Kristine CustudioMessage from the President
The San Diego Paralegal Association (SDPA) is a non-profit organization established for the purpose of promoting the paralegal profession through awareness, education and public service. Most notably, SDPA achieves these goals by working with state and national affiliates to address the challenges facing the paralegal profession; offering Continuing Legal Education programs; and advocating involvement in pro bono clinics, community outreach programs, and local government. SDPA aims to inspire the best in individuals and create leadership opportunities for those willing to take their careers to the next level.SDPA encourages all paralegals to take an active role in their profession by committing to self-improvement and fostering collegiality among their peers.
When reflecting on passion, purpose, and success, I am always brought back to one of my favorite quotes from the American writer, Ralph Waldo Emerson: “To laugh often and much; to win the respect of intelligent people and the affection of children; to earn the appreciation of honest critics and to endure the betrayal of false friends; to appreciate beauty; to find the best in others; to leave the world a bit better whether by a healthy child, a garden patch or a redeemed social condition; to know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded.”
The San Diego Paralegal Association will host its annual Open House event on May 19, 2011, as an inaugural bowling benefit fundraiser for our charity of choice, the Monarch School, as well as our educational scholarship program. We hope that you will join us for a fun evening. As many of you know, SDPA hosted a Friday Night Dinner for the Monarch School students and their families on April 29, 2011. Our volunteers served food, painted faces, and shared precious moments with some amazing children and their families.
SDPA with Broadway San Diego is also donating to the Monarch School a portion of the proceeds from online tickets sales for the production, Mamma Mia! Be sure to purchase your tickets for a fun night at the theatre and help our charity of choice. Check out the Mamma Mia! flyer for details to on how to purchase tickets online.
The monies we have raised throughout the year will be presented to the Monarch School and two $500 scholarships will be awarded during our June Paralegal Day luncheon on June 22, 2011. Celebrate good times with us at the Bayview Room in Marina Village and hear the inspiring story of our keynote speaker, San Diego District Attorney, Bonnie Dumanis. This is a free event for members and $10 for non-members.
I will leave you with this challenge, consider how you share your time, talent and treasure. Lend a hand as we collectively pay it forward in bettering our profession, ourselves and, most importantly, each other. Get involved with your SDPA community. This is your SDPA!
With warm regards,
Kristine M. Custodio, ACP
2011 President-Elect, San Diego Paralegal Association