Solutions
- Truist Legal Specialty Group
In-Kind Sponsors
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