Championing Change: The Justice Works! Finale Celebrates $1.9 Million Raised

Justice Works!

That's a wrap!

As we bid farewell to the Justice Works! Campaign, we reflect on three remarkable years filled with transformative impact.

With heartfelt appreciation for the overwhelming support received, we're thrilled to announce that we've not only met but exceeded our initial fundraising target of $1.6 million, raising an impressive $1.9 million to assist low-income individuals and families in our community.

From 2021 to 2023, each contribution to Bay Area Legal has been instrumental in fueling the mission of this campaign. Through the unwavering dedication of our supporters, Bay Area Legal has experienced substantial growth, making our work possible and providing essential legal aid to families facing housing crises, Veterans seeking assistance with benefits and housing, children and young adults navigating the complexities of the foster care system, and so much more.

To every individual who contributed and played a part in the resounding success of this campaign, your dedication has left an indelible mark, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of you. Thank you for ensuring that Justice Works!

Thank you to everyone who was a part of this incredible three-year journey. Together, we've made a lasting impact and laid the groundwork for a brighter future."

 Jacqueline Simms-Petredis, Development Council Chair

Jacqueline Simms-Petredis, Development Council Chair

A Night to Remember: The Justice Works! Finale Celebration

Thanks to those who joined us in celebrating the success of the Justice Works! Campaign on February 2nd at Rooftop 220! There was no better way to commemorate this accomplishment than with the help of Thaddeus Bullard, aka WWE Superstar Titus O'Neil, who helped us launch the campaign in 2021, and partnered with Bay Area Legal to establish a vital resource center in the 33610 ZIP code that same year.

Event attendees were treated to an engaging and informative program that spotlighted Bay Area Legal initiatives and updates, all supported by funds raised through the Justice Works! Campaign. Through client stories, statistics, and insights, we showcased how their generosity has positively transformed our community, and how their support will continue to shape a brighter future for those in need.

Photography by Michael M. Sinclair

Photography by Michael M. Sinclair

View photos from the finale event and a list of pledged Hall of Justice Donors at the links below.

Thank you, Campaign Champions!

The Justice Works! Campaign would not have been possible without the dedication of our Board of Directors & Development Council whose hard work and innovation made the campaign a success!

2023-2024 Board of Directors

  • Chairperson: Tori C. Simmons
  • Chairperson-Elect: Sarah Lahlou-Amine
  • Treasurer: Vivian Cortes Hodz
  • Secretary: Jeffrey E. Cox
  • Michael A. Bedke
  • Rebecca C. Bell
  • Caroleen B. Brej
  • Christine L. Derr
  • Evan M. Malloy
  • Andrew M. O'Malley, Chairman Emeritus
  • Craig E. Rothburd
  • Alex M. Sarsfield
  • Linda L. Anderson Stanley
  • James D. Thaler, Jr.

2023-2024 Development Council

  • Sara L. Alpert Lawson, Co-Chair
  • Jacqueline A. Simms-Petredis, Co-Chair
  • Karen E. Cole, CFP, Vice Chair
  • J. Kevin Carey
  • Sharon Conklin Perez
  • Alexis M. Cotten
  • R. Thomas Elligett, Jr.
  • JT Garabrant, Advisor
  • Norman A. Harris
  • Charles F. Ketchey, Jr.
  • John F. Kynes
  • Lauren T. Mehta
  • Lisa Montero
  • Craig E. Rothburd
  • Robert A. Shimberg
  • Edward M. Waller, Jr.
  • Jessica Smith West

Apply for Services

Apply by phone Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m., or apply online anytime for non-emergency legal matters. Language interpreters are available to you at no cost.

How do I apply? Am I eligible?

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If you live or have a case in Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, Manatee, or Sarasota counties, we may be able to help.

Statewide Legal Helplines

If you live or have a case in Florida, we may be able to help.