Administer Justice wishes to thank the many friends, churches, and businesses who have

graciously given their time, prayers and financial support during the 2009 calendar year.

Because we truly value and appreciate your support, every effort has been made to ensure the

accuracy of this report. If we have inadvertently omitted or misspelled your name, please

accept our sincere apologies and contact us with the correct information at (847) 844-1100, or

e-mail your updated information to help@administerjustice.org.

The Vision: To administer justice with mercy and compassion.

The Mission: To administer justice through a comprehensive program of educational

outreach, legal assistance, financial counseling, and conflict resolution

services, to empower the powerless, give hope to the hopeless and

show mercy and compassion to those in need.

The Reason: Although low-income individuals accused of a criminal act are provided with an

attorney if they cannot afford one, those entangled in civil matters have no such

benefit.

Administer Justice means justice for all.

Most poor individuals haven’t always been that way. Circumstances out of their

control, including loss of employment, reduced work hours, spousal abandonment,

or debilitating illness or injury, can cause a season of poverty until they are able to

recover and get back on their feet.

Administer Justice shows mercy and compassion.

Almost 75% of low-income individuals don’t know there are legal aid services

available, so they try to fend for themselves, often transforming a small legal issue

into an overwhelming crisis.

Administer Justice empowers the powerless.

Self-sufficiency is important to everyone, Including those who are in dire financial

circumstances. Clients can attend seminars on money management and obtain

financial coaching or tax counseling.

Administer Justice gives hope to the hopeless.

1750 Grandstand Place, Suite 15 Elgin, IL 60123 (847)844.1100

www.administerjustice.org Annual

Report

2 0 0 9

A message from

Bruce Strom,

Executive Director

As each succeeding month in 2009 saw increased

foreclosures and record unemployment, God was

about something bigger. In the midst of worry He

called to the weary and provided a place of rest.

That place is Administer Justice’s wonderful new

facility in Elgin at 1750 Grandstand Place. In the

midst of increased fraud, oppression and injustice,

He made a way for people to find justice as more

volunteers and other good neighbors saw the chance to make a

difference and help someone in need.

Help for the family that needs to know their rights and options in

the face of foreclosure; the elderly victim of fraud needing an

advocate; the worker stunned first by a pink slip and then by her

employer’s challenge when she filed for unemployment benefits; the

abandoned parent needing support; the father wanting visitation;

the child in need of a stable environment through a guardianship;

the spouse victimized once by divorce and then by a fraudulent joint

tax return filed without her knowledge. These are just some of the

situations facing the more than 4,400 individuals we helped find

hope and justice for last year.

“I want to thank you for all you have done for me. I

thank God you are there to help people… people like me

cannot afford to pay an attorney. You and your associ-

ates make the world a better place to live in. You gave

me hope when all I had was fear and dread. Thank you

with all my heart.” Janet, client.

In a world full of fear, there is a beacon of hope because of your

support. Our giving continued to grow 32% last year. God loves

justice and he has a plan for the widow, the fatherless, the alien and

the poor. In 2010. we enter our tenth year of service. We will open a

new branch in DuPage County, host our largest celebration banquet,

begin free Justice for All tours so you can share the exciting news of

how we are transforming lives in the midst of difficult challenges.

The pages of this report will show how exciting the past has been, but

let me assure you that the best is yet to come. If you’re not involved,

now is the time to come to one of our tours and learn how you can join

us in this amazing justice adventure.

Henry Repay Andrew Ricci Scott Richmond Joyceann Roeder Susan Rogaliner Kathleen Rosa Richard Rosenthal Michael Ryan Shirley Sadjadi David Schlueter Ben Schwarz Roman Seckel David Semmelman Lidia Serrano Sue Shivers Greg Slovacek Andrew Smith Jeremy Spitzer John Steffen Don Stinespring, Jr. Brad Swearingen Jim Tabor John Talley

Patricia Tauchert Kevin Thomas Colleen Thomas Angela Thuma Lora Timmons Jonathan Tofilon Steve Tousey Melissa Wagner Thomas Walsh Doug Warlick Rory Weiler Douglas Werman Dayna Wheatley Thomas Witek Karen Zajicek

Page 3

Pages 4-5 Volunteers

Pages 6-7 Stepping out in faith,

Stepping up

to the challenge

Pages 8-9 Donors

Pages 10-11 Our new address,

Our future goals

Pages 12-13 Community Outreach:

The Year in Pictures

Pages 14-15 Help for the helpless:

Client stories

Pages 16-17

Financial Report

Our Staff & Board

Pages 18-19

Hope for the hopeless:

Client stories

About the lady in our logo …

In 1509, Raphael was commissioned by Pope

Julius II to paint the Stanza della Segnatura,

a suite of rooms likely used as the Pope’s

office and library. He painted four images

on the ceiling, representing poetry, philosophy,

theology, and the lady we chose to use in our

logo: Justice.

