Greetings,

Are you intentional about giving thanks? Do you give thanks for your family and friends? Do you give thanks for your employers and co-workers? Do you give thanks for your health? Do you give thanks for the veterans who have served our country and those who are currently serving? Do you give thanks for the right to vote? Do you give thanks for the attorneys who provide legal services for those in need? In other words, do you give thanks for the many blessings in your life?

November brings about that time of year when the weather becomes more moderate and the leaves on the trees “show off” their majestic colors. It is a beautiful time of the year, and an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with football games, hiking, camping, and an array of activities. It also brings about that time of year to be intentional about giving thanks for the right to vote, our veterans, and our national Thanksgiving holiday.

Being thankful is a great way to focus on what you have, not what you lack. Intentionally serving others, giving generously, and being thankful each day is a life-changing choice which will not only enrich the lives of others but your own.

At ALF we have much to be thankful for. We are grateful for the IOLTA funds we receive from the Alabama Supreme Court which enable us to make grants to the various Volunteer Lawyers programs throughout the state as well as to our other grantees. We are thankful for the donations we receive to fund our various scholarship programs such as Kids Chance, Janie Shores, and ROBE.

I am personally thankful for the ALF Executive Director and the dedicated staff for their tireless efforts in the day-to-day operation of ALF. I am also thankful for the Board of Trustees who donate their time and expertise in developing and formulating best practices and procedures for a strong and healthy foundation. Both groups are instrumental in the success of ALF.

I encourage you this Thanksgiving season, and after November has passed, to become intentional about giving thanks. The rewards will be immeasurable.

“I cannot but think we have much to be thankful for, and more still to hope for in the future.” Winston Churchill

Happy Thanksgiving!

Leslie R. Barineau

President, Alabama Law Foundation