Legal Services of Greater Miami received more than $255,000 to support its housing-rights work during a ceremony at the Coral Gables Museum that also marked the nonprofit's 60th anniversary.

Legal Services held its annual Passing of the Gavel and Board Installation Ceremony on Sept. 17, The Florida Bar News reported. The event drew board members, volunteers and community leaders to the museum at 285 Aragon Ave.

The $255,358.67 cy pres award came from the resolution of a class action filed on behalf of tenants. Jeff Newsome of Varnell & Warwick directed the funds to the group, and Christopher Brochu presented them on behalf of the case team. Such payments steer leftover class-action settlement money to organizations whose work aligns with a lawsuit's purpose.

New board president and officers sworn in

Stephen F. Rosenthal of Podhurst Orseck was installed as board president, succeeding Karen J. Lapekas of Lapekas Law. Judge Adalberto Jordan of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit swore in the incoming officers and directors.

The executive committee also includes Arya Attari Li of Lockton Companies as first vice president; Debra Tyler of Homeless/Formerly Homeless Forum, who continues as second vice president; Aleida Martinez-Molina of AXS Law Group as treasurer; and Carlos Cardelle, senior counsel at ADP, as secretary.

Volunteer award honors late board leader

Jordi Guso of Berger Singerman received the Julie Azuaje Volunteer Leader Award. It is named for Azuaje, who served as general counsel at Ryder System and spent more than a decade on the nonprofit's board. She was preparing to take the helm in 2021 when she died.

CEO Monica Vigues-Pitan said Guso's contributions went well beyond his presidency. "His leadership in guiding the purchase and renovation of our building has strengthened Legal Services operationally and financially and will benefit the organization for generations to come," she said.

Founded in 1966, Legal Services provides free civil legal help to low-income residents of Miami-Dade and Monroe counties. Guests at the anniversary celebration viewed a commemorative film on its history.

It is also conducting a Legal Needs Assessment survey to help set its case priorities for 2027. Residents can learn more at legalservicesmiami.org.