2021-22 President Christopher K. Ralston

Why do I give? When I tell people I’m the President of the Louisiana Bar Foundation, I get two follow-up questions. The first is usually: what is the LBF? This is the easier one. The LBF is the state’s largest funder of civil legal aid. We partner with a trusted network of more than 70 organizations that lead community-driven efforts to help families facing non-criminal, civil legal challenges. Our goal is to make sure that all Louisianans, regardless of their background, zip code, or income level, have access to the civil legal services that they need.

After hearing about our impressive impact, for me, it logically follows to support the LBF. My dedication to this cause comes from a firm belief in the need for a fair and equal justice system, regardless of income or status. I believe in the power of the legal profession to help those who might otherwise be abandoned by the system. I understand that not everyone comes to that decision so easily.

Without fail, the second question always includes the “why”. Why do I give? Why should anyone care? Why LBF over any other organization? Especially during the season of giving, we’re approached by many deserving causes and organizations. The truth of the matter is our civil justice system is in crisis. As a high-poverty state with a lack of resources, Louisiana has a pressing need for increased investments in civil legal aid. Now is the time to expand our investments and establish a robust civil justice system we can all be proud of.

I believe in the LBF as a community stakeholder. For more than 30 years, LBF has been a trusted authority on civil legal aid funding. Our decades of experience as a responsible steward of funds, along with our well-established partnerships, has allowed us to help hundreds of thousands of Louisiana residents gain access to the legal system.

I ask that you all consider getting involved with the work of the LBF by making your gift today! There are plenty of ways to give, but one easy option is to choose the LBF as your preferred organization through Amazon Smile and a portion of every purchase is dedicated directly to our organization! You may also make your gift online at raisingthebar.org/YearEnd, using the enclosed card and envelope, or scanning the QR code on the back of the newsletter. If you have any questions, please contact Danielle Marshall at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

So, why do I give? I give because I want to ensure all Louisianans have equal access to the justice system. I give because I trust the LBF as an integral part of the civil legal aid community. I give because I believe our community and our state are better and stronger when people have hope and opportunity rather than despair and futility. I give because together we can meet the legal needs of our state’s most vulnerable people. Please consider giving to the LBF today.