This year marks the 6th annual National Celebration of Pro Bono, an initiative of the ABA Standing Committee on Pro Bono and Public Service through which lawyers from across the country honor their responsibility to the profession and their communities by volunteering their services to the underserved. This week–long Celebration, held October 19–25, 2014, provides an opportunity for legal organizations to commemorate the important contributions of America's lawyers and to recruit and train the many additional volunteers required to meet the growing demand.
Here are five ways you can join in the National Celebration of Pro Bono:
1. Organize an event for Celebration Week
Bring the celebration to your hometown. Visit the Resources section of the Celebration website for great organizing ideas and tools. Free consultation services are also available to facilitate your planning. Contact the ABA's Center for Pro Bono staff: celebrateprobono@americanbar.org.
2. Find and Participate in a Celebration Event
With over 950 events across the country posted to the Celebration website last year, there is something for everyone. Visit the events page of the Celebration website to find a pro bono event near you.
3. Share your pro bono story
Your own pro bono story has the potential to inspire others to the essential work of providing legal assistance to the underserved. Tell us why you do pro bono by sending us your pro bono statement via e–mail (both video and written stories welcome!)
My name is _________ and I do pro bono because _________.
4. Shop for a good cause
Time to start your Celebration shopping! Order gifts for your volunteers or promotional items to help spread the word about your event directly from the Celebration store.
5. Spread the word
Tell us how you celebrated! Did you have a successful event? Has the Celebration helped you expand and enhance your program? We'd love to share your story – and any pictures you may have of your event – on our website.