PBCBA BAR BULLETINS pbcba_bulletin_january 2019 | Page 24

INNOCENCE P r o j e c t The systemic failures have been identified, but how we respond to these realities defines us as a community and as a nation. Fourteen of the Florida exonerees were freed after DNA testing proved their actual innocence. There are many more in Florida prisons awaiting relief for wrongful convictions. Annually, more than 1,000 requests for inmate assistance are received by IPF, the organization committed to finding and freeing the innocent in Florida prisons, helping exonerees transition back into a changed society, and working to reform the criminal justice system. However, operating entirely from grants and donations, IPF cannot function without community support. I ask for your help in attempting to right these wrongs. Please join me at the Third Annual “Stand Up for Innocence” Fundraiser on Friday, February 8th, at 7:00 p.m. at the Kelsey Theater, 700 Park Avenue, Lake Park. Co-hosted by the Palm Beach County Bar Association, attendees will enjoy an evening of top comedic talent all in the name of a great cause. A number of exonerees will also attend to share their stories about freedom and forgiveness. The money raised from this event goes directly to fund the litigation support for these cases, including critical DNA testing, which alone averages $ 5,000 per case. To pledge a sponsorship, inclusive of tickets to the event, or make a donation to IPF, please go to www. FloridaInnocence.org. To learn about additional sponsorship opportunities or more about the event, please contact Nellie King at 561-833-1084, or via email at [email protected]. (Con’t from pg 18)