2017 CARE Program reaches 68 counties and sets a record in Jefferson County

by Jan Mester

The CARE program was record-setting in 2017.  The outreach throughout Kentucky is growing with attorney volunteers and new participating high schools. Currently, 68 county high schools  are working with the Kentucky Bar Foundation (KBF).  Schools can contact the KBF and request attorney volunteers.  This website also has information about joining in on this credit education initiative.

Jefferson County had an all-time high level of 27 high schools requesting 112 presentations.  The Louisville attorney volunteers stepped up and covered these requests.  The top 10 law firms each “adopted” a high school to deliver the information to their chosen school.  The Legal Aid Society was also involved in meeting with students and talking about the CARE themes.  Approximately 3,000 students over two days were given the CARE booklet and valuable tips for responsible use of credit.   Two Orientations were held prior to the start of the classroom sessions.  Attorneys could choose to attend the Louisville Bar Association meeting or the training offered at the downtown Louisville Judicial Center.  Bankruptcy courts closed on the CARE program dates to enable attorneys to participate.  The CARE Leadership Committee meets during the fall and spring to guide the program.  The Committee is composed of representatives of the largest Louisville law firms, Judges and Jefferson County Public School Administrators.