Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service (MVLS), the largest provider of pro bono legal services to low-income Marylanders, today announced that Todd Troester, has been hired as the organization’s new director of development.  

Troester, who most recently served as the director of development at Sunflower Bakery, led fundraising operations for the company, driving an 18% revenue increase in his first year and 26% in his second. He also expanded the donor base and played a key role in crafting Sunflower’s diversity, equity and inclusion policy. 

“We’re excited to welcome Todd to MVLS,” said Executive Director Susan Francis. “His exceptional fundraising skills and deep understanding of our mission will help us continue to break down barriers for Maryland families striving for stability. Todd’s commitment to a fair and equitable legal system aligns perfectly with our values and we’re thrilled to have him on board.” 

Troester, working closely with Francis and the MVLS Board of Directors, will spearhead all fundraising efforts, from annual giving and major gifts to special events and grant writing. He’ll also focus on cultivating donor relationships and ensuring effective communication and stewardship. 

“I’m thrilled to join MVLS and its mission to create real change for those in or near poverty,” said Troester. “In my work with homeless and disability services, I’ve seen firsthand how legal challenges can make tough situations even worse. I’m grateful to be part of an organization that’s breaking down these barriers through pro bono representation, community outreach and advocacy.” 

Prior to joining MVLS, Troester graduated from Goucher College with a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies. He is an active volunteer as the president-elect and national philanthropy co-chair for the Association for Fundraising Professionals in Baltimore. Troester can be reached at 443-451-4065 or ttroester@mvlslaw.org. 

About Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service  

Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service (MVLS) is a nonprofit that mobilizes volunteers to provide free civil legal help. The organization serves thousands of people each year who otherwise would be unable to afford representation, focusing on six issues that have a significant impact on peoples’ everyday lives – family law, housing, finance, tax, criminal record relief and estate planning and administration. Through outreach and education, MVLS brings legal services to people who need it most. Through advocacy, MVLS fights for racial and economic justice. To learn more, visit mvlslaw.org.