Incoming law students got an early start in giving back to Greensboro during the Elon Reaches Out day of service.
The sixth annual service day, held on Aug. 18 and organized by the student-led Pro Bono Board, was part of the new student orientation program, which introduces incoming students to Elon Law.
“As rising lawyers that are going to be serving the community it’s good to get out and actually serve the community and volunteer,” said Joel Salman, L’15.
After an informational session with representatives from the Elon Law Pro Bono Board, groups of students completed community service projects across the city. From walking dogs at SPCA of the Triad to gardening at the Downtown Greenway to organizing and stocking the food pantry at Greensboro Urban Ministries, students were able to volunteer at a service site that meshed with their interests.
“I think it is important that Elon does service projects to get involved in the community and show that Elon does care about the community we work in,” said Sarah Summitt, L’15.
“Elon Reaches Out shows our newest students the importance of service to the community and the role we hold as future lawyers and future leaders,” said Stephen Hegedus, L’13, a member of the Pro Bono Board and a new student orientation leader, who accompanied students to one of the volunteer locations. “It also shows that Elon is not only a committed member but also an active member in Greensboro area.”
Other service projects included, conducting outreach surveys for the Interactive Resource Center; indoor and outdoor maintenance at the Sanctuary House; compiling school supply packets for family literacy classes at Reading Connections, Inc.; helping in the warehouse of the Welfare Reform Liaison Project; packing supply boxes in preparation for the National Multiple Sclerosis Society’s largest annual event; sorting donations, pricing items and helping with Restore Store setup for Habitat for Humanity; doing craft projects with members of the Center for Adult Enrichment; working in the community garden at New Comer’s School; helping the Juvenile Diabetes Research Center of the Triad prepare for their upcoming fundraiser; and assisting with various tasks at the Center for Visual Arts and Covecreek Gardens.
Elon Law Reaches Out followed Elon’s official welcome of the Class of 2015, which took place August 15.
Established in the fall 2011 semester, the student-led Pro Bono Board has increased awareness among the student body about pro bono opportunities throughout the state and has helped to create additional service projects for students.
In the 2011-2012 academic year, Elon Law students reported 16,813 hours of legal service. The Class of 2012 contributed more than 25,000 hours of community and pro bono service during three years of law study. Students serve through pro bono opportunities, such as the Tax Assistance Program, Wills for Heroes and Innocence Project. They also serve through the Humanitarian Immigration Law Clinic, Wills Clinic and other curricular offerings such as Street Law and Public Law & Leadership courses.
By Courtney Roller, L’13