To achieve this, we have ensured that the time dedicated by employees is facilitated by the Firm’s leadership, something which we believe is essential to this type of initiative. We firmly believe that the best corporate responsibility practices for companies should reflect that organisation’s wider business strategy and area of expertise, for the simple reason that being a responsible business involves much more than making financial contributions.
“SINCE OUR PARTNERSHIP WITH ASHOKA BEGAN IN 2013, 77 OF OUR LAWYERS HAVE DEDICATED OVER 800 HOURS OF PRO BONO SUPPORT TO 12 OF ASHOKA FELLOW ORGANISATIONS INCLUDING MYMIND, THE CODERDOJO FOUNDATION, FUTURE VOICES IRELAND AND GROW IT YOURSELF, TO NAME A FEW.”
Specific projects we have been involved in to date include supporting Future Voices Ireland, who are committed to empowering and supporting young people coming from the most disadvantaged communities across Ireland, by providing them with legal counsel on the incorporation of their organisation. We have also advised Grow it Yourself (GIY), which is a global movement of people who grow their own food at home, school, work and in the community. Our legal work is varied, ranging from the drafting and updating of corporate constitutions, assisting social enterprises with data protection and intellectual property issues, to the incorporation of enterprises as a legal entities. Companies can make a real difference to non-profits and social causes by realising that time and expertise are as much of an asset to contribute as money. Making pro bono a part of how companies do business doesn’t just benefit organisations that need support, it also inspires and engages employees in a meaningful way.
“At A&L Goodbody, we have seen first-hand greater employee engagement and satisfaction as a result of our pro bono programme and work with Ashoka. Our employees are proud to say that in addition to their day-to-day work, they have been able to support some of Ireland’s most impactful social entrepreneurs.” It is this talent that, if harnessed, will help to address the country’s most pressing social challenges and we will continue to play a central role in supporting their continued growth and success.
Sinéad Smith is Corporate Responsibility Manager at A&L Goodbody in Dublin.
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