When the calendar flipped to January 2019, I was wringing my hands thinking about our fundraising goal of over $4,000,000.

So often, I get busy and distracted and I forget to offer even a simple “thank you.” Thanksgiving, however, is dedicated to a singular focus: gratitude.

By the time a survivor of intimate partner abuse seeks legal help at the Fulton County Courthouse, they’ve typically reached the pinnacle of a crisis. 

Our anonymous donor and all of the contributors to the SAFE Fund have done nothing less than re-make the future of our work. 

As a social worker, I knew I wanted to work with survivors of abuse – but I didn’t predict that I’d end up working with a bunch of attorneys. 

As the Community Assistance Manager, it is my hope that AVLF continues to be that safe space where people feel comfortable saying “I need help.”

It has been the greatest honor of my life to advocate for the people of Vine City, English Avenue, Ashview Heights, and AUC. I often tell people that it was in these neighborhoods that I found the soul of Atlanta.

When we hear ‘domestic violence’, we think first and foremost of a physical attack. But violence and abuse can go far beyond a physical altercation.

Ironically, our formative decision to stay small and focus on impact resulted in unprecedented growth. Now it’s time to re-group.

By building access to justice, AVLF’s programs help make the Fulton County Courts more accessible, equitable, and just.

Lizanne Thomas (Jones Day) and David Balser (King & Spalding) are leading the charge for AVLF’s 2019 Annual Campaign. We hope to raise $1 million this year.

Executive Director Marty Ellin discusses major milestones at Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation—and why this work remains relevant.