Ringing in the New Year with Purpose: The Transformative Power of Pro Bono Volunteering

As the clock strikes midnight, ushering in a new year, many of us embark on a journey of self-reflection and resolutions. While personal goals often take center stage, there exists a profound opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others—pro bono volunteering. In the spirit of the new year, let's explore the transformative power of dedicating time and expertise to those in need through pro bono work.

1. A Resolution for Good:

New Year's resolutions typically involve self-improvement, but what if our aspirations extended beyond personal goals? Pro bono volunteering offers a resolution for good—a commitment to use our skills and knowledge to benefit those who may not have access to essential services. It's a promise to make the world a better place, one act of kindness at a time.

2. Fulfilling the Pledge of Giving:

The new year often prompts us to reflect on the blessings we've received and consider how we can give back. Pro bono volunteering provides a tangible way to fulfill the pledge of giving, allowing us to contribute to the well-being of our community. By offering our time and expertise, we become catalysts for positive change.

3. Building a Legacy of Impact:

Each new year offers a blank canvas—a chance to shape the legacy we leave behind. Pro bono work enables us to build a legacy of impact, leaving footprints of compassion and support in the lives of those less fortunate. It's an investment in a future where the echoes of our service resonate for generations to come.

4. Professional Growth with Purpose:

As we set career goals for the new year, let's consider the profound impact of professional growth with purpose. Pro bono volunteering provides an avenue for honing our skills, gaining diverse experiences, and expanding our networks—all while contributing to the greater good. It's a dual commitment to personal and professional development.

5. A Year of Advocacy:

The turning of the calendar marks not only a change in date but also an opportunity to advocate for justice and equality. Pro bono work allows us to be champions for those who may not have a voice, addressing systemic issues and working towards a more just society. In the new year, let's make advocacy a cornerstone of our actions.

As we welcome the new year with hope and anticipation, let's carry the spirit of giving and compassion into our daily lives. Pro bono volunteering stands as a powerful vehicle for turning our aspirations into tangible actions, creating a ripple effect of positive change. In 2023, let our resolutions extend beyond personal boundaries, encompassing a commitment to serve, uplift, and empower those in need. Together, let's make the new year a chapter of purpose, where pro bono volunteering becomes a cornerstone of our journey towards a brighter, more compassionate future.

By Summer D. Hawks, Esq. Exec. Dir. GDVLP summer@gdvlp.org

The Honorable Chris Epley was elected Presiding and Administrative Judge of the Ohio Second District Court of Appeals for 2024 by Judges Welbaum, Tucker, Lewis and Huffman. The Second District includes six counties: Montgomery, Greene, Clark, Miami, Darke, and Champaign counties. As Presiding Judge, Judge Epley chairs general meetings of the court and presides over oral arguments in the court room. As the Administrative Judge, Judge Epley is responsible for the administration, docket, case assignment, and calendar of the Second District Court of Appeals.

The law firm, Coolidge Wall Co., LPA is pleased to announce the following (photos above from left to right):

• Dina Cary joins as of counsel in our Litigation department.

• Michael Ruffolo has joined the firm as an associate in its Corporate & Business, Estate Planning and Probate, and Tax Departments.

• Jordan Staley joins as an associate in our Real Estate and Corporate/Business Departments.

The National Board of Trial Advocacy (NBTA) is pleased to announce that John H. Rion and his son, Jon Paul Rion of the law firm, Rion, Rion and Rion, L.P.A. Inc. have successfully achieved recertification as a criminal trial advocate. The NBTA was formed out of a strong conviction that both the law profession and its clients would benefit from an organization designed specifically to create an objective set of standards illustrating an attorney's experience and expertise in the practice of trial law. The Rions are part of a growing number of trial attorneys that have illustrated their commitment to bettering the legal profession by successfully completing a rigorous application process and providing the consumer of legal services with an objective measure by which to choose qualified and experienced legal counsel.

In addition to recently receiving the prestigious OSBF Ritter Award, Merle Wilberding authored an article recently featured in the Dayton Daily News, "VOICES: Reaching across the aisle, one step at a time". Read it here: https://www.daytondailynews.com/ ideas-voices/voices-reaching-across-the-aisle-one-step-at-a-time/ DBNNUZAVKBGYBLG756LUTHZ5CE/#

Members on the Move

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