When you think about promises, consider this one. A promise made by a group committed to action, justice, and hope. A group that acts for others, voices for justice, and gives hope through 
their actions. This is the story of dedication and service of the Neighborhood Advocacy Program at Legal Services of Eastern Missouri.
Arnold Stricker of Saint Louis In Tune recently engaged in a conversation with Peter Hoffman, the managing attorney for the Neighborhood Advocacy at Legal Services of Eastern Missouri. Peter explained the work the Program does as part of the Legal Services of Eastern Missouri and how it's making a tangible, life-changing impact on the communities.
Legal Services of Eastern Missouri
Peter shed light on Legal Services of Eastern Missouri which is a non-profit law firm that has been helping individuals who can't afford legal assistance for over 50 years. They handle a wide range of issues including eviction cases, victims of domestic violence seeking protection orders, and consumer cases, but they do not handle criminal matters like parking tickets. Importantly, the services of the firm are free and they also make use of pro-bono or volunteer lawyers to increase their capacity.
Neighborhood Advocacy Services
The Neighborhood Advocacy Program, led by Hoffman, is newer and different in approach. This Program doesn't focus on individuals as clients. Instead, their clients are neighborhood associations and other community groups. They focus on neighborhoods, helping them deal with legal issues with property rights, working to prevent and reduce vacant and abandoned properties.
Understanding and Dealing with Vacant and Abandoned Properties
One of the major challenges for neighborhoods in St. Louis, Peter pointed out, are vacant and abandoned houses. The Program is committed to tackling this problem, working on both preventative and remedial solutions. They work proactively with families to help resolve property title issues and they work with neighborhoods to return vacant and abandoned properties to productive use.
The question often arises about why the city is not doing more to handle these deserted properties. Peter explained that while the city is indeed working on solutions, resources are stretched thin. The local government is doing what it can within its constraints, but these private statutes supplement the city’s code enforcement efforts.
Private Partnership as Imperative
Lastly, Peter highlighted the immense contribution made by volunteer lawyers, discussing how the help of these volunteers is instrumental in handling their workload. They also collaborate with firms wanting to work proactively in supporting neighborhoods.
Raising Public Awareness
Concluding the show, Arnold commended the efforts of Peter and the whole of the Legal Services of Eastern Missouri. He encouraged listeners to visit their website for more information and to show support, reflecting how vital the organization is to the fabric of the St. Louis community.
Conclusion
In a region with significant challenges including vacant and abandoned properties, the Neighborhood Advocacy Program at Legal Services of Eastern Missouri stands as a beacon of hope. Through their invaluable work and the support of volunteers, this energetic group is aiding St. Louis communities, preserving neighborhoods and improving the quality of life for city residents.
