Each center will have a webpage created with information about when and where the center meets, and the ability to book an appointment. The Community Advocate role on the team is tasked with regularly promoting the center in the community and networking with other agencies so they know the center exists and can refer clients. The training for this role equips them to spread the word effectively. Many clients will find the center by word-of-mouth from church members or other clients.

The $30 copay invites clients to be part of the process. This is a great opportunity for clients to receive trusted guidance for a small amount of money—and they won’t have to pay again if they return for additional help on the issue. All copays (including scholarships awarded to clients unable to pay) are paid to AJ for the ongoing cost of insurance, database, and other support systems. These copays are the only ongoing fees between the center and AJ.

We strongly encourage a client pay something even if it is only $5. Many studies demonstrate the value assigned to services when there is a mutual contribution toward the service. Some clients may not be able to pay the full copay and we do not want to create any barriers to service. We recommend a benevolence fund be established to scholarship clients in these circumstances. Administer Justice permits local fundraising and will process and receipt all funds solely for the benefit of the local chapter to use.

No. We invite churches who can provide this one-time start-up fee to do so. This allows Administer Justice to direct fundraising toward under-resourced churches and communities. However, there is no expectation on the church to provide these funds.

Space: The church needs an open space to serve as a reception area with a table for check-in and a table for refreshments. Two additional spaces/rooms are needed for the Attorney and the Client Advocate, and a small storage space (for supplies and the retractable banner) is helpful.

Equipment: The secure client database is cloud-based and requires internet access; volunteers are encouraged to use a personal laptop to access it. A printer is useful but not required.

Apart from scholarship money for clients unable to cover the $30 copay, the church is only responsible for paper and supplies once the original launch kit resources are depleted.