Hanson Bridgett Negotiates Deal to Ensure Continued Support for Low-Income Children and Families

April 22, 2024 (San Francisco, CA) – In a significant development that underscores a Bay Area community commitment, Hanson Bridgett partner and former managing partner Andrew Giacomini has helped finalize the sale of the property that houses the Fairfax-San Anselmo Children's Center, which was founded nearly 50 years ago by community leader Ethel Seiderman. The Center  provides high quality early care and education to children, supporting a diverse population of families and community  for under-resourced families and children. The deal concludes a controversial 2-year saga that involved the Ross Valley School District and left the future of the beloved childcare center hanging in the balance. 

"The District had lost confidence in the Children's Center's ability to acquire and operate the facility and was moving to evict them," explained Giacomini, who got involved last year and, working with several community leaders and funders, was able to get the project back on track. 

Giacomini relied on his legal expertise and personal and professional network to develop an idea that a new nonprofit, the Seiderman Legacy Children's Fund – be formed to act as the purchaser of the property, with a long term lease back to the Children's Center.  That structure,  together with increased support from the  Marin Community Foundation, the County of Marin, the Town of Fairfax, and the Town of San Anselmo and other supporters persuaded the Ross Valley School District to move forward with the sale.. 

"It's a big win and a big save," said Giacomini, explaining that the nonprofit acquired the funds necessary to purchase the Center, prevent a potential catastrophic eviction, and is currently raising funds to make additional capital improvements. As President and CEO of the Fund and the chairman of the nonprofit's board, Giacomini promises "the site will forever be used for childcare."

"I was excited and thrilled to see that Andrew stepped up, the deal required his negotiation skills" said partner Allison Schutte, Hanson Bridgett's Government Section Leader. "This is something that embodies our values – a win-win for the community and for children."      

About Hanson Bridgett

Hanson Bridgett LLP is a full-service AmLaw 200 law firm with more than 200 attorneys across California. Creating a diverse workforce by fostering an atmosphere of belonging and intentional support has been a priority at Hanson Bridgett since its founding in 1958. We are dedicated to creating an environment that provides opportunities for people with varied backgrounds, both for attorneys and administrative professionals. As the first law firm recognized as a certified B Corp, we are committed to the communities where our employees live and work and consider it part of our professional obligation to serve justice by encouraging and supporting pro bono and social impact work.

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