The artist robed his image of justice in purple

robes of royalty and provided her with a

crown. The two-winged angels each carry a

stone tablet of the law (IVS). The other

symbols are more familiar ones: balanced

scales symbolizing that justice should be

available to all, and the sword representing

the power and authority of justice.

On the ceiling where she is painted, Raphael

surrounded her by a painting of the Fall of

man, symbolizing the effect of sin in making

perfect justice impossible. On the other

side, he painted Solomon, representing the

need for wisdom in executing justice.

We believe that as a nation under God we

must pursue liberty and justice for all. It is

not to be merely a message carved into the

façade of our Supreme Court building.

Rather we believe it is an ideal to be actively

pursued through mercy and compassion for

those in need. We believe our logo represents

this ideal well.

It is our prayer that we may one day fully be

one nation, under God, indivisible with liberty

and justice for all.

Page 4

Volunteer Attorneys Amanda Adams Deanna Aguinaga Sheila Aiken Michele Aiken David Akemann David Allen Brent Amato Gail Anstett-Patrick Michael Avramovich Dan Babarik Melissa Barbosa- Guzman Jesse Barrientes Randy Baudin LeRoy Bianchi Mark Brent Steve Bretsen Donald Brewer Robert Britz Pamela Brunkalla Shazia Bux Sandi Byrd Peter Carroll

Christopher Carroll Al Catella Cathy Cavins Bryan Chapman Michael Chapski John Chapski Catherine Churm Dave Clark Jane Craddock-Ryan Larry Crisanti Jay Dahl Mike Danforth Laura Davis Vern Davitt Frederick De Pasquale Kathleen DiCola Melinda Diehl David Do Peter Donat Matthew Downs Michael Doyen Kevin Drendel George Faber Sean Fergus Christine Field Aileen Flanagan-Hadfield

Anne Fung William Gasa Jim Geocaris Bill Glisson Tricia Goostree Steve Greeley P.J. Gubbins Scott Hadala Paul Haney Justin Hansen Richard Hanus Laura Haske Tiffany Henderson Caroline Hernandez Rachel Hess Linda Hill-Kuntzelman

Nathan Hinch Judy Hogan Andrew Horvat Meredith Hudgens Cathy Hurlbut Michae Huseman Mohammed Iqbal Meg Jackson Carolyn Jansons Randy Johnson Agnes Jury Kerin Kelly Patrick Kinnally

James Kiss Brian Krause Stephen Krentz Paul Krentz Judy Kullenberg Danielle Le Roy Brian Leach Judith Leesley Phillip Lengle Danielle LeRoy

Benjamin Lin Susan Lonergan Joseph Lovelace Lawrence Manassa Margarita Marchan- Mankus Michelle Masoncup Markus May Michael Mayo Kevin McCarty Jeff McCutchan Karen Mensching Christopher J. Miller Tina Miller Emi Morales Roger Mueller Cecilia Najera Burke Nihill Courtney Nogar Michael Noland Roger Norden John Noverini Lisa Nyuli

Daniel O'Brien Daniel O'Connell Sharon O'Hara Danelle Oilschlager Jeff Olson Leah Oosterhouse Sandra Parga Bill Parkhurst Carolyn Pearson Mathew Perrone Susan Pesch James Prescott Warren Prescott Michael Purves Catherine Reif Renee Rempert

Henry Repay Andrew Ricci Scott Richmond Joyceann Roeder Susan Rogaliner Kathleen Rosa Richard Rosenthal Michael Ryan Shirley Sadjadi David Schlueter Ben Schwarz Roman Seckel David Semmelman Lidia Serrano Sue Shivers Greg Slovacek Andrew Smith Jeremy Spitzer John Steffen Don Stinespring, Jr. Brad Swearingen Jim Tabor John Talley

Patricia Tauchert Kevin Thomas Colleen Thomas Angela Thuma Lora Timmons Jonathan Tofilon Steve Tousey Melissa Wagner Thomas Walsh Doug Warlick Rory Weiler Douglas Werman Dayna Wheatley Thomas Witek Karen Zajicek

Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead

the case of the widow. Isaiah 1:17

Lucia Agurto David Akemann Cindy Angarola

Jose Ares Karl & Lori Asen

Kathy Bacon Alexander Baker John & Gail Blair Kenneth Breslow Vern Brubaker

Ron & Josh Buskey Katrina Campbell

Elida Cano Rachelle Caruso

Samantha Catavu Alice Cha

Christy Chess Katelyn Cole Juana Correa

Warren Cotton Jason & Kim Cruz

Steve & Beatriz Czeropski Bob & Georgeann Dadabo

Jessica Denardo Larry & Jenn Denna

Valbona Doci Bill & Ginger Duzet Tom & Beth Eifert

Mary Elms William & Linda Emanuel

Charles & Susan Emmerich Elsie Escobar Rena Felske Caitlyn Field Marilyn Foley Marie Fosco

