Asheville Launches $100,000 Challenge for Immigrant Aid

Community event supporting immigrant legal aid in Asheville

News Summary

Asheville is rallying support for immigrant legal aid through a $100,000 Giving Challenge initiated by Pisgah Legal Services. The challenge aims to provide crucial civil legal assistance for immigrants navigating the complex legal system in Western North Carolina, especially as the organization faces leadership transitions. So far, over $50,000 has been raised, highlighting the community’s commitment to ensuring immigrants have access to necessary resources.

Asheville Rallies to Support Immigrant Legal Aid with $100,000 Challenge

Asheville is busy brewing up some much-needed support for immigrants navigating the often confusing and complicated legal landscape. Pisgah Legal Services (PLS) has stepped forward with a bold plan: a $100,000 Giving Challenge aimed at providing free civil legal aid for immigrants across Western North Carolina (WNC). This effort comes at a time when PLS is facing a critical leadership transition with the retirement of its long-standing executive director.

A Heartfelt Call for Action

With only three dedicated attorneys covering an enormous 18-county region, the need for free legal representation for immigrants is dire. Local supporters initiated the giving challenge to raise crucial funds for PLS, which serves a significant number of people in dire need. The organization not only assists immigrants in obtaining legal status and work authorizations, but it also helps families who are concerned about the threats of deportation by preparing Power of Attorney documents.

The Justice for All Giving Challenge

The Justice for All Giving Challenge is a unique opportunity where every dollar donated will be matched dollar-for-dollar, doubling the impact of community contributions. So far, PLS has made impressive strides by raising over $50,000 towards their $100,000 goal. This fundraising initiative is not just about numbers; it’s about building up a supportive community where everyone has access to essential legal resources.

Simple Ways to Donate

Ready to make a difference? Donating is a breeze! Contributions can be made online at Pisgah Legal Services, by phone, or through email. Prefer the traditional approach? Mail your checks directly to the organization. Every contribution counts!

Service to Thousands

Last year alone, Pisgah Legal Services served over 25,000 individuals, offering a variety of legal aid and anti-poverty advocacy programs. They have a solid team of staff attorneys and utilize around 250 volunteer lawyers to help meet the needs of the community. Their extensive network operates multiple offices across the region including Asheville, Brevard, Hendersonville, and many more.

A Fond Farewell and a New Beginning

As PLS embarks on this new journey, it’s also bidding farewell to Jim Barrett, the executive director who has dedicated over 40 years to the organization. A retirement party was recently held in his honor, bringing together co-workers, volunteers, and friends to celebrate his incredible legacy. To continue honoring Barrett’s commitment to justice, PLS is establishing the Jim Barrett Fund for Justice, which has already raised $300,000 and aims to further support their mission.

Upcoming Events to Bridge the Gap

Mark your calendars! Pisgah Legal Services and Legal Aid of North Carolina are hosting an “Ask a Lawyer for Free” event in Asheville on March 17. This event promises to offer essential legal assistance, available on a first-come, first-served basis. No appointments are necessary, making it easy for those in need to get the help they deserve without the hassle.

Legal Clinics for Hurricane Recovery

In addition to general legal aid, PLS is also launching free legal clinics aimed at supporting those affected by Hurricane Helene. These clinics will focus on assisting with FEMA claims, insurance issues, and any other legal concerns that may arise in collaboration with various legal aid organizations. Such initiatives highlight PLS’s commitment to rebuilding lives and communities during tough times.

So whether you’re able to donate, volunteer your time, or attend an upcoming event, it’s clear that Asheville is uniting for a vital cause. Together, we can ensure that every immigrant has access to the legal support they need to thrive!