Amicus Mundi Award: The Lawyer Protecting Unaccompanied Immigrant Minors

Each month, we offer the Amicus Mundi Award to an outstanding lawyer in our community who exemplifies our shared values of service and dedication to building a more just and equitable society. This month, we are proud to celebrate Kim Longo as our Amicus Mundi recipient. As a long-time New Yorker, Kim witnessed some of the adversities impacting immigrants and desired to make a difference. Kim embodies how legal expertise and compassion can create real, lasting change for unaccompanied immigrant youth in her community.

Meet Kim Longo!

From Bankruptcy Law to Immigration Advocacy: After graduating from NYU Law in 2001, Kim spent most of her career focused on bankruptcy law. Kim began volunteering with We The Action in 2018 after seeking opportunities to engage in pro bono work.

  • Kim was inspired by New York, being a melting pot, and wanted to find a cause close to her community. She was introduced to We The Action after her colleague forwarded an opportunity to help a nonprofit, Safe Passage Project, with an immigration matter that deeply resonated with her.

  • Safe Passage Project needed a volunteer for a matter involving an unaccompanied minor seeking legal status in New York. Kim knew this was the opportunity she had been looking for. While immigration law was new terrain for Kim, Safe Passage Project’s team made sure she never felt alone. Kim expressed how Safe Passage made her feel prepared in engaging in this new area of work:

“They assigned me a point person who was just wonderful, and they were incredibly responsive and kind. They provided everything from sample motions to tailored case packets.”

  • For Kim, the work aligned naturally with the litigation-heavy, procedure-oriented nature of her bankruptcy background. But it was the human impact that stayed with her most.

“Helping kids — it’s a no-brainer,” she shared. “I have a 12-year-old, and that definitely drove a lot of my decision-making. I can't imagine what these children are going through.”

The Impact: Kim took on two complex, time-sensitive cases involving Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) where the clients were on the brink of aging out of eligibility.

  • Kim’s work included securing guardianship appointments in family court, obtaining SIJS findings, and navigating federal immigration court filings under intense deadlines.

  • To Kim’s success, both clients now have or are in the process of obtaining SIJS protection, which shields minors from removal and lays the groundwork for lawful permanent residency.

“Even for an American adult who speaks English, it’s an impossible process,” Kim reflected. “It’s particularly impossible for unaccompanied minors, which is what Safe Passage specializes in. That was something that was really important to me.”

  • Kim volunteered for her second immigration case in 2022 in hopes of helping two unaccompanied immigrant minors.

  • Kim secured court-appointed guardians for each, a crucial first step that unlocked the legal pathway to SIJS.

“With any client I’ve had [with Safe Passage Project], my goal has always been to help them integrate into society in a way that allows them to contribute, thrive, and lead a fulfilling life in the U.S.”

  • Safe Passage Project calls Kim “an invaluable partner” whose dedication and compassion “made a profound difference.” In a system where every day matters, her persistence turned deadlines into lifelines.

A Call to Action for Fellow Lawyers: Kim’s journey is a testament to the power of stepping outside your legal comfort zone. She encourages other attorneys regardless of their expertise to take the leap into pro bono work.

  • Kim credits opportunities, like those with the Safe Passage Project, where attorneys are provided a chance to lead a case, stand before a court, and represent someone who truly needs it.

  • “You're not a small cog in a big machine — you are the machine for that client. And the fulfillment is unmatched.”

Kim is candid about the challenge of finding time amid life’s obligations. But she sees pro bono as not just an opportunity, but a responsibility. “If you have knowledge and experience that can help someone, it’s almost an obligation to use it.”

Congratulations, Kim, and thank you for being a beacon of excellence.


Want to get involved like Kim? Find your project on We The Action today!

Amicus Mundi Award: The Lawyer Standing Up for Federal Workers

Each month, we give the Amicus Mundi Award to an outstanding lawyer in our community who exemplifies our shared values of service and dedication to building a more just and equitable society. This month, we are proud to honor Barbara Jost as our Amicus Mundi Award recipient. A powerhouse in administrative and energy law, Barbara embodies what it means to give back through pro bono service.

Meet Barbara Jost!

A dedication to public service: Barbara’s commitment to public service traces back to the start of her own legal career.

  • After graduating from Georgetown Law, Barbara clerked for the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s (FERC) Office of Administrative Law Judges, setting the foundation for her lifelong focus on energy law.

  • After her role within FERC, Barbara spent the duration of her career at Davis, Wright, Tremaine where she represented electric and gas utilities and industrials before FERC and in federal courts, before retiring in 2024.


Volunteering with the Federal Workers Legal Defense Network (FWLDN): Through We The Action, Barbara was able to reconnect with her passion for public service by providing legal consultations to federal workers.

  • Since joining We The Action in 2018, Barbara has contributed to over 11 different projects, with her most recent impact centered on supporting the Federal Workers Legal Defense Network.

  • Through FWLDN, Barbara has provided legal consultations to federal employees who were unjustly terminated and in need of critical legal resources.

  • “I was once a federal worker myself. I have an appreciation of how hard you have to work and how you have to be to dedicate yourself to public service. [...] I feel bad that during [FWLDN] interviews, federal workers sound hurt. I am helping people who are lost.”

  • Barbara emphasized how We The Action continually supports volunteers and encourages any lawyer to take their first call: “[We The Action] has really done a bang-up job recruiting lawyers who really know employment law to help guide us.”


A life committed to justice and advocacy: Barbara credits her former firm, Davis, Wright, Tremaine, for supporting her and other attorneys with pro bono opportunities.

  • “Sometimes these cases are not just meaningful — they’re fun. You’re working for the underdog. And when you win? Wow, that’s great.”

  • Barbara also has a long history supporting voting rights, volunteering for election protection efforts through the Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, and joining her synagogue’s nonpartisan initiatives, such as Get Out The Vote and its Gun Violence Prevention Committee.

  • “Voting rights have always been important to me. Now, supporting federal workers feels like a natural extension of that mission.”

Congratulations, Barbara, on behalf of our community of 54,000+ lawyers!


Get involved: To learn more about how to volunteer with the Federal Workers Legal Defense Network, visit workerslegaldefense.org, or sign up for another project through We The Action today!

