Contact: Communications Department, communications@lawfoundation.org 

LAW FOUNDATION OF SILICON VALLEY LAUNCHES NONPROFIT PROTECTION PROJECT TO SAFEGUARD NONPROFITS FROM LEGAL RISKS 

SAN JOSÉ, CA – The Law Foundation of Silicon Valley, the South Bay’s largest legal nonprofit, announces today the public launch of its Nonprofit Protection Project. This is a first-of-its-kind regional initiative providing free legal support to nonprofits navigating emerging legal challenges. From shifting federal priorities to contract disruptions, nonprofits are facing unprecedented legal and governance challenges that threaten their ability to serve communities. 

Through this new project, launched in partnership with the Silicon Valley Council of Nonprofits (SVCN) and Give Light Consulting, the Law Foundation will offer one-on-one pro bono legal consultations and limited representation, along with trainings and curated resources to bolster nonprofit capacity and resilience. Eligibility is generally open to nonprofits with less than $10 million in annual support that are located in or serve Santa Clara County. Selected organizations may receive up to 10 hours of pro bono legal assistance focused on governance and compliance challenges resulting from recent executive orders, changes in federal policies and priorities, and related legal matters. 

“Nonprofits face a shifting legal terrain, from executive orders to federal policy changes, that threatens their ability to serve our community,” said Alison Brunner, Executive Director at the Law Foundation of Silicon Valley. “The Nonprofit Protection Project ensures these organizations can continue their vital work without unnecessary legal barriers.” 

The project provides nonprofits with: 

  • Up to 10 hours of pro bono legal consultation per nonprofit. 

  • In-depth trainings on legal and governance topics. 

  • Access to vetted resources addressing governance, audits, executive orders, investigations, and contract disruptions. 

"Silicon Valley Council of Nonprofits has heard from countless nonprofits about the urgent legal needs created by federal actions. Nonprofit leaders are looking for support to ensure their organizations can continue critical operations that serve our communities,” shares Executive Director Kyra Kazantzis. “We are proud to partner with the Law Foundation of Silicon Valley on this initiative, which fills a vital gap by providing accessible, reliable, pro bono legal support for Santa Clara County nonprofits.” 

This project was made possible with generous support from Sobrato Philanthropies and the Silicon Valley Community Foundation. 

Nonprofits can apply for legal support or access online resources at lawfoundation.org/nonprofitprotectionproject. 

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About the Law Foundation of Silicon Valley 
The Law Foundation of Silicon Valley is a nonprofit organization based in San Jose, dedicated to advancing the rights of under-represented individuals and families in our diverse community through legal services, strategic advocacy, and educational outreach. Since 1974, we have been committed to promoting justice and equity, addressing systemic issues, and empowering those in need through direct legal support. To get services, join us, donate, or learn more, visit lawfoundation.org

Protecting our Neighbors 

We believe that everyone deserves equity, dignity, and fairness. As federal immigration enforcement becomes more aggressive and punitive, our commitment to defending the rights of under-represented individuals and families remains steadfast. 

Even though enforcement may look different here than in Los Angeles or elsewhere, these federal actions are having the same effects locally. Our neighbors feel fear, families are being separated, and the core values of justice and due process are being undermined. 

In response, we are actively working to support our community by: 

  • Helping families prepare for possible detention or deportation, including care plans for children 

  • Providing legal representation to unaccompanied minors in immigration cases 

  • Educating low-income tenants about their housing rights to prevent exploitation based on immigration status 

  • Advising individuals on eligibility for State and Federal benefits, like healthcare and food assistance, amid changing policy and increasing fear to engage with government programs 

  • Partnering with communities to raise their voices and influence decisions 

Please join us as we work to support our community during this challenging time. Donate now, arrange corporate/firm support, or join our network of pro bono attorneys

Advocating Against the Increased Criminalization of Homelessness in Silicon Valley

Every day we work to ensure that our neighbors can access safe, stable housing. Yet, the City of San José’s latest budget shifts focus away from long-term solutions, favoring encampment sweeps, fines, and vehicle impoundments over investments in deeply affordable housing and supportive services.

Decades of evidence show that punitive responses do not reduce homelessness; they make it harder for individuals to rebuild their lives. Instead, we must prioritize strategies that are effective, humane, and economically sound: permanent housing, rental assistance, and services that address the root causes of housing instability.

The Law Foundation of Silicon Valley joins our nonprofit partners in urging the cities across our region to prioritize policies grounded in dignity, equity, and proven outcomes. The path forward isn’t punishment, it’s housing.