Community Legal Aid Services

We were proud to represent Ohio in Washington, D.C., this week, where we gratefully met with U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes and staff, and with staff members for Rep. Max Miller, Rep. Dave Joyce , and Rep. Michael Rulli. Executive Director Steven McGarrity, Board Member Nan Gelhard, Managing Attorney Marie Curry, Chief Development Officer Shirley Smith and Director of Communications and Marketing Kathleen Folkerth explained our services for their constituents and how federal dollars make a positive impact. Our staff attended along with colleagues from Legal Aid of Southeast and Central Ohio - LASCO and The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland, on behalf of the Alliance of Ohio Legal Aids.

Evictions are complex, but we can help! Check out all the resources we have to offer at communitylegalaid.org/eviction.

Sgt. Johnnie Downs, of Akron, is an Army veteran, not a prizefighter. But he sees a similarity between boxers and himself as he’s fought to remain in his home the past several years.

“When a boxer wins, he doesn’t do it alone," Sgt. Downs said. “He’s got someone in his corner. For me, legal aid has been in my corner.”

Sgt. Downs recently spoke on a panel at the Ohio Statehouse about how his legal aid attorney has helped him to remain in his home. Read more about his story: https://www.communitylegalaid.org/news/veteran-fights-foreclosure-help-legal-aid-attorney

Thirty people received free legal help today at the second Summit County Pro Bono Collaborative legal clinic. Thank you to the Akron area attorneys who stepped up to volunteer their time to answer questions and help attendees with legal forms. The next clinic will take place Aug. 7.