To all APBCo members:
We have learned, through a contact at the DOJ Access to Justice Commission, that the Office of Public Engagement is seeking nominations for lawyers doing noteworthy volunteer work, to be considered for a “Champions of Change” award. That office has honored people involved in various categories of volunteer work, and this time is focusing on attorneys. More information about the Champions of Change generally can be found here: http://www.whitehouse.gov/champions.
APBCo (along with other groups) has been asked to nominate an attorney from the private bar who has made a significant contribution in pro bono work, due to our discussions earlier this year with folks from DOJ and from the Office of the Vice President. APBCo leadership has decided to canvass the membership at large seeking nominations. You may nominate yourselves, each other, or attorneys from your firm or another firm. Nominations may be only for individual lawyers, and should be based on pro bono client work (as opposed to firm program administrative work). The work can be one great case or a series of a particular type of matters, obviously a case resulting from or in a great back story would be terrific as it would be more likely to catch their attention.
This is obviously an excellent opportunity for APBCo and our members to garner some significant public attention, and bring a national focus to pro bono. If any APBCo member were to be given the honor, it would be a terrific benefit to all of us.
Unfortunately, we have been given only a week from today to submit a nominee from APBCo. So, we have to ask you very busy people to please make a submission by the close of business on Thursday, August 25 (sooner if possible), with the name of the nominee, the firm he or she works for, and the reason that you think that lawyer should be honored (such as a description of the work that supports the nomination). APBCo leadership and board members will review the nominations for critical mass in support of one member, and will use their discretion in choosing the nominee who appears most likely to be able to garner the award.
We appreciate in advance your willingness to make the time to submit a nominee for the Champions of Change award. Nominations may be sent to me at [email protected], or to any other APBCo board member.