Farewell and Best Wishes to Valerie Feldman

It is with deep emotions that we announce Valerie Feldman is leaving PILP to become an Administrative Law Judge for the California Department of Social Services. Val has been with PILP for nearly ten years and a part of California’s legal services community for much longer. She has been an incredible force in advancing strong housing policy, enforcing housing element and fair housing laws, and fighting for stronger benefits across the state. In addition to excelling as a litigator, Val has been an exceptional advocate, patient teacher, and compassionate mentor. Her dedication, work ethic, and commitment to the communities we serve have made our organization and community better and stronger.

Reflecting on what Val has accomplished at PILP — mentoring emerging advocates, crafting significant laws, holding multiple cities accountable, and aiding in the development of affordable housing — we are filled with both gratitude and awe. She has litigated cases that have brought relief to thousands of people statewide. She served as our lead attorney in Martinez v. City of Clovis, a case Val argued and won before the 5th District Court of Appeal, representing a significant breakthrough in the fight for fair and equitable housing in California.

In Bojorquez v. Riverside County, Val and co-counsel challenged Riverside County’s policy and practice of denying over 90% of General Assistance applications. Following a settlement, the caseload increased from just over 100 people to over 5,000, enabling people in need to access these critical benefits.

These are just a few of Val’s many accomplishments during her time at PILP. She will be missed. Congratulations on this new chapter, Val! We wish you all the very best in your new role.  

‍

#Farewell #ThankYou #PILP #AdministrativeLawJudge #NewBeginnings #Gratitude #Mentorship #Leadership

‍

‍