Press Coverage of Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network, 4/16/25–5/1/25

The New York Times: Unions Form Pro Bono Legal Network for Federal Workers Targeted by Trump

The nation’s largest federation of unions has put together a pro bono legal network that aims to help federal employees whose jobs have been lost or threatened under the Trump administration. More than 1,000 lawyers in 42 states have completed training in order to offer their services, organizers said. The new pro bono group — Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network, which was formally introduced on Wednesday — was formed by the A.F.L.-C.I.O. along with several other unions and civil rights groups, including We The Action, a network that connects lawyers with nonprofits, Democracy Forward, and the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights.

Reuters: Unions, groups launch pro bono legal network for federal employees

A coalition of labor unions and left-leaning groups on Wednesday announced an initiative aimed at providing free legal advice to federal employees who lose their jobs. The project led by the AFL-CIO and We The Action, which connects volunteer lawyers with nonprofits, will recruit and train thousands of lawyers to consult with federal employees about their legal options. 

The Hill: Unions launch Rise Up legal defense network for federal workers fired under Trump

A network of federal employee unions and legal groups launched a legal defense group to provide counsel to thousands of government workers recently fired by the Trump administration. “Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network will mobilize and train thousands of lawyers to provide pro bono legal guidance to federal workers,” AFGE wrote.

Law360: Coalition Offers Free Legal Aid To Fired Federal Workers

A coalition, including the AFL-CIO and nonprofits like the nonpartisan legal volunteering network We the Action, has teamed up to connect federal employees fired under the Trump Administration with free legal support. "The network has built out resources for lawyers to make it easy for them to participate in this," said Anna Chu, executive director of We the Action.

Bloomberg Law: Punching In: A 1,000-Lawyer Battalion to Help Federal Workers

With mass reductions in force across the federal government on the horizon, the AFL-CIO, federal workers’ unions, and advocacy groups have mobilized a network of more than 1,000 volunteer attorneys to provide legal services to laid off federal employees. The new Federal Workers Legal Defense Network launched last week.

Above The Law: Legal Ethics Roundup: DOJ Attacks Law Firm Mansfield Rule, Conflicts For $1B EO Payments, Lawyer Wellbeing & More: Highlights from Last Week – Top Fifteen Headlines

Unions, Groups Launch Pro Bono Legal Network for Federal Employees. From the Reuters: “A coalition announced an initiative aimed at providing free legal advice to federal employees. The project led by the AFL-CIO and We The Action, which connects volunteer lawyers with nonprofits, will recruit and train thousands of lawyers to consult with federal employees.” 

C-SPAN: Rep. Madeleine Dean Town Hall in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania

[Nikki McKinney] “A brand-new initiative that we just launched yesterday[...] it’s called Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network. We launched this alongside our partners in organized labor. It is a brand-new project, designed to connect federal workers whose rights have been violated by the Trump administration with free legal support.”

Government Executive: Laid-off federal employees can access legal advice under new union-backed network

As federal employees continue to face widespread layoffs, unions and advocacy groups on Wednesday launched a network to provide legal advice to government workers. The goal of the Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network is to recruit attorneys to provide individual guidance to federal employees who fear losing their jobs or have already lost them. 

Grist: Lost your federal job or funding? Tell us how cuts are impacting the environment, health, and safety of your community.

If you’re a fired federal worker and need legal resources, the Federal Workers Legal Defense Network can help connect you with lawyers working pro bono.

Federal News Network: Federal employees impacted by Trump administration can turn to new legal support network

Federal employees who were recently fired from their jobs by the Trump administration have a new place to turn for pro-bono legal advice. The project is led by Democracy Forward, AFL-CIO and We The Action, and has the backing of multiple federal unions and long-time good government organizations, such as the Partnership for Public Service.

Dogwood: Unions, civic groups launch effort to offer fired federal workers free legal support

A coalition of unions and legal groups announced on Wednesday the formation of a new project to help provide federal workers fired by the Trump administration free legal support to protect their rights. The coalition includes unions like the AFL-CIO and AFGE, as well as civic organizations like Democracy Forward and Civic Nation.

FEDmanager: Legal Defense Network Set Up for Feds with Job Status Questions

The coalition is called the Federal Workers Legal Defense Network and it offers pro bono services. The effort is led by numerous groups including Democracy Forward, the AFL-CIO, the American Federation of Government Employees (AFGE), the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU), the Partnership for Public Service, and We The Action.

The Worker’s Rights: Rise Initiative Offers Free Legal Help to Fired Federal Workers

The latest among widespread job cuts in the U.S. federal workforce prompted the coalition of labor unions and advocacy groups to launch a new drive, called “Rise: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network.” The initiative, driven by the AFL-CIO and We The Action, would recruit and train thousands of volunteer lawyers to offer free consultations to affected workers. 

The Labor Tribune: AFL-CIO organizes new free federal workers legal defense network

The free program is called Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network. “We’ve organized this new network with federal worker unions and groups like We the Action and Democracy Forward, among others, to connect federal workers to a network of thousands of lawyers helping to get workers the free legal support they need,” the AFL-CIO said in a statement.

Heads Up News: The 250-year-old fight against monarchy never felt so relevant

New Help for Embattled Feds: Labor groups and their allies today launched a Federal Workers Legal Defense Network. The network will connect federal workers who have been fired or are concerned about their employment with free legal support through a network of trained pro bono attorneys. Do you need help? Do you want to help?

OnLabor: News & Commentary: April 18, 2025

Finally, the AFL-CIO, along with other unions and civil rights groups, launched “Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network”—a pro bono initiative to assist federal employees whose jobs have been threatened or terminated. The network features over 1,000 trained lawyers across 42 states who will help federal employees challenge dismissals and employment threats.

The STAND: AFL-CIO launches federal worker legal defense network

The labor movement and allies announced the formation of Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network on Wednesday, a new project to connect federal workers whose rights have been violated by the Trump administration with free legal support. The Legal Defense Network is powered by the AFL-CIO and We The Action.

AFL-CIO: Labor and Democracy Partners Announce Rise Up: Legal Defense Network for Fired Federal Workers

Legal Defense Network is powered by the AFL-CIO and We The Action. “This is a moment for lawyers to support the federal workers who serve us all,” said Anna Chu, executive director of We The Action. “ At a moment when our federal workforce is under attack, lawyers are uniquely positioned to take action. We’re honored to power the Federal Workers Legal Defense Network.”

AFL-CIO: Blog: Introducing Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network

We’ve organized this new network with federal worker unions and groups like We the Action and Democracy Forward, among others, to connect federal workers to a network of thousands of lawyers helping to get workers the free legal support they need.

