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Panel attorney Cassie Springer-Sullivan knew since she was sixteen years old that she wanted to be an attorney and use her skills, knowledge, and empathy to assist people in times of crisis. Cassie started her own law firm in 2008 and is committed to serving ALRP clients with disabling HIV/AIDS who suffer the devastation of losing their long-term disability income.

When HIV began to impair his ability to walk, ALRP client Matt ordered a motorized wheelchair and eagerly awaited its delivery. However, he soon realized that the elevator in his building was too small to accommodate the wheelchair. When his landlord refused to accommodate his disability, Matt turned to ALRP staff attorney Diana Hughes and Panel attorney Andrew Westley.

Searching for housing in the San Francisco Bay Area is undeniably stressful. But for a person living with HIV/AIDS, the inability to secure safe, affordable housing can lead to homelessness or exile from San Francisco. A new home would cement a long-awaited new beginning for ALRP client Hector R. When Hector’s application to an affordable housing development was denied in January 2010, he turned to ALRP for assistance.

Mounting medical bills and credit card debt can feel crushing for ALRP clients. ALRP Panel attorney Mark Chernev sees bankruptcy as a helpful option for clients who have fallen on tough times. “My work is very rewarding,” Mark says. “It’s my goal to help clients gain financial control over their lives and give them a fresh start.”

Our friends of the Academy have made significant contributions to ALRP legal programs over the years. The annual AOF “Oscar Night” Gala has raised millions to support AIDS service agencies like ALRP. Here are a few photo highlights…

Imagine being forced to choose between life-saving medical benefits and accepting the heartfelt gift bequeathed by a loved one who has passed away. With his specialized knowledge of special needs trusts, ALRP Panel attorney Kevin Urbatsch prevents individuals with disabilities from having to choose.

Unfortunately, harassment and discrimination can be common occurrences for people living with HIV. Yet many of these injustices go unchallenged due to the time, energy, and stress of asserting one’s rights while struggling with the day-to-day challenges of managing a chronic medical condition.

Over the years, ALRP collected gate donations and staffed Beer and Margarita beverage booths at the annual San Francisco Pride Parade & Celebration. It was hard work, but also great fun…especially as the day wore on!