At a time when democracy and the rule of law are increasingly threatened by hostile policies and attacks on marginalized communities, the Justice & Center (JDC) of the Bar Association of San Francisco remains steadfast in its mission. Through thousands of hours of donated pro bono service, JDC supports a range of legal initiatives – including the Tenants Advocacy Project, Family Law Project, Immigrant Legal Defense Project, Homeless Advocacy Project, Legal Advice and Referral Clinic, and Low Income Taxpayer Clinic. This vital work protects the rights of society’s most vulnerable and upholds the principles of justice, equity, and due process – ideals increasingly under siege.
This past spring, we were proud to honor 80 volunteers and legal professionals at JDC’s annual Outstanding Volunteers in Public Service (OVIPS) Celebration, held at UC Law San Francisco. The keynote address was by California Supreme Court Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero, the first Latina to serve as Chief Justice. Among the 80 volunteers, we also acknowledged 25 Crystal Award Winners, firms and individuals who go above and beyond outstanding in their contributions in the past year.
“In these uncertain and challenging times, it is incumbent upon those who have resources and abilities to assist those in need to do so. We are all the beneficiaries of others who have cut paths ahead of us and pro bono work is a small but impactful way to repay that debt” shared Yasmine Mehmet, who has been a loyal volunteer to the Family Law Project for decades.
The Justice & Diversity Center extends its sincere thanks to its volunteers and we are proud to uplift you as advocates fighting for a more just and inclusive society. For more information about JDC and how to get involved, visit JDC's Legal Services Programs.
See photos from OVIPS below!