Democracy Forward: ICYMI: Legal Defense Network for Fired Federal Workers

This week, Democracy Forward and several allies, announced the formation of Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network. See coverage below: New York Times: Unions Form Pro Bono Legal Network for Federal Workers Targeted by Trump. Federal Workers Legal Defense Network was formed by the A.F.L.-C.I.O. along with We The Action.

Democracy Forward: Trump Administration’s Attempt to Override Civil Service Protections is Unlawful

Trump administration will publish a new proposed regulation in the Federal Register, attempting to target non-partisan civil service by reclassifying employees and making it easier to fire them. Democracy Forward joined a coalition to support Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network, to connect workers whose rights have been violated with free legal representation.

Common Dreams: Unions Launch Legal Defense Project to 'Rise Up' Against Trump Attack on Federal Workers

A group of unions and labor movement allies on Wednesday announced the launch of a legal defense network. The legal groups like the American Constitution Society, We the Action, and Democracy Forward are partners on the project, as is the civil rights coalition the Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights.

The American Prospect: Inside the VA’s War on Unions

The AFL-CIO has tried to help fill any representational void by recruiting and training 1,000 lawyers in 42 states to serve as a Federal Workers Legal Defense Network. This group will provide legal advice and support for individual employees who face adverse action by their agencies, but still retain civil service rights and protections.

AFL-CIO: 100 Days of Speaking Truth to Power

In the past 100 days, we’ve launched our own Department of People Who Work for a Living rapid response program to hold the DOGE accountable—and Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network to get workers the legal support they need to fight back.

Civil Service Strong: Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network

Democracy Forward’s Civil Service Strong initiative has partnered with the AFL-CIO, We the Action, and other partners to launch the Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network. 

International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers: Labor and Allies Launch “Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network” to Support Fired Federal Workers

The NFFE-IAM has announced the launch of the “Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network.” This collaborative initiative, developed in partnership with the AFL-CIO, We The Action and other organizations, aims to provide free and direct legal support to federal workers who have been unjustly terminated or mistreated during the Trump administration.

International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers: April 29: IAM Union, NFFE-IAM, Labor Allies to Celebrate Federal Workers Outside Union Station

NFFE-IAM recently launched “Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network.” This collaborative initiative, developed in partnership with the AFL-CIO, We The Action, and other organizations, aims to provide free and direct legal support to federal workers who have been unjustly terminated or mistreated during the Trump administration.

National Federation of Federal Employees: NFFE & Labor Allies Launch Legal Defense Network

FFE is proud to announce Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Fund. Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network is a new effort organized by NFFE and groups like the AFL-CIO, We The Action, and Democracy Forward to bring together thousands of lawyers to help federal workers understand their rights so they can get the justice they deserve.

National Federation of Federal Employees: Fighting for Feds: How NFFE is Combating Attacks on the Civil Service

Working with Union Coalitions and Advocacy Groups: On April 16, NFFE and our allies launched Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network, a new organization connecting lawyers who can provide pro bono counsel to current and former federal workers. 

Michigan AFL-CIO: STATEMENT: Fired Federal Workers Expose DOGE Chaos and Inefficiency

Michigan AFL-CIO released statement from President Bieber regarding testimony of fired federal workers at today’s state Senate Labor Committee hearing. Labor movement and allies recently announced Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network, a new project to connect federal workers whose rights have been violated by the administration with free legal support.

NYC CLC AFL-CIO: Introducing Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network

The AFL-CIO has organized this new network with federal worker unions and groups like We the Action and Democracy Forward, among others, to connect federal workers to a network of thousands of lawyers helping to get workers the free legal support they need.

AFGE: Organized Labor, Democracy Partners Form Network to Provide Free Legal Support to Fired Federal Workers

AFGE has partnered to form Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network connecting lawyers who can provide free, direct legal support to federal workers who have been fired or current workers who are concerned their workplace rights are being threatened by the Trump administration. The Legal Defense Network is powered by the AFL-CIO and We The Action.

AFGE: Chaos and Corruption Weekly Digest: Week 13

April 16: AFGE partnered with other labor unions and allied organizations to form Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network connecting lawyers who can provide free, direct legal support to federal workers who have been fired or current workers who are concerned their workplace rights are being threatened by the Trump administration.

NARFE California Federation: Rise Up – Legal Defense for Feds

A coalition of good government organizations and federal unions has launched an initiative called “Rise Up,” a network of thousands of lawyers who will offer free legal support to employees. For more information on Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network, visit workerslegaldefense.org. Federal workers looking for legal support can begin the process here.”

Jewish Federation of Greater Washington: Navigating Federal Layoffs: Resources for You and Our Community

Federal Employees Legal Defense Network is uniting lawyers to assist current or former federal workers through a central hub to provide much needed representation. If you have experience representing federal employees or have already participated in a training, signup for the preliminary interest list here: We The Action’s Public Service Legal Response Center.

WNY Labor Today: Organized Labor & Democracy Announce The Formation Of ‘Rise Up: Legal Defense Network For Fired’ Federal Workers

The Labor Movement and its allies have announced the formation of Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network. The Network is powered by the National AFL-CIO and We The Action. Anna Chu, who serves as Executive Director of We The Action, said: “We The Action was founded on the fundamental premise that lawyers have the power to do good.”

Vital Law: LABOR NEWS—AFGE and allies create Legal Defense Network for federal workers displaced by Trump administration, (Apr 18, 2025)

The AFGE and other labor movement allies announced the formation of Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network, a new project to provide free legal support to federal workers impacted by the actions of the Trump administration. The Legal Defense Network was formed by the AFL-CIO and We The Action, along with other labor movement allies.

Democratic Underground: General Discussion: Unions Form Pro Bono Legal Network for Federal Workers Targeted by Trump

This 2025 season of activism takes many forms. Here is a great big community of lawyers combining their know-how. Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network was formed by the A.F.L.-C.I.O. along with several other unions and civil rights groups, including We The Action, a network that connects lawyers with nonprofits.

ESGDATA: Lavoratori e Democrazia annunciano "Rise Up: Legal Defense Network for Fired Federal Workers"

The labor movement and allies announced the formation of Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network. The network will connect federal workers whose rights have been violated by the Trump administration with free legal support. The Legal Defense Network is powered by the AFL-CIO and We The Action.

The New York State Senate: We The People: Taking Action to Save Democracy

List of Organizations that attended the Activist Resource Fair – Take Action and/or Volunteer: Rise Up: Federal Workers Legal Defense Network (Lawyers can Volunteer) https://workerslegaldefense.org/

American Constitution Society: ACS is Continuing to Fight Attacks on Legal Community and Rule of Law. Join Us.

