Engelstad gift helps Legal Aid Center

With more Nevadans in need of legal assistance than at any time in the state's history because of a record number of foreclosures and bankruptcies, the Engelstad Family Foundation this week donated nearly $4 million to the Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada.

At a time when more than six out of 10 parties involved in Family Court matters represent themselves and more and more try to navigate a complex judicial system without assistance because they can't afford food let alone a lawyer, the center is completing an ambitious fundraising drive to build an office complex.

"We are pleased to help ensure that this fine organization continues to serve this important role in our community," said Kris Engelstad McGarry, the trustee of the foundation and the daughter of the late Ralph and Betty Engelstad.

In addition to helping thousands of people with divorce and child custody issues, Executive Director Barbara Buckley said the center has seen a dramatic increase in the number of people in trouble financially.

The center, established in 1958, provides free legal advice to those who cannot afford an attorney in noncriminal matters ranging from divorce and child custody issues to foreclosure and bankruptcy actions.

Buckley said the center reached its $13 million fundraising goal with the help of several philanthropic families and organizations, including the Boyd Foundation and the Lied Foundation Trust. The center also received HUD Community Development Block Grants from the city of Las Vegas and Clark County totaling $5.5 million. The center still needs $600,000 for fixtures and furnishings.