2008 Honoree Dr. Bill Kuntz, with members of the VLP board and staff

View more photos from the 2008 Anniversary Gala.

Outgoing New York City Bar Association President and past Brooklyn Bar Association President Barry Kamins presented the 2008 Leadership Award to Dr. Kuntz, his long-time friend and colleague.  In a powerful speech (see sidebar), Dr. Kuntz highlighted the importance of supporting civil legal services in the face of dwindling public funds and called upon the assembled crowd to “bridge these turbulent waters”. 

VLP Executive Director Jeannie Costello took to the podium to recognize the invaluable contributions of the volunteer attorneys who make the VLP’s work possible, and shared a compelling snapshot of a “day in the life” at the organization’s busy office. 

The program also included welcoming remarks from VLP Board President James P. Slattery and the presentation of the awards to Mr. Longo and Mr. Slavin by VLP Vice President and Gala Co-Chair Lawrence DiGiovanna.  A representative of Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz’s office made a spirited presentation of proclamations to Dr. Kuntz and the VLP.  Board Member and Gala Co-Chair Terri G. Letica offered the closing remarks.

The Eric Pakula jazz trio set the mood as guests enjoyed fine food and drink and took in stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge and South Street Seaport.  Throughout the evening the attendees perused and bid upon a tantalizing array of items donated to the VLP Silent Auction, including vacation packages to California and Florida; autographed sports and entertainment memorabilia; VIP tickets to sporting events and TV show tapings; and many other special prizes.

The proceeds from the event will support the growth of existing VLP programs and allow the VLP to continue developing new initiatives that address the critical civil legal needs of Brooklyn’s most vulnerable residents.