We are working with a coalition of groups led by the AFL-CIO, the Union Lawyers Alliance, and We The Action to provide legal help to federal employees. The project, called the Federal Workers Legal Defense Network, has hosted trainings for volunteer lawyers. More than 1,000 lawyers have participated in trainings so far and ACS is actively recruiting more volunteers.

Democracy Notes: This week's Democracy Notes

Separately, are you a federal worker who needs pro-bono legal support? Check out the Federal Workers Legal Defense Network! And lawyers, sign up to offer your volunteer support!

MSNBC: The Rachel Maddow Show [Broadcast]

WTOP2-DC [Broadcast]

WCPT 820 [Broadcast]

CSPAN: Public Affairs Events [Broadcast]

CSPAN: Discussion on Cyber Defense Policy [Broadcast]

Amicus Mundi Award: The Lawyer Advocating for a Family Impacted by ALS

Happy National Volunteer Week! Established in 1974, this week is a time to recognize and thank volunteers who generously share their time and talents to meet the critical needs of our communities. From all of us at We The Action, thank you! Together, our community has donated more than 370,000 hours valued at $194 million to support over 700 nonprofit partners.

We’re excited to celebrate this week by shining a spotlight on a lawyer who used her expertise to successfully advocate for a family impacted by ALS.

Meet Hannah Doherty!

Work that inspires: Hannah Doherty credits both AmeriCorps and her current employer, Salesforce, with helping her make a direct impact on people’s lives.

  • As an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer in Chicago in 2008, Hannah worked for a public benefits hotline, where she witnessed firsthand the effects of the economic downturn. The experience inspired her to go to law school.

  • Like many law students, Hannah initially envisioned a career in public interest law. But a few years after graduating, she found herself uninspired at a law firm and eventually made the move to the private sector.

  • At Salesforce, Hannah was inspired by the company’s longstanding and core value of equality, including its commitment to equal pay for equal work.

Volunteering with I AM ALS: Through We The Action and Salesforce’s inclusive philanthropy model, Hannah was able to reconnect with the kind of work that first inspired her to attend law school.

  • She signed up for a project that I AM ALS posted on We The Action, assisting a client in appealing a life insurance policy error after the client’s husband passed away from ALS, otherwise known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.

  • Hannah’s advocacy made a powerful difference: the client ultimately received the full life insurance benefits her late spouse had intended to leave for her.

  • “The client felt hopeless and unheard when she was advocating for herself, and I know the process of working with Hannah was healing for her family,” says Allie Sebesta, Senior ALS Support Specialist. “They can now grieve without the added weight of a financial burden.”

Honoring Maura: By volunteering, Hannah was able to use her legal expertise to honor the memory of her sister, Maura, who passed away from ALS in 2022.

  • “Dealing with this disease is just really, really hard,” Hannah says. “So when I saw the opportunity to help someone facing a challenge because of their experience with ALS, I had to jump at it.”

  • “Working at a big corporation, you don’t always get that sense of direct advocacy – the feeling of being able to help somebody. When she told me she got the check in the mail, that was pretty awesome. I'm glad I was able to help. It felt like I was able to make something right for them, to give them some justice.”

Improving the lives of people affected by rare disease: There are over 10,000 rare diseases affecting over 400 million people worldwide. We The Action is proud to partner with patient-led organizations in the Rare As One Network, a network of nearly 100 patient-led organizations driving forward progress in rare disease.

  • In addition to advocacy projects like the one Hannah is supporting, lawyers are needed to support rare disease patient organizations to ensure compliance with relevant regulations and laws governing research, clinical trials, and the eventual dissemination of treatments.

  • Hannah leaves us with this advice: Find something that matters to you. “Lawyers help people navigate uncertainty and hardship. Now more than ever, what we do is critically important.”

  • Get involved: Learn more and sign up for a project today!

Congratulations, Hannah, on behalf of our community of 54,000+ lawyers!

2024 Impact Report

In 2024, We The Action played a key role in protecting our elections, helped increase representation for refugees and asylum seekers, launched a partnership to bring legal support to patient-led rare disease organizations, and so much more.

To date, We The Action’s community of 52,000 volunteer lawyers have donated over 370,000 hours worth $194M to our 700 nonprofit partners.

We are excited to share our 2024 Impact Report with you and reflect on what we were able to achieve together last year. Check out the full report here:

We know that our work is more urgent than ever. In 2025, we’ve already launched two critical new efforts, the Immigration Legal Response Center and the Public Service Legal Response Center. Whether you are looking for ways to help immigrant communities under threat or to connect with federal workers who may have been fired or pressured to resign, we have pro bono opportunities available right now that need your support.

Amicus Mundi Award: The Lawyer Empowering a Whistleblower

Every month, we give the Amicus Mundi Award to an outstanding lawyer in our community who exemplifies our shared values of service and dedication to building a more just and equitable society. This month, we are thrilled to recognize an exceptional volunteer who turned her expertise and compassion into meaningful impact for a whistleblower seeking justice.

Join us in saying…

Congratulations, Vonda Vandaveer!

Standing Up for Justice: Vonda, an accomplished attorney and volunteer, exemplifies a deep commitment to service. Vonda has spent her career speaking truth to power, and has been a practicing attorney for 25 years, after a transition from a career as a journalist.

  • Having worked on immigration and special visa cases, fighting bad corporate actors, and contracting with the federal government, Vonda wanted to find pro bono work that matched her unique experience and skillset.

  • Almost immediately after signing up for We The Action, Vonda found the perfect project with the Government Accountability Project (GAP) – a whistleblower disclosure case involving human rights violations and illegality at the Baker County Detention Center, a county jail that operates in part as a federal immigration detention facility near Jacksonville, Florida.

The Need for a Caring Lawyer: About a year ago, around the time that Vonda signed up for this project, a medical worker reached out to GAP about disclosing the abhorrent conditions at Baker.

  • Andrea Meza, Director of Advocacy Campaigns at GAP, says, “Our organization has a long track record of working with people of integrity, people who believe they have to do something in the face of injustice. Because of Vonda, we were able to take the case.”

  • Vonda adds, “This whistleblower couldn’t just sit idle. They really felt strongly about the issue and they were very motivated and committed to seeing it through. Their perseverance was extraordinary and inspiring.”

