Director Rachel Rossi delivered a keynote address at the Community Legal Services (CLS) 57th Annual Pro Bono Awards Dinner. In her speech, she expressed gratitude to Executive Director Harvey and Andrea Ortiz, CLS’ Director of Pro Bono Services, for organizing the event. She also acknowledged Roger Handberg, the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Florida, for his office's collaboration with CLS.
Rossi emphasized the importance of pro bono work in bridging the justice gap and praised programs like CLS’ Pro Bono Academy. "Pro bono assistance is essential to disrupting barriers and closing the justice gap," she stated.
The Office for Access to Justice, which Rossi leads, focuses on initiatives such as dismantling economic barriers and promoting language access. The office also supports reentry programs for adults in custody and promotes access to legal help through various initiatives.
Rossi highlighted the role of pro bono attorneys in disaster recovery efforts. She noted that "legal aid providers and pro bono volunteers address urgent civil legal issues" after disasters like hurricanes Helene and Milton. These volunteers help survivors navigate complex legal challenges that arise during recovery.
She commended Florida's legal community for its resilience and creative problem-solving in response to recent hurricanes. Initiatives like the Disaster Relief Hotline by the Florida Bar Young Lawyers Division were recognized as innovative solutions for coordinating resources post-disaster.
The Federal Government Pro Bono Program was mentioned as a key effort in mobilizing federal employees to provide legal assistance during disasters. Rossi assured continued support from her office: "Our Office will continue to promote pro bono volunteerism by federal government employees."
Rossi concluded by thanking awardees at the dinner and reaffirming her office's commitment as a partner in their mission.