The Richard Cassidy Special Grant Program
In honor of Richard Cassidy’s lifelong commitment to justice, the Vermont Bar Foundation (VBF) launches this values-driven initiative to support Vermont organizations working to build a more just and equitable future. This is not just a tribute – it is a call to action.
At a time when federal and state funding for justice is uncertain, and communities across Vermont face increasing legal, economic, and social strain, the VBF Board is stepping up with a $100,000 commitment to help strengthen and sustain Vermont’s justice ecosystem.
This program empowers the Foundation to support organizations whose work aligns with VBF’s mission – even if it falls outside the scope of traditional legal representation.
Program Details
Total Available Funding: $100,000
Maximum Request: $5,000 per organization
Funding is awarded at the discretion of the VBF Grants Committee and the Executive Director.
What We Fund
Projects that reflect the Foundation’s mission to ensure that everyone – regardless of income, identity, or circumstance – has access to justice, can exercise their legal rights, and live with dignity in a fair and equitable society.
We welcome applications from:
- Legal service providers, advocacy groups, and justice-focused nonprofits
- Organizations offering wraparound services intersecting with legal needs (e.g., housing, healthcare, domestic violence support, mental health)
- Community-based organizations advancing legal empowerment, systemic change, or public education about rights and justice
Examples of eligible initiatives include:
- Legal rights education in underserved communities
- Reducing barriers to justice for BIPOC, LGBTQ+, immigrant, or rural Vermonters
- Integrated wraparound service models including legal navigation
- Efforts to build public trust in Vermont’s justice system
- Early intervention or legal harm prevention models
Eligibility & Restrictions
- Must be Vermont-based organizations aligned with VBF’s mission and vision
- Organizations that received funding from VBF’s 2025–2026 competitive or non-competitive grant cycles are not eligible
Honoring Richard Cassidy’s Legacy
Richard Cassidy has been a champion of fairness, justice, and public service in Vermont. Naming this grant program in his honor recognizes his enduring contributions to the state’s legal community. The program is grounded in the Foundation’s mission – to advance access to justice for all Vermonters – and reflects the values Richard upheld throughout his distinguished career.
Applications due July 31st.
Contact:
Hannah King
You Can Make a Difference
Your donation will help fund free and low-cost legal aid services in Vermont.
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