Mary and Red Frank Edwin Gerena

Vernon & Elaine Gustafson Dan Hall

Daniel & Juli Hammershoy Laura Haske

Robert, Peggy, Peter & Thomas Hatch

Volunteers

Page 5

Al Miller Ben and Souri Mostowfi

George Newitt Elizabeth Neuman

Maria Petersen Katie Pluymert Chris Potoki Jewel Price

Dan Quarfoot Leonor Ramos

Dan Reed Catherine Reif

Dennis & Penny Rens Corey Richter

Beth Ridderhoff George Rokusek

Eva Salazar Arcelia Sanchez

Gary & Mendy Sears Lu Simpson

Paul Snowwhite Migut Stacy

Brent & Pam Strom

Brian & Deb Strom Helen, Joseph & Daniel

Strom Terrance Swanson Jerilyn Szalonek

Phil, Karen & Jonathan Thacher

Anna Thomas Lora Timmons Lisa Tzystuck

Marsha Vaughn Virginia Vagt Bill Wacker

Dulcy Walbridge Glen Wartenberg

Mary Wolf Walt & Deb Wolf

Linda Yates Chris, Thelma, Dontrell

& Richard Young Rita Zagalak Marj Zielke

'I tell you the truth, whatever you did for

one of the least of these brothers of mine,

you did for me.'

Matthew 25:40

Kim Havens Clarence & Brenda Hayward

Brian Heinrich Paul and Karen Hippchen Thomas & Christine Hri-

nowich Scott, Emma

& Rachelle Jacobs Ron & Linda Jaeger

Janick Family Belinda Joaquin Diana Johnson Gunderson Kim

Jay & Kathy Kiran Tom & Polly Lamkin

Mary Lampman Joseph & Kim Landfair

Bertha Lee Keith and Mary Lee

Rick & Judith Leesley Richard, Beth & Holly Leh-

mukhl Marc & Patricia Levinson

Karen Lewis Frank & Anna Limitone Del & Rose Linderman

Olivia Lipe Art & Bonnie Ludwig Roy & Carol Lukowski

Amy MacConnell Simon Mangiurea

Andrew & Cheryl Manno Ismael Jazmine Martinez

David Marusarz Marin McInnes

Scott McNamara Carlos Mendez

Page 6

Th

is i

s w

ha

t th

e L

OR

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lmig

hty

sa

ys:

―A

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inis

ter

tru

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ust

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;

sh

ow

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an

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om

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er.

‖

Ze

ch

ari

ah

7:9

Year Income People Helped

Volun-teers

2000 $2,000 23 8

2001 $13,000 39 8

2002 $20,000 64 17

2003 $70,000 90 80

2004 $115,000 307 135

2005 $145,000 602 166

2006 $186,000 1595 212

2007 $349,000 2674 254

2008 $715,000 3631 360

2009 $755,432 4433 416

$0

$100,000

$200,000

$300,000

$400,000

$500,000

$600,000

$700,000

$800,000

Income

Stepping out in faith

In 1998, Attorney Bruce Strom was living the

American Dream. Strong in faith and rich in blessings,

he was the senior partner in a successful law firm,

had a wonderful wife, Helen, and had learned that

they had twin boys on the way.

Yet in spite of these blessings – or maybe because of

them – he felt an increasing burden for those whose

lives were broken and whose dreams were for such

things as child support payments, fair housing, or

debt relief. Bruce was hearing a call, but couldn’t quite decipher the message.

And then he found the answer he was looking for in a Bible verse that seemed to

have been written just for him: Zechariah 7:9-10: ―This is what the Lord Almighty

says, ‘Administer true justice; show mercy and compassion to one another. Do

not oppress the widow, the fatherless, the alien or the poor. In your hearts do not

think evil of each other.’”

Bruce was being called into an area of legal service that would be guided by

those verses. In 2000, he shared a small office and held weekend legal aid clinics.

By 2002, he realized that it was time to go ―all in‖, closing his law office and

opening a Christian-based legal aid office in 2003. Inspired as he was by

Zechariah 7:9, he named it ―Administer Justice.‖

In 2009, Administer Justice helped over 4,400 people through a combination of

legal consultations, Low Income Tax Clinics, and free community seminars. As

shown in the graphs below, God has moved mightily and the ministry has grown

rapidly in its first decade.

