The HELP-U Clinic Expands to Meet the Needs of Rochester City Seniors
VLSP offers a wide variety of free legal clinics that shift and expand to meet the needs of our community. The HELP-U clinic is just one example. Made possible by a grant from the City of Rochester, the program was originally created exclusively for senior residents of the Rochester Housing Authority (RHA) buildings. But due to increasing demand, HELP-U expanded this year to offer clinics for low-income seniors in other community locations in the City of Rochester. HELP-U is the product of a partnership between VLSP and volunteer attorneys from Harter Secrest and Emery LLP and the Counsel’s Office at the University of Rochester. Pro bono attorneys provide legal services consisting of preparing wills, health care proxies, powers of attorney, and other documents involved with estate planning. The success of the clinic is owed, in large part, to Jon Webster, then the pro bono coordinator at the firm, and David Ferris, who trained and mentored attorneys who were new to this practice area. Ben Mudrick has succeeded Jon Webster as the firm’s pro bono coordinator.
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| Pro bono attorneys Graham S. Leonard, Mark R. Wright, and Andrew J. Anderson at Lifespan's Wolk Cafe at Sibley Square |
During the past 3 years, clinics were held at Ridge Hudson, Parliament Arms, Danforth, Kennedy Tower, Lake Towers, Lena Gantt Estates, Lexington Court, and University Towers. That’s quite a list and a testament to the commitment made by the pro bono attorneys to appear wherever there is a need. The expansion of the program allows the clinic to partner with other agencies serving the same clientele. I witnessed one group of dedicated volunteer attorneys at a recent clinic held at Lifespan’s downtown location.
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| Pro bono attorney David R. Ferris |
I had the privilege of meeting David R. Ferris, Andrew J. Anderson, and Graham S. Leonard, attorneys with Harter Secrest and Emery, LLP, and Mark R. Wright, an attorney with the University of Rochester Counsel’s Office. Each of them appeared at Lifespan with an armful of files and a room of clients. I spoke with two of the clients who gave glowing reviews of the service. One client said it was “a great service” and she hoped that there would be more advertising. She tried to spread the word to her friends. When I asked another client about her impressions, she spoke at length saying: “I’m happy they came through...they were patient and understanding of the needs of senior citizens….the service was excellent, the representatives were great, and I’m very thankful for the services rendered.” She went on to speak about how easy it is to put off doing what you need to do in order to avoid chaos later. She felt that estate planning definitely avoided a chaotic outcome.
Having joined VLSP recently, I’m still learning about the legal community in Rochester. Everyday I’m impressed by the care and compassion I see in attorneys like David, Andrew, Graham, and Mark. They donate their legal skills to people who are vulnerable and lack the means to prepare for the future. Their efforts empower their clients and bring peace of mind by ensuring their wishes are heard - even if they don’t have the means to hire a private attorney.
VLSP celebrates the HELP-U clinic expansion and the volunteers who make it possible!
For more information on the HELP-U Project, contact VLSP Attorney Ann Williams at (585) 295-5708.
By Catherine J. Palermo, Pro Bono Director
