Legal Aid Clinic Opens in Highland Park

The Highland Park-Highwood Legal Aid Clinic opened for business at the firehouse Youth Center at 1830 Green Bay Road in Highland Park.

“We as a community have a desire as well as a moral obligation to meet the needs of our most vulnerable neighbors, including our seniors, economically challenged and immigrant populations,” said Founder and Honorary Chair Mayor Nancy Rotering. “The Clinic provides an opportunity to advocate for the health, safety and security of our residents and their families. This collaboration by the City, elected officials, the legal community and countless volunteers proves that working together, we find solutions to meet the needs and achieve the hopes of our community.”

READ MORE: Highland Park-Highwood Legal Aid Clinic Nears Opening Date

The clinic was formed after a 2013 needs assessment study by the Human Services Task Force identified the need for quality and affordable legal services in the areas of immigration, domestic violence and housing. It will serve those who live in Highland Park or Highwood who meet financial eligibility for services in these areas. The income level for services has been set at 250% of the federal poverty level for a family of four (about $60,000).

“This legal aid clinic was designed to provide access to justice for people who cannot afford it, by attorneys who have the desire, time and inclination to provide those services in our neighborhood. I am proud to be part of an organization with such a wonderful mission” said Steve Elrod, Treasurer and Secretary of the Board.

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About 40 residents, Founding Sponsors and the Student Youth Board attended a grand opening held Friday.

Pictured: Kathryn Vanden Berk, Board Chair and Managing Attorney, Mayor Nancy Rotering, Founder and Honorary Chair, Karyn Davidman, Executive Director, Terry Kass, Fundraising Chair and Board Member, Hal Franke, Founding Sponsor with Meltzer, Purtill & Stelle and Steven Elrod, Secretary Treasurer of the Board.