Posted January 28, 201712:34 pm
Lauren Tonti is a law student at Case Western Reserve University who volunteers with The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland. This year, she is studying abroad in Paris - but still wants to support Legal Aid. So, she is raising money for Legal Aid through her first half-marathon.
Toggle below to make a gift to honor Lauren's first half-marathon, or click here.
Here's a message from Lauren about her passion for Legal Aid:
"Access to justice is critical. It paves the path to both challenge and change the law. The Legal Aid Society of Cleveland provides access to justice through free legal advice, representation, and education to thousands of individuals in Ohio’s Ashtabula, Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, and Lorain counties.
As a law student, I have participated in Brief Advice Clinics, where community members meet with volunteer attorneys to briefly discuss their legal questions or case. Witnessing these consultations, and the visible gratitude, relief, and empowerment they inspire, has very much enriched my legal training and shaped personal perspective.
Knowing Legal Aid's tangible impact in my community, I want to support its efforts in the ways that I can. That’s why I’ll be running my first half-marathon, the Fitbit Semi de Paris, to benefit the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland. This race is a personal challenge. I’ve never run this many miles in my life. But so many Legal Aid clients face far greater challenges. I know that the hours I spend huffing, puffing, sweating and sprinting will help ensure viable routes to justice. But I can only cross the finish line with your help. In 2015 alone, the Legal Aid Society of Cleveland handled 8,126 cases. I’m aiming to raise $812.60 to help fund cases in the years to come. Please consider supporting me in this effort to support this invaluable service and increase access to justice in my Cleveland community!"