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Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County leans into its 75th anniversary celebration in May

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Dave Aronberg, Sarah Alsofrom, Bob Bertisch

Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County recently kicked off it’s year-long 75th anniversary celebration with a luncheon hosted by GL Homes on March 7 at Table 26 in West Palm Beach. From the left are State Attorney Dave Aronberg, Sarah Alsofrom and LASPBC Executive Director Bob Bertisch

The Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County (LASPBC) is celebrating its 75th anniversary with a number of events.

The year-long celebration began with an Anniversary Celebration Kickoff Luncheon hosted by GL Homes on March 7 at Table 26 in West Palm Beach. The event brought together long-time legal aid supporters, board members, and the 75th Anniversary Host Committee.

Dana Brookes, LASPBC director of philanthropy, welcomed the attendees and provided an overview of the events planned for the anniversary year. Bob Bertisch, executive director, expressed gratitude to those present for their “unwavering support.” He specifically recognized Pat James, a legal aid employee for over 49 years, and Richard Lubin, who served as board president for 15 years.

The retired Justice Barbara Pariente addressed the group, highlighting her passion for legal aid and commitment to LASPBC’s mission. She encouraged everyone to participate as sponsors of the upcoming 75th Anniversary Gala on May 11.

75th Anniversary Committee

Abby Beebe and Michelle Suskauer

Abby Beebe and former Florida Bar President Michelle Suskauer who will receive the “Suzanne and John Foley Serving Justice Award” at the Legal Aid of Palm Beach County’s 75th Anniversary Gala

Members of the 75th Anniversary Committee include: State Attorney Dave Aronberg, Florida Bar President-elect Designate Rosalyn Sia Baker Barnes and Edrick Barnes, Judge Rosemary Barkett, Abigail Beebe and Hampton Beebe, Katy Beer and Jerry Beer, Sharon Bock, Bill Bone, Dorothy Bradshaw and Sheriff Ric Bradshaw, Patience Burns, Jack Cook, Margaret Donnelley, Judge Samantha Feuer, Jeremy Johnson, Richard G. Lubin, Harvey E. Oyer III, Justice Pariente, Larry Rochefort, Catherine Royce, Wendy Sartory Link, Anita Scarola and Jack Scarola, Leon St. John III, Sidney A. Stubbs, Jr., Commissioner Gregg Weiss and Rebecca Weiss, and Sheryl Wood.

‘Gratitude’ for Community Support

“We are incredibly grateful for the tremendous support from our community,” said Bertisch. “A special thank you to GL Homes for hosting our kickoff event and for their ongoing support of our guardianship programs.”

75th Anniversary Gala

The Legal Aid of Palm Beach County’s 75th Anniversary Gala will be held on May 11 at the Kravis Center in West Palm Beach. Event Chairs are Sia and Edrick Barnes and Abigail and Hampton Beebe. The evening will celebrate individuals and organizations who champion access to justice.

  • Former Bar President Michelle Suskauer will receive the Suzanne and John Foley Serving Justice Award in recognition of her dedication to LASPBC’s mission.
  • The attorneys of Greenberg Traurig will be honored with the And Justice for All Award for their significant pro bono work.
  • Kathy Leone will be the first recipient of the Harreen Bertisch Children’s Advocacy Award for her commitment to youth in the community.

Tickets are available online at https://legalaidpbc.org/.

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