By Michael Nameche, Director of Development
CCH gathered members of the local legal community once again for its annual Justice Circle reception on the last evening of April. Although the weather forecast called for thunderstorms, CCH pressed on and prevailed, much like our ongoing advocacy and pursuit of justice.
At the event, the staff of the Law Project presented recognition awards. Up first was Rickey Vaughn, a client of the Law Project who was tenacious in seeking a reversal of a decision that denied his family subsidized housing. Housing attorney Camilla Krauss presented the award to Mr. Vaughn, saying that his “unshakeable optimism and invaluable partnership” in the case inspired CCH’s attorneys to continue to push back even when the chances for a positive outcome seemed slim. Those assembled at the event were happy to hear that Mr. Vaughn would be moving his family into their new home the next day.
When Rickey got up to the podium to accept his award for his unwavering determination to see this case through to the end, he graciously acknowledged the role of CCH attorneys Camilla Krauss and Kyle Voils in the successful reversal:
CCH’s Law Project Staff
Kyle Voils, Rickey Vaughn, & Camilla Krauss.
“Not only through their expertise of the law, but by being human and empathetic. I recognized that it was more than a job for them. At times it seemed they wanted me to have it more than even I wanted to!”
Gwen Kizer Mashon, Legal Aid Chicago’s Associate Director in the Public Benefits Practice Group, was recognized for her advocacy and efforts to ensure that individuals experiencing homelessness receive vital public benefits.
Longtime CCH ally John Shapiro, a partner at Porter, Wright, Morris & Arthur LLP, was recognized for always answering the call to provide pro bono assistance to people experiencing homelessness.
The Law Project also recognized the vital efforts to meet the moment by the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights. CCH Staff Attorney Melissa West put it plainly when presenting the award:
“We know who we can call when federal bad actors target our communities. Thank you, ICIRR, for your critical leadership and expertise. We are so lucky to know you and to work alongside you.”
Deputy Director Vero Castro was on hand to accept the award and took her moment at the podium to thank CCH “for your partnership, your leadership, and your unwavering belief that everyone deserves a place to call home.”
ICIRR Deputy Director Vero Castro
CCH is grateful to all the sponsors that made the night so successful, especially our Signature level sponsors Fifth Third Bank and Baker McKenzie. We would also like to mention our gratitude to our new host sponsor, Barnes & Thornburg, for their gracious hospitality.
Although the reception has passed, CCH is still happy to accept new members and contributions to this year’s Justice Circle. Add your name to the growing list of supporters with a tax-deductible contribution here.
