Dear trusted friends and supporters,
Thanks in large part to your support, Legal Aid is thriving and growing. This year we approved an almost $20 million budget and are operating 22 unique programs with a staff of over 160 employees. We have just completed a strategic planning process, and our Board of Directors has adopted a robust plan that will guide the agency for the next few years.
This week, I am celebrating my 45th year as the Executive Director of Legal Aid. As I reflect on my time here and look to the future, I am determined to leave LASPBC as strong as ever. A key component of the plan, and the continued growth and success of the agency, is a thorough and thoughtful succession plan at our executive leadership level. To that end, we are filling two key positions.
The first is a Director of Human Resources to help address the needs of our growing staff. The second is a newly created Deputy Director role. This new position will be a member of the leadership team and oversee the day-to-day delivery of legal services. By adding two vital roles to the leadership team, I will be able to be more focused on community partnerships, fundraising and outreach. These two positions will hopefully be filled by the end of the first quarter of 2026.
The next step in the multi-year plan is to begin a search for a new Executive Director. To be clear- I will remain the Executive Director for at least two more years. Our Board and I agree that we must begin a thoughtful national search for a new Executive Director and then have a period where a new leader can shadow me. We have incorporated this timeline into the strategic plan so that we can ensure Legal Aid’s continued strength and stability. The transition process is deliberately gradual and will allow all stakeholders to have input.
It is my goal to remain transparent throughout the process and keep our community informed along the way.
I need to share with you that as I look forward, I am filled with pride and hope. I am pleased to let you know that we also hope to soon begin a capital campaign. This undertaking represents our vision for expansion, stability in uncertain times, and enhancement of our capabilities, allowing us to better serve our community and extend our reach to those who need us most.
Your continued support and partnership remain essential to our success. Together, we will remain poised to deliver on our mission of providing equal justice for all.
Warm regards,
Robert A. Bertisch, Esq.
Executive Director
Legal Aid Society of Palm Beach County, Inc.
