Second Annual EFLRP Benefit More Than Doubles Past Support

Two hundred friends of the Evelyn Frank Legal Resources Program (EFLRP) from the legal, geriatric, and human services fields, came out to show their support of this vital Selfhelp program on December 9th, enabling us to exceed a challenge grant set forth by FJC – A Foundation of Philanthropic Funds. Distinguished honorees were Peter J. Strauss, Esq., of Epstein Becker & Green, P.C., one of the pioneers of Elder Law; NYSARC, Inc., for helping thousands of New Yorkers access Medicaid through its pooled trust; and Robert W. Sparks, Esq., of Dechert LLP, who received the Pro Bono award for his outstanding work on behalf of Selfhelp clients.

During the program held at the Brotherhood Synagogue, Event Chairman Robert S. Lewis spoke of how his family benefited from the legal expertise of EFLRP staff. Honoree Peter J. Strauss spoke eloquently of the imperative for reform of government funding for long-term care services and of the importance of protecting the rights of those who struggle with poverty. Katherine Wilson Conroy, President of NYSARC, graciously accepted the award in honor of NYSARC’s trust services. Both Ms. Conroy and Selfhelp CEO Stuart C. Kaplan spoke of the related missions of Selfhelp’s work with seniors and NYSARC’s work with people with cognitive impairments – all of whom seek to remain independent in the community. Robert Sparks of Dechert LLP accepted the Pro Bono Award for his litigation that prevented the eviction of an older man with cognitive disabilities by his own brother, from his home of 40 years.

Over the last seven years, EFLRP, under the guidance of its director, Valerie J. Bogart, has become a highly respected name in the field of Elder Law. EFLRP truly epitomizes what Selfhelp Community Services stands for – both advocating on behalf of those who have no voice as well as training a wide array of professionals in order to provide them with the tools to help others.

EFLRP provides free, legal services to vulnerable elderly men and women who cannot afford legal representation, and every year it faces the challenge of raising the funds needed to continue its crucial work. As a result of individual and foundation support, the benefit raised over $119,000 – enabling EFLRP’s experiencedteam of lawyers and advocates to continue to fight for the rights of New York City’s frailest and most vulnerable populations.

From L-R: Ernest L Bial, Chairman SCS Foundation; Honoree Peter J. Strauss; Benefit Chairman Robert S. Lewis; Valerie J. Bogart, EFLRP Director; Victor A. Wyler, Selfhelp President.