0

500

1000

1500

2000

2500

3000

3500

4000

4500

5000

People Helped

Income

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

450

Volunteers

Volunteers

People Helped

2000

20

00

2000

2001

20

01

2001

2002

20

02

2002

2003

2

003

20

03

2004

2

00

4

2004

2005

20

05

200

5

2006

20

06

2006

2007

20

07

2007

2008

20

08

2008

2009

20

09

2009

Page 7

2009 saw the weakening economy dig deeper into Kane County and throw

more individuals and families into financial crisis. As a result, more than 25% of

the population lived at or below 200% of the federal poverty guideline. This was

7% higher than was reflected in the previous year’s study, and this was reflected

in the increased demand for our services. We have worked hard to meet both

the immediate needs of our clients, and to also provide education and coaching to

help them take control of their lives and build a positive foundation for the future.

One of the most exciting improvements in 2009 was our move into bigger offices in

a location more centralized and with convenient access. Our clients now meet with

their attorneys in professional, comfortable surroundings. We are able to schedule more

individual appointments per day, and can host educational seminars in our conference

room. See page 6 of this Report for a tour of our new Elgin location.

In 2009 our professionals met with over 1,200 individuals and provided educational

resources to over 3,200. The chart below reflects the breakdown by category of

service, and types of cases seen.

Stepping up to the challenge

Preventative Legal Education: this is

a combination of free community seminars

and in-office workshops, covering a wide

range of topics, including a heavy emphasis

in 2009 on ESL Tax Outreach. Our goal is to not only react to our clients’

current issues, but to serve them proactively through education and

coaching. Learning to solve problems — and to prevent them whenever

possible — is a major emphasis of our gospel justice ministry.

Court Cases

Legal/Pro Se Assistance*

Tax Direct Assistance

*Breakdown of Legal/Pro Se Assistance by Type (865 Total Cases):

Consumer/Utility: 159 (18%) Criminal: 60 (7%)

Education/Health: 3 (>1%) Employment: 48 (6%)

Family: 422 (49%) Housing: 125 (15%)

Immigration: 11 (1%) Social Security/Public Benefits: 20 (2%)

Will/Power of Attorney: 17 (2%)

232

865

122

30813,214

2009

Category of Services &

Types of Cases Seen

Page 8

Allen, David J. Allen, Kent & Amy Alpine Chapel Amato, Brent & Sheryl Anderson, Brett Armenta, Jo Ann Asen, Karl & Lori Ashenfelter, John & Liane Axford, Tim & Lori Bagnall, James Balik, Barbara Baudin, Randal A. Berg, Bill & Marilyn Berndt, Judy Besancon, Richard and Vannye Bienert, Bonnie Bigalk, Bradley & Roberta Blair, Dan & Jeanine Blair, John & Gail Bogott, Elan Boles, Susan Brautigam, Faith Brawka, Judith and Joseph Korso Bremer, Brian Brennan, Alfred E. Burden, John & Joan Burnier, Tim and Lorraine Buskey, Ronald & Theresa Bux, Esq., Shazia Cain, Jerry & Linda Carr, Dennis Carroll, Peter Caruso, Rachelle Casement, James Catavu, Samantha Caulfield, John Center for Law & Culture Christensen, Frank & Cristy Christian Legal Society Clancy, William & Catherine Clark, David Clossman, Richard & Gloria Colber, Douglas & Bethany Cork, Joyce Cote, William Cotton, Warren Creature Comfort Camp, Inc Dahl, Rick Didier, James & Joan Doenges, James & Diane Doherty, Raymond & Karen Duzet, Bill & Ginger

Echevarria, Amy EFS Foundation Emmerich, Charles & Susan Evans, Daniel Farley, Joseph Flores, Lisandra Fosco, Marie Fowler, Jeffrey & Lenay Frohardt, Bud & Meriam Garrison, Chris & Raelene Gentile, Anthony & Margaret Geocaris, James & Leah Graf, Ronald & Barbara Greeley, Steve Gunlogson, Michael & Julie Gutierrez, Jose Hadala, Scott Hayward, Clarence & Brenda Helle, Paul & Susan Hernandez, Sarah Hrinowich, Thomas & Christine IHC Group Foundation Jackonien, Walt Jacobs, Scott & Teri Joaquin, Belinda Jodrey, James & Brenda Johnson, Gary & Rita Johnson, Westra, Broecker, Whittaker & Newitt Kane County Bar Foundation, Inc. Kiran, Jay & Kathy Kostelny, Hon. Marmarie Lamkin, Tom & Polly Laner, Muchin, Dombrow, Becker, Levin & Tomin Lao-American Org. of Elgin, Inc. Larson, Richard & Irma Law Elderlaw, LLP Lee, Keith and Mary Leesley, Judith Limitone, Frank & Anna Lopez, Pablo & Edith Loran, Joseph Lundstrom Insurance-donor Mangiurea, Simon Mauck & Baker Mazur, Lynn Mazzeri, Mary McBurney, Brent McCutchan, Jeff & Teresa McDunn, Susan McMaster-Carr Supply Co. Merrill Lynch & Co. Foundation, Inc.

