PILI Illinois Forum on Pro Bono

From Crisis Response to Lasting Impact: Building a Resilient Pro Bono Infrastructure

Crises driven by immigration policy changes, public benefits disruptions, and economic instability affecting housing, employment, and family security are certainly not new—but the demand for rapid, coordinated pro bono response continues to grow. How can we meet urgent moments without compromising long-term access to justice?

At PILI’s Illinois Forum on Pro Bono, leaders from corporate legal departments, law firms, legal aid organizations, and law schools will come together to examine how crisis pro bono fits within a sustainable access to justice infrastructure. While crisis response requires speed and flexibility, it depends on strong, well-designed system behind the scenes.

Through cross-sector dialogue, participants will:

• Define the role of crisis pro bono within broader pro bono strategy
• Identify best practices for crisis planning and preparedness and share them with one another
• Strengthen systems for volunteer mobilization and opportunity matching
• Explore effective models for supervision, training, and coordination
• Discuss how to maintain everyday pro bono services during times of disruption

Attendees will also learn about an immediate opportunity to support clients at risk of losing critical public benefits.

This is a complimentary program, and we anticipate participants will receive 2.0 hours of Illinois MCLE Professional Responsibility credit. The program is from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m. with a networking reception for attendees immediately following until 6:00 p.m. It is being offered only in-person – virtual participation is not possible.

Advance registration is required using the form below.

Please contact Senior Managing Attorney Jessica Schneider at 312-832-5125 or by email if you have any questions or would like any additional information.