Bedford Stuyvesant Community Legal Services Corporation
Bedford Stuyvesant Community Legal Services Corporation (BSCLS) is a left-of-center nonprofit organization that has provided free legal services to low-income residents of central Brooklyn since 1967. Operating as part of the Legal Services NYC family, BSCLS provides free legal services, community education and training, and information and resources for residents. 1
Contents
Background
Founded in 1967, Bedford Stuyvesant Community Legal Services Corporation emerged during a period of significant community development in the Bedford-Stuyvesant neighborhood of Brooklyn. The organization is located in historic Restoration Plaza, which was created that same year through the Bedford-Stuyvesant Restoration Corporation with support from prominent political figures including then-U.S. Senator Robert Kennedy (D-NY), then-New York City Mayor John Lindsay (R, later D), and future Ford Foundation CEO Franklin A. Thomas. 2
Throughout its existence, BSCLS provided legal assistance to economically disadvantaged residents while adapting its services to meet community needs. Its eventual affiliation with Legal Services NYC (LSNYC) expanded the organization’s reach and resources while maintaining its community-based approach to legal services. 1
Leadership
Bedford Stuyvesant Community Legal Services Corporation operates under the leadership of executive director Betty Staton and maintains a staff of attorneys, paralegals, and support personnel. As part of the Legal Services NYC network, BSCLS also maintains connections to the larger organization’s leadership, including former executive director Raun Rasmussen. 3
Activities
Bedford Stuyvesant Community Legal Services Corporation provides free legal services to residents within the Brooklyn zip codes 11213, 11216, 11221, 11225, and 11233. The organization provides representation in landlord-tenant disputes, eviction prevention, and housing court matters. Housing services include assistance with out-of-possession cases and representation in administrative proceedings with housing authorities. 4
BSCLS claims to offer services related to economic stability, including Social Security and disability benefits assistance, unemployment insurance benefits, consumer credit issues, and assistance with Internal Revenue Service matters for low-income taxpayers. The organization provides legal support for homeowners facing mortgage foreclosure, with dedicated intake hours for these services. BSCLS offers immigration legal services by appointment, though specific details about the nature of these services are not elaborated in the available information. 4
Financials
Based on tax filings, Bedford Stuyvesant Community Legal Services Corporation operates with a budget derived from a combination of contributions and program service revenue. In fiscal year 2015, the organization reported approximately $1.37 million in total revenue, of which $729,123 was program service revenue and $643,626 derived from contributions; $494,284 in total assets; and $304,626 in total liabilities. 5
Financial Statistics
Total Assets
Total Revenue
Total Expenses
| Year | Total Assets | Total Revenue | Total Expenses | Filing |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | $409,657 | $976,951 | $759,167 | View |
| 2015 | $494,284 | $1,372,750 | $1,497,012 | View |
| 2014 | $418,836 | $1,292,003 | $1,257,295 | View |
| 2013 | $357,509 | $1,365,278 | $1,117,596 | View |
| 2012 | $193,458 | $1,519,239 | $1,275,476 | View |
Prior year filings: 2011
Revenue Detail
Expenses Detail
Employee Compensation
- Number of Employees: 15
Highest Earning Employees
| Employee | Title | Total Compensation |
|---|---|---|
| Betty E Staton | President | $54,384 |