DONORS

Page 9

Thacher, Phil and Karen Thurow, Bob & Patricia Thurston, Grace Timmons, Lora Tofilon, James Tousey, Stephen Traverso, John & Carmella Urbansky, David & Cynthia Vagt, Virginia Van Noord, Jack & Julie VanderPloeg, Mike & Mary Vaughn, Marsha Voorn, John C. Wagner, Esq., Melissa Walt, Linda Wamsley, James & Kathie Windsor Construction, LLC Wolf, Mary Worth, Gerald & Elaine Youssi, Youssi & Bina, LTD Zastrow, Todd Zeimet, Georgia

DONORS

Good will come to him

who is generous and lends freely,

who conducts his affairs with

justice.

Psalm 112:5

Supporting Churches Advent Christian Church Bethany Lutheran Church Blue Island Church of Christ Body of Christ Church Calvary Chapel Calvary Chapel OHare Central Bible Church Centro Cristiano Jehova Jireh Christ Community Church Christ Covenant Church of Chicago Christian Congregation Church of Oswego Christian Fellowship of Crystal Lake Dove Uganda Children's Fund El Verbo De Dios (Word of God) Elgin Evangelical Free Church Eternal Covenant Church Evangelical Covenant Church of Batavia Evangelical Covenant Church of \ Elgin First Baptist Church of Elgin First Baptist Church of Niles First Baptist Church of Princeton Fox Valley Evangelical Free Church Grace Bible Church Grace Evangelical Church Grace Missionary Church Harvest Bible Chapel - Rolling Meadows Hosanna Lutheran Church Iglesia De Dios Torre Fuerte Iglesia Rebano Joy River Baptist Church Kingdom Life House of Prayer La Iglesia Evangelica Elohim Life Church Lutheran Church of the Ascension New Generation New Hope Christian Fellowship Our Redeemer Free Methodist Church Refiner's Fire Ministries St. Stephen Lutheran Church Sycamore Victory Church Tanner Trails Community Church Village Bible Church Volume Ministries Wauconda Evangelical Free Church The Well of Living Waters Willow Creek Willow Lake Community Church

Mescher, George & Arlene Miller, Elizabeth Miller, Tina Mosher & Associates Myhrman, Rolf & Barbara Natalino, Jared & Megan Newitt, George Ng, Frederick and Cristina Niemuth, Bart & Linda Noller, Suzanne Noverini, John & Saray Rodriguez Olatunji, Kenny & Christine Parkhurst, William & Julia Peltz, Tim & Laurie Pluymert, James Poland, Christian Rago, Daniel & Lisa Reed, Daniel and Audrey Repay, Henry & Maria Luba Richards, Scott & Maureen Roach, George & Lea Anne Robb, John & Peggy Robinson, Pluymert, Piercey, Macdonald & Amato Ross, Robert & Debra Rotter, Charles Ryan, Michael & Jane Scharf, Greg & Ruth Schlueter, David & Denise Schmidt, Frederick & Phyllis Schultz, David & Karen Schuster, Mark Sears, Gary & Mendy Seattle Christian Foundation Semmelman & Semmelman, Ltd Shaffer, Terry & Nancy Shales, John & Marlene Shales, John & Shelly Shivlock, Sarah Shultz, Craig Simmons, Dale & Jodi Smith, Howard E. Sommerville, Michelle Speers, Robert Spence, Robert & Jan Stauffer, Richard & Winnie Stevenson, William & Victoria Stozek, Ronald & Lynette Strom, Brian & Deb Strom, Marvin & Peggy Suire, Norm & Diane Swanson, Terrance

Page 10

Let justice roll on like a river,

Our New Address

On September 1, 2009, we moved into

new offices in Elgin, enabling our clients

and staff to enjoy more comfortable

surroundings that befitted a professional

legal office. Conveniently located and

close to public transportation, our larger

floor plan enables us to see more clients

each day. We are also able to hold

educational seminars and group events

in our larger conference room.

Dozens of supporters turned out to help us move

out of East Dundee and over to Elgin in a single

day. Others worked tirelessly to put the new

office together, volunteering their services to set

up computer and phone lines, assemble furniture,

unpack files and materials, and have us ready to

open on schedule.

RECEPTION AREA: Comfortable

seating, a fresh cup of coffee, and a

friendly reception greet our clients when

they come through our doors.

PRIVATE OFFICES: Our new

offices enable appointments to take

place privately, facilitating a

professional and dignified relationship

between attorney and client.

SELF-HELP RESOURCES:

A computer is available to clients or

walk-ins to research legal matters;

court documents and other informational

materials are provided.

