Originally Posted in the DC Social Justice Transformation Network Newsletter 

Authored by Chris Marin, Program Director, Washington Council of Lawyers 

Throughout my life, I have cultivated a love and passion for making resources more accessible to all. In a world that moves so quickly, it can be hard to keep up and I saw what it looked like first hand when folks experienced that struggle. Through my education I learned about the systems that determine the fate of many, economic, legal, political, and more. After graduating from law school, I felt called to support as many people in the public interest legal community as possible. 

I was lucky enough to find Washington Council of Lawyers and join their team.  As the program director of the public interest and pro bono bar association in DC, I have the immense privilege of working directly with both public interest attorneys and attorneys from all sectors that keep pro bono at the heart of their practice. In my role, I am tasked with creating events that deliver on resources, spark important conversations, and bring together members of the community all to advance access to justice for our neighbors, no matter the area of law they need support. 

Since joining the organization in 2022, I have had the opportunity to be a part of so much growth both within my organization and within the community at large. We are seeing early career attorneys find their voice both to advocate for their clients and to access more of what they need. Folks throughout their careers and across sectors are finding creative, community-driven ways to navigate and weather the current political and legal landscape on top of everything they were already asked to accomplish. 

This is where my work intersects seamlessly with the DC Social Justice Transformation Network (the Network) and part of the reason I joined the Network Action Team (NAT). The Network Convenings serves as a hub in the community where I am able to meet and learn from folks I wouldn’t have gotten the chance to meet otherwise. Their perspectives and experiences shape my understanding of what DC residents need from legal and social services as well as what those service professionals need to amplify their work and their impact. This guidance has inspired me to revamp our Litigation Skills Series to be the new Lawyering Skills Series! This new version looks at lawyers and legal support more holistically by including broader professional strategies for success and welcoming more members of the advocacy team, such as paralegals and intake specialists. As a NAT member, I have the privilege of guiding our community to be more inclusive, create stronger resources, and to be able to rely more consistently and effectively on one another. 

One way we showcase these incredible accomplishments is during DC Pro Bono Week! Each year, in line with the ABA National Celebration, Washington Council of Lawyers organizes informational sessions, volunteer opportunities, and community building events with the support of our community partners! This year, there are over 20 events where you can learn more about family, public benefits, education law, veterans support, and more including opportunities to volunteer and directly serve those communities! Don’t miss out, check out the DC Pro Bono Week Hub for the full Schedule of Events, Affiliated Events, and Volunteer Opportunities!