Throughout October, Shutts & Bowen LLP coordinated multiple community service initiatives across its Florida offices in recognition of Pro Bono Month, demonstrating the firm's commitment to serving the community through pro bono initiatives and volunteer events. The firm's Pro Bono Committee, co-chaired by Ella Shenhav and Michael Gore, coordinated efforts that reflected Shutts' longstanding culture of giving back.
In West Palm Beach, attorneys and staff organized a food drive benefiting the Palm Beach County Food Bank, collecting 815 pounds of food, enough to provide more than 679 nutritious meals to local families, children, seniors and individuals in need. The Fort Lauderdale office hosted an in-office volunteer event in partnership with Ranger Good Works, assembling more than 50 bags of essentials and treats for underprivileged families from Dillard Elementary School.
The Tallahassee office partnered with the new First Amendment Clinic at Florida State University, founded by former Shutts attorney Denise Harle, to support pro bono litigation advancing free speech and religious liberty issues. In Tampa, the team coordinated a Dunk for a Cause fundraiser on October 16, combining fun and philanthropy. The event raised money for breast cancer research and DIPG advocacy, with $4,730 raised and 315 pro bono hours pledged.
On October 22, the Miami office hosted an educational Pro Bono Month celebration and panel discussion featuring Chief Judge Laurel M. Isicoff of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Florida and Stephanie Grosman, Esq., of Dade Legal Aid. The event, moderated by Shutts attorneys Emma Refuveille and Julissa Rodriguez, explored the importance of pro bono service and opportunities through the Business Law Section's Pro Bono Committee and Dade Legal Aid's Put Something Back Project, followed by a networking reception.
Ella Shenhav, Co-Chair of the Shutts & Bowen Pro Bono Committee, stated, 'Pro Bono Month reminds us that every act of service, whether through our legal skills or through community outreach, has the power to transform lives. I am truly proud of how our offices came together this month to give their time, resources and compassion to support Floridians in need.' She added, 'As we close out Pro Bono Month, we extend our gratitude to every Shutts attorney and staff member who contributed to these initiatives. Our collective efforts this October reflect what we stand for year-round – using our talents to serve and strengthen our communities.'
For HR vendors, these initiatives highlight the growing importance of corporate social responsibility in talent management and employee engagement. Companies that foster a culture of giving back can enhance their employer brand, attract purpose-driven talent, and improve employee satisfaction and retention. Shutts & Bowen's coordinated efforts across multiple offices demonstrate how structured pro bono programs can create meaningful community impact while reinforcing organizational values. HR vendors should consider how their products and services can support clients in developing similar volunteer and pro bono programs, as such initiatives are increasingly valued by employees and job seekers alike.
Learn more about Shutts & Bowen at https://www.shutts.com.