Spreading the word:

We intend to shatter the myths about suburban poverty by speaking to as

many as will listen. In 2010, we will begin hosting regular informational

“Justice For All” open house events at our office

twice monthly. People interested in learning

more about our ministry and how they might fit

into our organization will join us for a free

breakfast or lunch event where they’ll meet with

staff members, hear about our work, and hear a

moving story from one of our clients. Executive

Director Bruce Strom will continue to speak at

churches and community functions. He will be

the keynote speaker at the Moody Business

Network Distinguished Speakers Series

Luncheon in early 2010.

Deepening our outreach within the community:

Our relocation to Elgin has allowed us to deepen our involvement with more

than one hundred social service providers and eighty churches. Through

strategic partnerships we will continue to work cooperatively with the

community to coordinate resources.

Encouraging self-empowerment:

We will continue to expand our educational programs for clients both within the

community and at our offices. In 2010, we’ll add free weekly foreclosure

workshops that will be hosted by an attorney.

Promoting attorney involvement in the needs of the poor:

By hosting free Continuing Legal Education (CLE)

classes and personalized training in matters pertaining

to pro bono and pro se representation, we will encourage

more attorneys to come along side our low income

clientele. We will continue to reach out to attorneys

who have recently admitted to the bar, providing them

with an opportunity to be mentored and gain experience

with client counseling.

Expanding our staff and volunteer rosters:

With increased client demand comes increased need for people, both on staff and

in voluntary positions. Our goal is to add one staff attorney and 12 volunteer

attorneys each year. By adding the staff position of Volunteer Services Director

in late 2009, we will be more effectively recruiting and placing administrative

and special event volunteers throughout the organiza-

tion.

Amos 5:24

Page 11

righteousness like a never-failing stream!

How We’ll Address the Future

Page 12

God is not unjust. He will not forget how hard you have worked for Him and

April 2009: “The Sweet

Sound of Justice” was a free

concert featuring renowned pianist

Huntley Brown, along with a

silent auction for home-made

desserts and floral arrangements.

Hosted at Hosanna! Lutheran

Church, the event was attended

by over 150 people who listened

to great Christian music, the

stirring testimony of Mr. Brown,

and the story and cause of

Administer Justice.

July 2009: Our annual Fun Fair is held at

Randall Oaks Park in Dundee. This community

outreach provides families with an affordable day

out together, including value-packed lunches off

the grill, skill games, Bingo, inflatable slides and

bouncers, face painting, etc. Volunteers from several

area churches donate their time on a summer Sat-

urday to provide a great day for our guests. We

have the opportunity to connect with people who

are eligible for our services, and also with those

who might find a personal fit with our ministry.

July 14, 2009: The Village of Dundee officially

declares this day to be Audrey Ramos Reed

Day! Administer Justice’s Director of Development

and Tax Education was awarded an official decree

signed by the Mayor - a fitting recognition for her

tireless dedication and service to the community.

Audrey retired in July, 2009.

Page 13

how you have shown your love to Him by caring for others. Hebrews 6:10

October 2009: Administer

Justice hosts its annual

Pastor Appreciation Break-

fast to uplift those who stand

at the crossroads, choosing to

make a difference in a difficult

and broken world.

November 2009: We host

our annual CLE (Continuing

Legal Education) course in the

board room of our new Elgin

office. Nineteen attorneys

attended to learn more about

pro bono representation and

the importance of serving the

poor and broken within our area.

December 2009, Washington DC:

Our Tax Controversy Director

Judy Berndt (left) and ESL Tax

Services Director Kim Spagui

(right) attend the annual conference

for the Low Income Taxpayer

Clinic (LITC). They are pictured to

the right with John O. Colvin.,

Chief Judge of the Tax Court.

Community Outreach Throughout the Year:

Page 14

I know

that

the

LO

RD

sec

ure

s ju

stic

e fo

r th

e poor

and

up

ho

lds

the

cau

se o

f th

e n

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y.

P

salm

14

0:1

2

Tony* adores his nephew Sid*, his sister’s

son. When his sister became homeless and said

she couldn’t care for Sid any longer, Tony took

him in. In spite of the fact that he was living on

a limited income, he scrimped and saved to

provide for the boy and give him a safe and

comfortable environment.

Some time later, Sid’s mother changed her mind

and wanted her son returned. However, her

situation hadn’t changed for the better: she still

didn’t have a permanent residence and was

struggling with substance abuse to both drugs and alcohol. Tony

realized he needed to do whatever it took to make sure Sid didn’t

have to be exposed to such a dangerous situation. He was determined

to do whatever he could to protect the child and look out for his best

interests.