Building a Disclosure: This facility has been under scrutiny since it first took on an ICE contract 15 years ago. This was the first time GAP heard from someone working on the inside.

  • The whistleblower, a former medical practitioner at Baker, documented a pattern of systemic neglect: staff denying basic medical care, falsifying records to cover their tracks, and subjecting detained individuals to racial and sexual harassment.

  • Because of the complex nature of ICE’s policy guidelines and standards, it took someone willing to comb through all of those policies and point to the exact abuses mentioned in the complaints. Vonda was the person to do just that.

  • Andrea says, “She worked so thoughtfully and carefully with extreme attention to detail. This was just a really solid disclosure all around, and really well done.”

  • Just over a month ago, GAP released this disclosure, finally bringing to light the abuses brought forward by this determined whistleblower. The organization hopes this disclosure will lead to the end of ICE’s contract with Baker.  

Lasting Impact and Further Need: GAP is the nation’s leading whistleblower protection and advocacy organization, having assisted over 8,000 whistleblowers since its founding in 1977. 

  • GAP anticipates a continued need for volunteers like Vonda to work on disclosures and cases like this, and they are standing ready to continue to support federal employees.

  • Vonda says, “These are all legal skills—research, writing, advocacy. GAP provides the subject matter expertise. So for anyone interested in getting involved, don’t be afraid. All the skills are transferable, and the mentorship you receive is invaluable.”

  • To get involved like Vonda and support whistleblowers, sign up for this important project from GAP; You can read the press release about this disclosure here.

On behalf of 50,000+ lawyers, congratulations Vonda!

Amicus Mundi: The Lawyer Who Made a Difference on Election Day

Every month, we give the Amicus Mundi Award to an outstanding lawyer in our community who exemplifies our shared values of service and dedication to building a more just and equitable society. This Thanksgiving week, we want to express our heartfelt gratitude to the 6,000 We The Action volunteers who helped ensure the 2024 elections were safe and accessible for all voters. We especially want to thank a poll monitor in New Jersey who turned what could have been a disenfranchising event into an empowering one.

Join us in saying…

Congratulations David Hubbard!

Going Where Help is Needed: David Hubbard, Vice President and Deputy General Counsel at Verizon Consumer Group, exemplifies a deep commitment to service. 

  • "I'd read a lot and heard about election issues over the past few elections—not just in New Jersey, but across the country,” says David. “I knew I wanted to help, to have some impact in the election." 

  • David joined the Verizon Pro Bono team supporting the PLAN-LEAAD Foundation’s Election Protection program in New Jersey, serving as a poll monitor for the first time.

Protecting Rights and Democracy: The PLAN-LEAAD Foundation works to protect democracy and to serve marginalized communities, including incarcerated individuals and those reentering society after release. 

  • The organization provides cost-free civil legal services and resources for presently and formerly incarcerated people, operates the non-partisan Election Protection Poll Monitoring Program in New Jersey, and coordinates the Election Jail & Post-Release Voting Working Group in collaboration with other nonprofits.

  • "Our mission is simple: to serve those who are often left behind," says Stanley Holdorf, Supervising Attorney and Member of the Board. “We want every voice to be heard in our democracy.”

Election Day Impact: On election night, PLAN-LEAAD Foundation learned that a potential mass disenfranchisement event was unfolding in Burlington County. Due to county-wide poll machine issues, wait times were up to 6 hours long at some polling places and closing time was fast-approaching. 

  • Amelia Armstrong, Executive Director of the PLAN-LEAAD Foundation, says, "I called David around 8 p.m. and asked if he could help. David said, ‘Where do you need me? I’ll go.’”

  • David didn’t just show up; he brought water and snacks for voters stuck in long lines and offered moral support to those facing confusion and frustration. 

  • David says, "I was amazed by how many people were willing to wait as long as it took to make their voices heard. There were lines around the building. It was inspiring. I’d do it a thousand times over. It was an honor to support people in exercising their right to vote.”

Empowering a Voter: One voter, told to leave because of delays, was ready to give up—but David stayed with him, offering reassurance. With David’s help, the voter cast his ballot, demonstrating the critical importance of this type of support.

  • Stanley says, “By definition, David’s efforts changed the course of this election, by ensuring that this voter’s ballot was among those cast and counted. To be a true democracy, our elections must include the voices of all eligible voters who want to cast a ballot.”

  • David recalls, “He was so grateful. He gave me a hug and said, ‘I wouldn’t have voted if it wasn’t for you.’ That moment felt incredibly rewarding."

The Power of Service: “When that voter stayed to cast their vote, it was because David made them feel their voice mattered,” says Stanley. “This is more than just protecting the vote; it’s about ensuring people feel heard.”

  • Amelia says, "We need volunteers like David who come with a heart for service. If you’re ready to help, we’ll find a place for you."

  • The PLAN-LEAAD Foundation has exciting initiatives coming up, including projects focused on jailhouse law libraries and post-release voting guides. Stay tuned for more projects from this incredible organization, and follow in David’s footsteps and find your next project here.

On behalf of 50,000+ volunteer lawyers: Thank you, David!

We The Action’s Guide to Voter Protection Opportunities for Lawyers

Make your plan to help protect our freedom to vote!

Voter protection efforts are underway! Each state has unique needs and our goal is to help you find the best way to get involved. This election season, there is a role for every We The Action lawyer.

Do you want to volunteer in your state? 
For the following volunteer opportunities, you must be licensed to practice law and/or be registered to vote in the state where the work occurs.

  • Observe the Official Canvass: Volunteers will observe the official canvass and report on mass challenges to ballots and attempts to halt the canvassing process. Shifts are available in Florida, Michigan, and Wisconsin.

  • Be an Election Protection Challenger: Challengers have the right to challenge the actions of poll workers if the challenger believes that the poll worker is not following the law. Shifts are available in Michigan at Absent Voter Counting Boards.

  • Restore Voting Rights: Several states have laws that make it hard for people with past convictions to restore their right to vote. Lawyers are needed to file rights restoration petitions in Florida, Arizona, and Tennessee.


Do you want to travel to protect the vote? 
Election protection themed vacation? Yes! The following in-person opportunities are open to any bar license and residency. Out of state volunteers are welcome!

  • Observe the Official Canvass: Volunteers will observe the official canvass and report on mass challenges to ballots and attempts to halt the canvassing process. Shifts are available in Wisconsin.


Do you want to volunteer from your office (or couch)?
The following opportunities can be completed remotely. Some require a specific bar license or expertise. 

