Strong showing of pro bono supporters, in spite of down economy Every spring, the Ball is the main fundraiser for MVL, a nonprofit agency
which pairs volunteer attorneys with people who otherwise could not access legal services due to financial circumstances. “We are really proud of all our peers in the legal community for supporting MVL and the important legal services they offer,” said John T. Baker, co-chair of the BBB committee and president-elect of the Denver Bar Association. “We are humbled by the generosity of our loyal patrons and all the individuals who donated.” The Ball celebrates the past year of all pro bono service by lawyers and legal professionals in Denver, Arapahoe, Jefferson, Douglas, Elbert, Adams/Broomfield and Gilpin counties. Three special honorees were recognized for their outstanding commitment to ongoing pro bono service. Frances Fontana, Bryon Large and Gerry Hernandez were spotlighted in a ceremony for their dedication to making sure that the poor have access to justice. In addition, leaders recognized the lifelong pro bono work of the late Barbara Quade of Windsor, Colo., 1950-1998. Quade’s tribute honored the renowned family law expert, an alumni of the University of Denver’s Sturm College of Law and mentor to many. The MVL Board also gave special recognition to MVL staff member Patricia Trujillo for 20 years of service. Over the years and through changing times, Trujillo has helped connect thousands of clients to volunteer attorneys who assist them with their legal issues. Volunteer attorneys from Denver, Jefferson, Arapahoe, Adams/Broomfield and Douglas/Elbert and Gilpin counties took on more MVL cases for people in poverty in 2008, serving 2,058 clients, up from 1,890 clients served in 2007.
“This is our special time each year to honor and celebrate those who work and contribute toward pro bono legal services in the region,” said Dianne Van Voorhees, executive director of MVL. “We look forward to a great year ahead, thanks to the generosity of the Denver legal community.”