He came to our office and met with Attorney Theresa Buskey to dis-

cuss the case. He needed to understand the process of petitioning for

guardianship, and coaching on how to navigate through the legal

system. Theresa helped him prepare the necessary documents for

court, and told him what to expect and how to ready himself for his

appearance. She also encouraged him, and supported him with

prayer. It’s a story with a happy ending: Tony prevailed and was

appointed the legal guardian of Sid in December 2009. He says it’s

the best Christmas present he ever received.

The clients featured here are representative of

the people who come through our doors every

day. These are stories of people who are

experiencing a season of poverty. They are

often the victims of unforeseen job loss, spousal

abandonment, disability, or fraud. Circumstances

such as these can lead to a crisis that will deplete

their savings, drain any retirement funds they

may have had, and leave them having to make

choices that now pertain to their very survival.

Attorney fees — even for a simple consultation —

will be out of the question. It is our goal to balance

the scales on behalf of those who would be left

without resources if we didn’t come alongside.

Our lawyers personify our mission to empower

the powerless, give hope to the hopeless, and

show mercy and compassion to those in need.

*All client names have been changed.

Fred and Lois* sat across from Attorney Judy Berndt in tears. With a

shaking hand, he gave her an unopened letter from the IRS. He was too afraid to

look at it himself. It wasn’t the first letter he had received, but he decided it was

the last straw.

The storm that hit Fred’s life had been brewing

for some time. He was “downsized” by his

company, and lost both his job and a

substantial portion of the vesting for his

pension. He tried to start his own business.

In fact, he tried his hand at several business

ventures that never really got off the ground.

His self-worth was at rock-bottom, and he

became seriously depressed.

At this stage of life, he thought he would be treating his wife of 40 years to exotic

cruises. Instead, they were sitting in our office facing several thousand dollars in

overdue taxes and fines. Judy assured them there was hope in the midst of these

difficult circumstances and she intervened on their behalf with the IRS. She

helped them get their returns filed, the debt corrected, and had them placed in

“currently not collectible” status while the matters were being resolved.

But the help did not stop there. Judy noticed Fred had was hard of hearing. Lois

explained that they couldn’t afford to get him hearing aids. Judy told them about

a VA program that enables low-income veterans to obtain hearing aids. When

they mentioned they took three buses to get to our office, she told them about a

local church’s car ministry. Knowing how dire their living circumstances had

become, she also provided a list of local food pantries and other social service

agencies. When they walked in the door, they were helpless and hopeless—when

they left, they were empowered and had a plan.

Maybe someday they can take that cruise after all.

“I would like to express my thanks and ap-

preciation to Administer Justice for the

work they do. I found myself instructed,

calmed, and prayed for. I feel more able

to deal with whatever difficult circum-

stances may lie ahead. Thank you for

your service using your gifts to help peo-

ple. May God bless your ministry.” —Note from a client

Page 15

Page 16

Administer Justice takes seriously your trust and investment

in the lives of vulnerable individuals. Your donation offers

hope to thousands of clients who will not lack for quality services

because of their lack of income. With our continued growth

comes the promise of continued transparency in all our financial

transactions. We are registered with GuideStar.org and our

Form 990s are available for online viewing. Our audit is also

available. The board of directors has implemented a detailed

plan to provide checks and balances in the processing of all

financial matters. Your trust is important to us.

In 2009, our cash revenue increased 32% from $237,050 to

$349,930. Our professional in-kind support decreased 15%

from $478,302 to $405,502, due in part to law office downsizing

that resulted in less time available for pro bono work. Total

revenue for 2009 was $755,432 and total expenses were

$675,299.

A summary of 2009 activity follows:

Income +/- 2008

Government Grants $ 43,032 (6%) +44%

Private Foundations $ 14,918 (2%) -61%

Fundraisers $ 15,844 (2%) -41%

Churches $ 38,273 (5%) -19%

Individuals $ 94,163 (12%) +43%

Cy Pres Award* $110,478(15%)

Program Fees $ 30,393 (4%) +188%

Professional In Kind $405,502 (54%) -15%

Total Income: $755,432 +6%

Expense

General Office /Program $ 74,521 (11%) +61%

Occupancy $ 35,126 (5%) +15%

Fundraising $ 2,949 (.5%) -183%

Payroll $145,982 (22%) -4%

Professional Fees $ 3,691 (.5%) +19%

Professional In Kind $405,502 (61%) -18%

Total Expense: $667,771 -5%

*The Cy Pres award is a court-ordered award to a charitable

organization of the excess, unallocated, unclaimed or undeliverable

funds in a class-action judgment or settlement, or actions in

which funds set aside for reimbursement cannot be distributed

due to manageability concerns.