  • Support Election Officials: Provide election officials with legal help in response to the increasing wave in harassments, threats, and state laws subjecting them to criminal penalties for performing their jobs. Priority needs in Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Wisconsin. If you are not licensed in a priority state, you can still join here. 

Over 6,500 We The Action lawyers have already donated $47M worth of legal services to 40 organizations working to make the 2024 elections safe, secure, and accessible for every voter. You don’t need us to tell you how critical the next few weeks will be. Now is your chance to do something!

Volunteering is more fun with a friend! Please forward this guide to lawyers in your community and encourage them to sign up for a voter protection shift today! 

Thanks for doing your part to protect and preserve our democracy!

Amicus Mundi Award: The Lawyer Supporting Election Officials!

Happy Pro Bono Week!

Today, we begin our National Celebration of Pro Bono, and we want to take this opportunity to thank you for supporting our nonprofit partners and, of course, fair elections!

This week, we challenge you to find and sign up for a project that matches your interest or your expertise. Don’t worry, we have plenty to choose from!

To start Pro Bono Week strong, we are recognizing our October Amicus Mundi Award Winner, a volunteer who exemplifies our shared values of service and dedication to building a more just and equitable society. We are excited to celebrate a lawyer who used their expertise to advise an election official facing harassment.


Join us in saying…

Congratulations, Gene Farber!

Community Service and Election Protection: Gene Farber has displayed a lifelong commitment to service through various roles, including clerking for his state Supreme Court.

  • Gene also served on his town council and engaged in extensive pro bono work on election projects focused on recounts, recalls, and ballot issues.

  • When the opportunity came to work with Election Official Legal Network (EOLDN) and help someone in need, Gene enthusiastically signed up.

The Important Work of Protecting Election Officials: While U.S. elections are safer and more secure than ever, rampant election misinformation continues to fuel the harassment and intimidation of election workers. 

  • In response, EOLDN, a project of the nonpartisan, nonprofit Center for Election Innovation & Research, has assembled a network of pro bono attorneys passionate about free and fair elections who can provide advice or assistance to these public servants just trying to do their jobs.  

  • Gene joined the network to ensure that elections run smoothly. And when an election official in his state needed urgent support, Gene responded to the request, meeting with the election official that same day.

  • Angie Pitha, Project Lead at EOLDN, explains, “Gene has been standing by to help election workers since 2022. When the time came for an urgent response, Gene rearranged his day to contact the election official without a second thought. His longtime commitment and quick action truly demonstrate his dedication to this work.”

  • Gene adds, “At this point in time, no projects are more worthy than protecting election officials. In terms of ensuring that the election runs smoothly, nothing is more important.”

The Impact of a Volunteer: When election workers request legal support from EOLDN, they often share that it is one of the most difficult times in their lives. EOLDN expresses that they are so thankful that Gene answered the call to help an election worker through that time. 

  • Angie says, “Volunteers like Gene not only provide crucial legal support, but they help many election workers feel less alone.” 

  • Gene says, “It's really important that if an elected official is feeling pressured — and that's happening quite a bit now — that they have somebody they can turn to. It's a real public service that these officials are doing.”

Be Like Gene: Election officials, like the individual Gene helped, face challenges like this all across the country. 

  • EOLDN needs lawyers like you to ensure we are prepared to support election heroes. While election law experience can be helpful, EOLDN needs lawyers with experience in a variety of areas of the law, such as litigation, employee-side employment law, First Amendment/defamation, and criminal defense, or who can provide general guidance on legal options. 

  • You can find more information about the projects and sign up here.

  • “There's a certain privilege that goes with being a lawyer,” says Gene. “And I truly believe we have a duty to give back to the community. We have a duty to help maintain a functioning justice system.”

On behalf of 50,000+ lawyers, congratulations Gene!

Amicus Mundi: The Lawyer Protecting Your Right to Vote

Every month, we give the Amicus Mundi Award to an outstanding lawyer in our community who exemplifies our shared values of service and dedication to building a more just and equitable society. This month’s award recipient has tirelessly devoted herself to voter protection, volunteering hundreds of hours to ensure that a vote cast is a vote counted.


Join us in saying…

Congratulations, JoAnne Klabin!

An Asset to Voters: JoAnne Klabin is a powerhouse of volunteerism. An exemplary leader with the national nonpartisan voter hotline (866-OUR-VOTE), she has completed nearly 200 shifts since 2020, dedicating over 800 hours to assisting voters and supporting fellow hotline volunteers. 

  • Jo has been promoted within the Election Protection volunteer structure twice and now serves at the highest level of leadership. 

  • As a captain, JoAnne is the backbone of the hotline, directly supporting volunteers as they assist voters. She has gone above and beyond by single-handedly writing extensive updates on materials for Hawaii, becoming the go-to expert on that state.

  • Katharine Fullenkamp, Election Protection Legal Analyst at Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law, says, “JoAnne is deeply invested in protecting the right to vote. She is a major asset to the program and the voters of our country.”

Living Out Her Values: JoAnne has a deep history of service. She inherited her commitment to volunteerism from her father, who she describes as a lifelong learner and a committed volunteer.

  • She explains, ​​“This work has allowed me to learn new facets of law and has given me the chance to act out a perfect combination of the values that he passed on to me.”

  • Katharine adds, “JoAnne takes her volunteer duties very seriously and frequently checks in with staff and fellow leaders to make sure everything is handled correctly.”

Protecting the Vote: The national, nonpartisan Election Protection coalition, of which We The Action is a partner, provides Americans from coast to coast with comprehensive information and assistance at all stages of voting – from registration, to absentee and early voting, to casting a vote at the polls, to overcoming obstacles to their participation. 

  • Election Protection helps voters make sure their vote is counted through a number of resources, including the 866-OUR VOTE hotline. 

  • The year-round hotline is staffed by trained legal volunteers, many of whom come from We The Action. 

Your Chance to Get Involved: The Lawyers’ Committee is still looking for legal volunteers to serve as captains for the national voter hotline. Volunteers have access to state-specific voter guides and training, and all volunteering is done remotely.

  • JoAnne encourages other lawyers to apply to be a captain. She says, “This is an incredible, supportive community. Plus, it's not very often that you have the opportunity to do something that has as much of an impact on somebody as easing their path to voting.”

  • She continues, “There are so many amazing people doing this work. There are hundreds of other people who should be recognized for their volunteer work along with me.”

