Kris Lukens, Shannon McMahon, Lisa Campion, Jacqui Hood and Vanessa Branon Kittell
In a heartfelt demonstration of community support, the Franklin Grand Isle Bar Association recently made a significant contribution to Voices Against Violence, a nonprofit organization dedicated to assisting survivors of domestic and sexual violence in Franklin and Grand Isle counties. The association donated $2,250, which will help expand access to essential legal services for those most in need.
A Lifeline for Survivors in Need
Voices Against Violence, based in St. Albans, has been a cornerstone of support for survivors in the region since its founding in 1980. Over the years, the organization has provided critical resources, from emergency shelter to counseling and advocacy, helping countless individuals rebuild their lives after experiencing trauma.
One of the challenges Voices Against Violence faces is ensuring that survivors have access to adequate legal representation. While Laura Bierley, an attorney with Vermont Legal Aid's Victims' Rights Project, offers some legal services to survivors through Voices Against Violence, the current funding only allows for limited advice—not full legal representation. This gap in services means that many survivors, who are often navigating complex legal issues, are left without the comprehensive support they need.
Stepping Up to Fill the Gap
Recognizing this need, the Franklin Grand Isle Bar Association took action. Although the association does not have any members who specialize in this specific area of law, they were determined to make a difference. Through their fundraising efforts, they have provided the means to help expand the legal services offered by Bierley, ensuring that more survivors can receive the representation they deserve.
In a letter explaining their decision, the association emphasized the importance of addressing the needs of the local community. "While the work of the Vermont Bar Foundation is critical statewide, we have a serious need right here in our two-county area that we can address and demonstrate the caring of our legal community for those in the most need," the letter stated.
Honoring a Legacy
The association's donation was made in memory of Marianne Marshall, a long-time Franklin County attorney who passed away in 2023. Marshall, who was a former Deputy State's Attorney for Franklin County and a partner in Marshall and Marshall Legal Services in Swanton, was one of the first 100 women admitted to practice law in Vermont. Throughout her career, she was a tireless advocate for women and children, leaving a lasting legacy in the community.
On July 24, Franklin Grand Isle Bar Association President Lisa Campion, along with community outreach co-chairs Jacqui Hood and Vanessa Branon Kittell, visited Voices Against Violence to present the donation. Their visit not only underscored the association's commitment to supporting local survivors but also served as a tribute to Marshall's enduring impact.
A Brighter Future for Survivors
This donation is more than just financial support—it is a powerful statement of solidarity with those who have experienced domestic and sexual violence. With the expanded legal services made possible by the Franklin Grand Isle Bar Association’s generosity, more survivors in Franklin and Grand Isle counties will have the chance to seek justice, rebuild their lives, and move forward with hope.
As a community, we are stronger when we come together to support our most vulnerable members. The Franklin Grand Isle Bar Association’s contribution to Voices Against Violence is a shining example of what can be achieved when compassion meets action.
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