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Page 17

Clockwise from bottom left: Bruce Strom, Teri Jacobs, Theresa Buskey, Bill Duzet, Marvin Strom, Peggy Strom, Roger Simmons,

Judy Berndt, Leah Geocaris, Helen Strom

Paid Staff

Atty. Bruce D. Strom

Executive Director

Audrey Ramos Reed

Director of Development and Tax Education

Atty. Judy Berndt

Tax Controversy Director

Atty. Theresa Buskey

Legal Services Director

Teri Jacobs

Program Services Coordinator

Leah Geocaris

Educational Outreach, Promotions Coordinator

Roger and Jannette Simmons

Client & Volunteer Services Coordinators

Kimberly Spagui

ESL Tax Services Director

Jo Ann Armenta

Volunteer Services Director

Kathy Kiran

Communications Coordinator

Office Volunteers

Christine Field - Attorney

Scott Hadala - Attorney

Judith Leesley - Attorney

Cathy Reif—Attorney

Melissa Wagner - Attorney

Daniel Hammershoy - Paralegal

Karen Hippchen - Bookkeeper

Peggy Strom - Volunteer Services Director

William Duzet - Financial Services Director

Marvin Strom - Church Services Director

Karen Hippchen - Bookkeeper

Lori Asen - Accounts Manager

Samantha Catavu—Office

Dan Quarfoot - Office

Mary Elms - Office

George Rokusek - Office

Paul Snowwhite - Office

Virginia Vagt - Office

Kathy Kiran - Office

Frank Limitone -Chaplain

Helen Strom - Interpreter

John Blair - Data Management

Clockwise: Kimberly Spagui;

Jo Ann Armenta;

Kathy Kiran

2009 Executive

Board

Clockwise from bottom left: Executive Director Bruce Strom, Saray Rodriguez, Jim Pluymert,

Bill Stevenson, Jeff Fowler, Jim Jodrey,

Amy Echevarria, Al Lee, and Executive Board Chairperson Karen Schultz

Page 18

For I know the plans I have for you, d e c l a r e s t h e L O R D , p l a n s t o

Gloria’s* husband has left her and is seeking a

divorce. She had no advance warning of his abandonment.

Her husband had the financial means to hire an attorney to

represent his interests. Gloria, on the other hand, had been

a homemaker all of her life, and had no other source of income

other than what her husband had provided.

Without the means to obtain an attorney, she went to court

on her own, sitting alone at the defendant’s table and

clearly out of her depth. English is her second language,

and as such she found the proceedings confusing and

intimidating. She had no idea how to understand the complicated

legal language of the paperwork.

Her husband’s attorney was pressuring her to sign a Marital Settlement

Agreement, refusing to explain it to her in detail, but assuring her that it was

the “normal” thing to do. Displeased with this attempt to intimidate and take

advantage of Gloria, the judge halted the proceedings and said: Enough! The

judge gave her our contact information, and told her to come see us before he

heard the case. He knew that Gloria would receive compassion at Administer

Justice, along with quality legal assistance.

We were able to provide Gloria with an attorney who listened to her story, who

helped her understand the terms of the proposed Marital Settlement

Agreement, and who made sure this frightened and overwhelmed client’s

rights were protected. As the case proceeds, Gloria sleeps better at night

knowing there are people on her side who care about her. She knows she can

bring any paperwork to us and we’ll make sure her interests are protected.

“I would like for people to know

that thanks to Administer Justice,

they are not alone. Don’t be

afraid: there are people to help

and care for you. You’re not

alone: there’s light up ahead!

Page 19

prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

Dawn* was drowning in traffic violation fines. Barely out of her teens,

she was getting caught in a downward spiral of consequences. She had

accrued fines of over $1000. Her drivers license had been suspended.

Things had gotten so bad, that she was now at risk of felony charges if she

didn’t do something fast.

Compound all of that with the loss of employment, and things were getting

grimmer by the day. How could she get another job if she couldn’t drive to

interviews? How could she get her license back if she didn’t pay her fines?

How could she pay her fines if she didn’t have a job? Round and round went

the spiral, and Dawn was desperate.

She came to Administer Justice at the advice her mother’s friend who

attended a church that supported our ministry. Attorney Judith Leesley met

with Dawn and saw immediately that there was no time to waste if there

was going to be a chance of pulling Dawn back from the brink. Judith took

her case pro bono, and met Dawn at the courthouse where she helped obtain

a continuance because Dawn believed she had a new job lined up. When that

job offer fell through, Ms. Leesley realized it was time to intercede with the

State’s Attorney.

As a result of those negotiations, Dawn had

three of her tickets dismissed providing that

she keep her driving record clean for one year.

This also enabled her to get her license back

(by showing a good faith effort to pay off her

fines), and therefore the ability to find a job.

By coming to us, Dawn was able to reverse the

snowball effect that was propelling her toward

a possible felony conviction and significant

employment problems. *All client names have been changed.

“I was at the Red Sea with

the army at my back! You

were my provision when

there was no other way out

for me.”