2022-2023 Foundation Campaign

Dear Colleague:

We need your help more than ever. Over the last several years, the Erie County Bar Foundation has worked hard to increase awareness of the assistance provided to attorneys in need. Fortunately, these efforts have proven to be successful, as more of our colleagues have courageously come forward seeking help. In fact, the Foundation provided over $300,000 in direct aid to our colleagues during the pandemic. However, as the demand increases, so does the need for increased contributions to ensure that we can assist those who need us most.

The Foundation is here to provide financial assistance, support, and comfort to attorneys struggling with debilitating illness, substance use disorders, mental health issues, or other unforeseen circumstances beyond their control. While preserving the anonymity of those it serves, the Foundation mobilizes quickly and works diligently to intervene when one of our own is faced with an unexpected crisis. We are an organization for lawyers, by lawyers.

​Each year, many of you graciously contribute to our annual campaign without knowing the identity of those who benefit from your generosity. To you, we ask that you continue to play a crucial role in our efforts and consider increasing your gift to ensure no one with the courage to seek help is turned away. Although we will never tell you who we help and exactly how we help, I can assure you that if you knew, you would be astounded by the value of your contribution.

To those of you who are relatively new to the profession or our legal community, and have yet to contribute, we ask that you give whatever you can. Every contribution, large or small, goes a long way in helping your fellow attorneys and their families. As we all know, a time of intense difficulty or trouble can strike at any time and is not reserved for those further down the road in their legal careers.

Please take a few minutes to complete and return the enclosed pledge card. As you will see, donating is easier than ever.

Finally, if you need help, please call the Foundation at (716) 852-1777.   Your request will be kept confidential.

​ Thank you!

Sincerely,

John E. Richmond
Chair, Campaign 2022-23