Appalachian Research & Defense Fund of KY Inc (AppalReD Legal Aid)

Overview

Appalachian Research & Defense Fund of KY Inc, commonly known as AppalReD Legal Aid, is a private non-profit law firm dedicated to delivering free civil legal assistance to eligible low-income individuals in eastern and south-central Kentucky. The organization operates in 37 counties across the Appalachian Mountains and rolling hills, a region home to a significant population living in poverty.

History

AppalReD Legal Aid was founded in 1970 by John Rosenberg, a renowned pioneer in Appalachian poverty law. Since its inception, AppalReD has maintained a strong tradition of excellence, attracting a diverse range of legal professionals and offering comprehensive training programs.

Operations

AppalReD Legal Aid provides legal services in various areas, including consumer law, education, employment law, family & juvenile law, housing law, and public benefits. The organization also conducts training sessions, such as an annual Domestic Violence Conference and Poverty Law seminars, which are open to private attorneys and legal staff. Additionally, AppalReD engages in community outreach and operates a Volunteer Lawyers Program. Its Low Income Tax Clinic extends support to residents across 86 Kentucky counties.

Structure

AppalReD Legal Aid operates multiple local law offices, each staffed by attorneys, paralegals, and legal secretaries. These professionals are highly trained in handling a variety of legal issues affecting low-income individuals, including matters related to food, shelter, income, personal safety, and child and elderly well-being. AppalReD does not handle criminal cases.

Governance and Leadership

The organization's leadership includes a Board of Directors, whose members are drawn from various professional backgrounds, including law and academia. The board conducts formal orientations for new members and conducts annual assessments of the chief executive. It also reviews and updates its conflict-of-interest policies annually.

Funding

AppalReD's work is supported by public and private grants along with donations, ensuring the continuation of its legal aid services to those in need.

Impact

By providing essential legal services to vulnerable communities, AppalReD plays a critical role in addressing poverty and enhancing access to justice in the Appalachian region of Kentucky. Its commitment to community engagement and legal training contributes significantly to the social fabric of the area it serves.