Idaho Legal Aid Services Announces New Executive Director 

Boise, ID – Idaho Legal Aid Services (ILAS), a statewide nonprofit law firm committed to serving the civil legal needs of low-income Idahoans, is pleased to announce the appointment of Sunrise Ayers as its new Executive Director. With nearly two decades of dedicated service at ILAS, Sunrise has played a pivotal role in enhancing access to justice for Idaho’s low-income communities. 

Her selection by the ILAS Board of Directors follows a process that began earlier this year, after Jim Cook announced his decision to step down after 25 years at ILAS, 11 as Executive Director. Jim will continue to serve as Executive Director until November 15. 

Sunrise’s journey with ILAS began in 2006 when she joined as a staff attorney, driven by her passion for public service and commitment to supporting those in need. Over the years, she has held several key leadership roles, including Managing Attorney of the Boise Office and Deputy Director, a role she has held since 2018. During her tenure, she has overseen critical programs that have profoundly improved ILAS’s ability to serve its low-income client community. 

"We are thrilled to have Sunrise step into the role of Executive Director,” said Jim Cook. “Her vision, dedication, and profound understanding of our mission make her the ideal leader to guide ILAS forward.” 

"As Executive Director, I plan to continue to be a strenuous advocate for access to justice for all Idahoans, and am honored to have this opportunity to serve our client communities. ILAS is an incredible organization, supported by a talented and compassionate staff and a dedicated Board, all of whom work tirelessly to improve the lives of low-income Idahoans. I believe deeply in our mission and the impact of our work and I can’t wait to see what we can accomplish in the years ahead.” 

Sunrise is an Idahoan who graduated from Kuna High School, earned her Bachelor’s degree, magna cum laude, from the College of Idaho and her Juris Doctorate, cum laude, from Northwestern School of Law of Lewis and Clark College. She resides in the Treasure Valley with her husband and two sons. 

For more information or to schedule an interview with Sunrise Ayers, please contact Evan Curry, Director of Development, at (208) 807-2214 or evancurry@idaholegalaid.org. 

About Idaho Legal Aid Services: 
ILAS’s mission is to provide equal access to justice for low-income people through quality advocacy and education. Housing cases are the largest by volume. Serving survivors of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault and stalking consume the biggest share of resources. Public entitlements, including helping seniors to obtain Medicaid for long term care is another sizable practice area. ILAS has units focused on serving Native Americans and agricultural workers as well as an impact practice focused on federal litigation.