To be like JoAnne, apply to be a captain and help protect the vote by signing up here. For more election-related volunteer opportunities, check out this Voter Protection Guide.

On behalf of 48,000+ lawyers, congratulations JoAnne!

Legal Nonprofit We The Action Names Leading Lawyer Michael Gottlieb To Advisory Council

Michael Gottlieb joins Council Chair Dana Remus and several other prominent lawyers from nonprofit, academic, and private sectors to help steer We The Action’s efforts to strengthen democracy, advance gender and racial justice, and more.

Today, We The Action announced that Michael Gottlieb (Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP) will join their Advisory Council to help shape the work of the nonprofit’s community of more than 47,000 volunteer lawyers and 650 nonprofit organizations.

Michael Gottlieb is an impressive and well-decorated lawyer with an admirable commitment to pro bono work. He received High Honors in the D.C. Courts’ 2023 Capital Pro Bono Honor Roll in recognition of over 100 hours of volunteer legal work.

In the past two years, Gottlieb was also nominated as American Lawyer’s Attorney of the Year, Forbes named him as one of America’s Top 200 Lawyers, and Lawdragon recognized him twice — both as one of America’s 500 Leading Lawyers and as one of America’s 500 Leading Litigators.

Michael Gottlieb’s legal expertise and pro bono experience will be valuable assets for We The Action and its community of lawyers both in this critical moment for our democracy and beyond.

Amicus Mundi: The Lawyer Protecting Access to Reproductive Health

Every month, we give the Amicus Mundi Award to an outstanding lawyer in our community who exemplifies our shared values of service and dedication to building a more just and equitable society. This month’s award recipient used his time and talent to help a healthcare provider navigate abortion restrictions and keep their doors open in the aftermath of Senate Bill 20 in North Carolina.


Join us in saying…

Congratulations, George McGregor!

A Change in Path: George McGregor began his career working in biomedical engineering and mathematics, and spent decades researching AIDS, cancer treatments, and the effects of airborne toxins. 

  • After deciding to pursue a legal career, he attended law school at night for four years, passed the bar in 2007, and has since devoted his career to the law.

  • George was raised in a family that valued service, a commitment evident in his work with Disability Rights Vermont, where he advocates for individuals with disabilities. 

  • George joined We The Action in 2021, expecting to volunteer in his areas of expertise. Fate took a turn when he connected with Janet Crepps, Director at Regulatory Assistance for Abortion Providers (RAAP).

Navigating the Post-Roe Landscape: In the aftermath of the Dobbs ruling, state and federal laws and regulations have been used as a tool to hinder access to abortion services. 

  • RAAP relies on volunteer lawyers like George to work with providers in states to help them navigate abortion restrictions and reduce the negative impacts of anti-abortion laws.

  • This assistance includes assessing the legal implications of providing abortion to patients from states with abortion bans, understanding current threats to medication abortion services, and responding to new and evolving restrictions.

Protecting Healthcare: George has worked tirelessly with RAAP in North Carolina, which passed new restrictive laws in 2023, to help reproductive healthcare providers keep their doors open and remain compliant with the law. 

  • These providers can now confidently work within the law, so they can focus on the day-to-day running of their operations.

  • Janet says, “George has been committed for a long time, but his enthusiasm hasn’t diminished at all.”

  • She continues, “Without volunteers like George, our clients would have to go elsewhere because we wouldn’t be able to meet their needs.”

Trying Something New: George had not previously worked in the reproductive health space before taking on this project. He has embraced this new area of law in stride, and encourages others to do the same.

  • He explains, “If you're going to take on a volunteer project, you might want to look at something you haven't done before. It's going to be a challenge. It adds a little spice to life, so it will give you a little more energy to take it on. Take it one step at a time, inch by inch.”

 

To follow in George’s footsteps and get involved in reproductive freedom work, check out our projects here. 

On behalf of 47,000+ lawyers, congratulations George!

Amicus Mundi Award: The Lawyer Protecting Children from Deportation

Every month, we give the Amicus Mundi Award to an outstanding lawyer in our community who exemplifies our shared values of service and dedication to building a more just and equitable society. This month, we’re celebrating a lawyer that has dedicated years to fighting for three young women on their journey to permanent residency in the United States.

Join us in saying…

Congratulations, Elaine Chapnik!

A Heart for Social Justice: Elaine is a retired attorney living in New York who spent her career working in the NYC public hospital system. Growing up as the child of Holocaust survivors, she always had a heart for social justice.

  • While she has volunteered throughout her life, she had never done pro bono legal work until a colleague introduced her to Safe Passage Project just a few years before her retirement.

Free Lawyers for Immigrant Children: Every year, tens of thousands of children travel alone to the United States looking for a better life. 

  • Immigrants are not entitled to court-appointed legal counsel. As a result, more than half of immigrant children must go through immigration proceedings without the aid of a lawyer. 

  • Unable to effectively argue their claim for the legal protections they may qualify for, more than 80% of these children are issued deportation orders. 

  • Safe Passage Project, working with dedicated volunteers like Elaine, is committed to providing free legal representation to refugee and immigrant children in New York City and Long Island, ensuring that children do not face the immigration process alone.  

A Commitment to Service: When Elaine signed up to volunteer with Safe Passage Project in 2017, representing a child who crossed into the U.S., she assumed she would be taking on a straightforward immigration case as a way to do some good and learn something new. 

  • Seven years later, she is still working with the young woman and her two sisters, who also came to the U.S. on their own. 

  • Over the years, they have been able to lean on Elaine for support, whether they’re facing immigration court or retrieving an item left in a cab. 

The Path to a Better Life: After a thorny immigration process, with the support of Elaine and other attorneys, these young women are finally ready to file their green card applications.

  • Tania Cohen, Managing Attorney at Safe Passage Project, says, “Without Elaine working on this case, these three sisters would be aging out of the only form of relief they have. Because of Elaine, within the next year, they will be able to have their green card, which means having stability, employment authorization, and a path to citizenship. The alternative was deportation.”

  • "I think about them coming across the border by themselves,” says Elaine. “They weren't together. They were separated. If they can do that, then I can help them. These kids have gone through a lot. All they wanted was to have a chance at a good life and be reunited with their mother.”

You Can Change Lives: Lawyers who volunteer with Safe Passage Project do not need prior immigration experience to get involved. Staff attorneys provide training, mentorship, and oversight on all cases. They aim to ensure that a lack of direct experience does not prevent anyone from helping children in need. 

