Opening Statement From

CCLA's Executive Director

Dear Friends:

It's “Get to Know CCLA” month! We invite you to get to know our mission, our services and our community outreach. For over twenty years, we've stood together, committed to our mission of providing access to justice for those who need it most. This incredible journey has been defined by the dedication of our staff, volunteers, partners, and the countless individuals and families we have been privileged to serve.

Reflecting on our history, I am reminded of the thousands of lives we have touched— those facing unimaginable challenges who found hope, dignity, and the strength to persevere. From our work in family law to our advocacy for victims of human trafficking and domestic violence, advocating for seniors, and ensuring the essentials of a safe and stable life, each case, each client, and each story has been a testament to our unwavering commitment to justice.

As you read through this month’s newsletter and watch our posts on social media, you will “get to know us” and be reminded of our work. As our community’s needs grow and shift, we will continue to adapt, grow, and innovate, ensuring that our services remain a beacon of hope for all who turn to us in their time of need.

As always, thank you for your support and belief in our mission. Together, we will continue to build a community where justice is not just an ideal, but a reality for every person, regardless of their circumstances.

With heartfelt appreciation,

Mentoring the Future Generation of Lawyers

Legal interns had a significant impact on CCLA this summer! They enhanced our capacity to serve low-income individuals and families in need of legal assistance. Interns contributed by conducting legal research, drafting documents, and assisting with client interviews.

Their fresh perspectives and enthusiasm brought new energy to the office. Their experience culminated in a mock trial held in Judge Stacy Ross' 17th Circuit Judicial Courtroom.

Our interns gained invaluable hands-on experience in public interest law and their work helped CCLA fulfill our mission of providing high-quality legal services to vulnerable populations.

Thank you to this Summer’s CCLA Interns:

Mia Stevenson, Mya Ramhi, Josh Ham (FFLA Summer Fellow), Emilia Garcia, Yasuaki Sawamura, Jaime Shrewsbury, & Ben Zapson

Get To Know CCLA

Watch our Get to Know Us videos, check out our website, and learn about the legal services we provide in the community!

The Family Law & Victims of Crime Unit is essential in providing victims of crime, domestic violence, and abuse with the legal support they need to secure safety and justice. The unit plays a crucial role in helping survivors navigate the legal system and protect their rights. This targeted legal aid ensures that vulnerable individuals receive the protection and resources necessary to rebuild their lives free from fear and harm. CCLA's Family Court Self- Advocacy Program assists pro se litigants for their family law cases at the Central Broward Courthouse.

Florida ranks third in the country for reported Human Trafficking. Learn about our holistic services for survivors of human trafficking including expungements and enforcement of victims' rights.

Through CCLA’s Senior Citizen Law Project, residents over the age of 60 have access to free civil legal aid to address critical issues related to their safety, security and well-being.

Public benefits are vital to ensure safety and stability by providing individuals with access to the essentials of life, such as food, shelter, and healthcare. CCLA’S EACH Unit (Economic Advocacy and Community Health) provides a safety net, helping vulnerable populations maintain their well-being and dignity during challenging times. By securing these fundamental needs, public benefits empower individuals and families to focus on rebuilding their lives and achieving long-term stability.

GET TO KNOW US

on our YouTube Channel

Click below!

Conferences, Trainings, and Outreach

CCLA attended Fort Lauderdale FLITE Center’s Resource Fair! We had the opportunity to table alongside many other community partners and speak with youth aging out of the foster care system and other attendees. We met seniors at the City of Fort Lauderdale's Live Well, Leave a Legacy: A Senior's Guide to Health, Happiness, and Purpose event and let them know about our free legal services. At the Plantation Police Department’s National Night Out, we met many neighbors, other community organizations, and enjoyed watching the police department's demonstrations. The petting zoo was a highlight for CCLA! National Night Out is an effort by police departments to engage the community and get to know the communities they serve.

CCLA’s Director of Operations & Management, Katianna Mazard and Chief Financial Officer, Hal Eckard, attended the annual Southeast Project Directors and Administrators (SEPDA) and African American Project Directors Association (AAPDA) conferences in St. Petersburg, Florida. These conferences bring together legal aid program leaders from the Southeast region for an enriching experience of networking and professional development. The training sessions provided valuable insights into emerging trends and best practices. The collaborative environment fostered innovative thinking and provided solutions to common challenges currently faced by legal aid programs and the vulnerable populations we serve.

CCLA recognizes the significance of our staff being experts in their field and the importance of CCLA being at the forefront of issues that affect our clients and community.

We enjoy being a part of this community and look forward to engaging with more community members and providers as the year continues. If you would like CCLA to attend an event, conduct an outreach, or you have a topic you'd like us to address in an episode of Legal Learning on CCLA's Facebook page and YouTube channel, please contact us at: CCLAInfo@legalaid.org.

Check out our Community Outreach page.

Community Outreach