  • Elaine says, “Safe Passage Project has great mentors to help you along. Everything I do is reviewed by an attorney at Safe Passage Project, so I'm never nervous. You're not out there on your own, so no one should worry about not having experience.”

  • You don’t need to make a seven year commitment like Elaine, but to get involved and help children who are looking for a better life, sign up at the link here. 

On behalf of 46,000+ lawyers, congratulations Elaine!

Amicus Mundi Award: The Lawyers Fighting to End Solitary Confinement

Every month, we give the Amicus Mundi Award to outstanding lawyers in our community who exemplify our shared values of service and dedication to building a more just and equitable society. This month, we’re celebrating two lawyers using their passion and expertise to improve the lives of incarcerated people by representing individuals facing solitary confinement.

Join us in saying…

Congratulations, Elise Czuchna and Keli Cochran!

A Passion for Justice: Elise Czuchna and Keli Cochran went to law school with the sole purpose of advocating for incarcerated individuals and addressing incarceration-related issues. 

  • Elise has been working in this issue area since she was an undergraduate, where she worked on a theater program for incarcerated individuals. Since 2021, Elise has worked at Prisoners' Legal Services of New York, focusing on providing direct services to incarcerated individuals, particularly concerning disciplinary hearings and confinement issues.

  • Keli is a fierce advocate for incarcerated people and has been pushing for change in the justice system with the #HALTsolitary Campaign since 2012. Motivated by her two brothers' experiences within the New York prison system, she draws inspiration from them to combat the school-to-prison pipeline and advocate against inhumane incarceration practices. Through her organization, Advocates for the Voiceless, Keli works with individuals in all steps of the disciplinary system, from schools, to prison, to reentry.

Campaign to End Solitary Confinement: The #HALTsolitary Campaign joined We The Action in 2021, shortly after the New York State legislature passed the HALT Solitary Confinement Law. The campaign leads the charge to end the torture of solitary for all people and create more humane and effective alternatives.

  • Under the new HALT law, for the first time ever, people in New York prisons and jails are allowed representation at disciplinary hearings that could result in solitary confinement or restrictive housing. These can be complex cases, as the representatives have to navigate the difficulties and bureaucracy of the incarceration system. That’s where We The Action lawyers come in.

  • Scott Paltrowitz, Member of the #HALTsolitary Campaign, says, “These hearings are an opportunity to partner with a person facing this racist and oppressive system, support that individual in trying to stay out of torturous conditions, and help to ensure the HALT solitary law is being implemented properly.”

The Fight for Humane Treatment: Both Elise and Keli have been working with the #HALTsolitary Campaign for years, using We The Action to find and share individual cases in New York. 

  • In addition to providing direct representation, Elise trains other attorneys and advocates, sharing insights and strategies for navigating disciplinary hearings. Scott says, “Elise has been a trailblazer in this space, and has done a remarkable job at the forefront of this new endeavor. It’s a new system and high learning curve and she’s done an amazing job of both representing people and also sharing her wisdom and expertise with others.”

  • Families of people in solitary confinement often reach out for help, and Keli has remained steadfast in her commitment to providing high quality, pro bono representation whenever she is able. Scott explains, “Keli jumped in when there wasn’t much history doing this. She has balanced her work and has been able to help individuals and push back against these harsh punishments.”

You Can Make an Impact: The work of the #HALTsolitary Campaign is far from over. Law students and New York barred lawyers are always needed to take on cases, and the campaign works to train volunteers to prepare for the hearing process.

  • Keli and Elise are profoundly impacting the lives of individuals facing hardship in the justice system. To get involved like Elise and Keli, sign up at the link here. 

On behalf of 45,000+ lawyers, congratulations Keli and Elise!

Amicus Mundi: The Lawyer Increasing Access to Voting

Every month, we give the Amicus Mundi Award to an outstanding lawyer in our community who exemplifies our shared values of service and dedication to building a more just and equitable society. Today, we’re ending National Volunteer Week by celebrating a lawyer who used her expertise to make the electoral process more accessible for all Floridians. 

Join us in saying…

Congratulations, Roshelle Nagar

A Voting Rights Warrior: For over 20 years, Roshelle Nagar has dedicated her time to Election Protection pro bono efforts, engaging in both fieldwork and voter hotlines. 

  • As a corporate lawyer and litigator by day, Roshelle views volunteering beyond her expertise as an enriching learning opportunity. 

  • In addition to the projects that Roshelle finds through We The Action, she continues her active volunteer engagement by serving on the boards of a nonprofit microlending organization and a Jewish theater company.


Accessibility at the Polls: A study of the 2020 elections found that 11% of voters with disabilities reported that they faced some type of difficulty casting a ballot. The Florida Election Protection Coalition is working to improve voting access to ensure equitable voting processes for all Floridians.

  • On March 19, during Florida’s special election, Roshelle served as a volunteer legal monitor, traveling to 11 polling locations to ensure citizens were able to cast their ballots.

  • In addition to serving as a legal monitor, Roshelle evaluated polling locations for disability access, using a survey created by Disability Rights Florida.

 
Making an Impact: The work that Roshelle completed will carry over to the elections happening in Florida later this year, which is vital to the fight to make sure everyone has equal access to voting. 

  • “Poll workers wanted to make sure everyone was able to come and vote,” Roshelle says. But they also shared how improvements could be made. The process was not perfect everywhere.

  • Disability Rights Florida is currently analyzing the information collected by volunteers and will engage with counties and jurisdictions to make improvements.

  • Flose LaPierre, Election Protections Manager at Common Cause Florida, says, “Roshelle’s participation in this program was invaluable. Her work will allow Disability Rights Florida to understand accessibility needs at polling locations and advocate for improvements. The quality of work she produced will make the electoral process more accessible for all Floridians.”

  • Roshelle continues, “Since my experience volunteering, every time I go to the store, I'm looking to see if there is proper disability access. It certainly is something that's going to be more important to me moving forward because my awareness has increased so much as a result of the project.”


The Work Continues: This year, voters will continue to face obstacles, and this is especially true for voters with disabilities. Florida lawyers, please consider following Roshelle’s example and sign up to be a voting rights monitor on August 20th. 

For lawyers nationwide, We The Action’s Voter Vanguard will identify and address election administration problems, combat voter purges, educate voters about their rights, and protect the vote at polling places and call centers across the country. Join here to be notified about opportunities to protect democracy in your community.

On behalf of 45,000+ volunteer lawyers: Thank you, Roshelle!