National Volunteer Week, celebrated this year from April 21-25, 2025, is an opportunity for PILI to recognize and acknowledge our own outstanding and dedicated volunteers. Without our vast network of volunteers throughout Illinois, PILI would not be where it is today. Today, we are spotlighting members of our Alumni Network Leadership Council who stand for justice by using their own time and talents to increase access to justice.

Usama Ibrahim

Kirkland & Ellis LLP

When & why did you become involved with PILI?  As a third-year law student at Northwestern Pritzker School of Law, I was eager to put what I had learned into practice. With whatever free time I had during my final semesters, I sought opportunities to help others.  I learned about PILI through different legal aid opportunities such as Wills for Heroes, Street Law and working with the Carter G. Phillips Center for Supreme Court and Appellate Advocacy. I applied for the Graduate Fellowship Program and shortly afterwards, I was offered—by the incomparable Teresa Sullivan—and immediately accepted the opportunity to join Legal Aid Chicago’s Children and Families Practice Group as a PILI Graduate Fellow. The mentorship from exceptional attorneys at Legal Aid Chicago, like Emma McMullen, Aziza Khatoon, and Myka Held, made me the attorney that I am today. Grateful for their commitment to me, and appreciating the value of PILI, I continued to be involved with PILI as the 2020 Graduate Fellow Alumni Representative for a two-year term before formally joining the Alumni Network Leadership Council as an at-large council member. 

 How does PILI’s 2025 theme, Stand for Justice, resonate with you?  My deep commitment to fairness, truth, and the idea that every person deserves dignity and equality, no matter their background, firmly root my moral compass.  Although it easy to easy to chalk-up the principle of justice to lofty ideals, I was raised to believe that true justice is how we handle everyday moments: speaking up when someone is treated unfairly, listening to voices that are often silenced, and choosing to do what’s right even when it’s difficult.  For me, justice is not finite. The more power and privilege I amass, the more justice I owe to those around me. Simply put, justice means responsibility. It asks me not just to care, but to act—to use whatever voice, privilege, or power I have to help others.

Why do you volunteer? Raised by two educators who committed themselves endlessly to their students, I was taught that privilege requires volunteerism.  Being there for someone—offering clarity where there is confusion, comfort where there is fear, and a sense of connection where there is loneliness—is the core reason why I volunteer.

In what ways has PILI helped support or inspire your commitment to public interest law? The commitment of PILI’s staff to justice is unmatched.  The behind-the-scenes work of coordinating Internships and Fellowships, preparing new and exciting programming, fundraising to advance their mission, and matching hundreds of people annually is always inspiring.  I appreciate the incredible services that organizations, like PILI, provide and the role that I have as an ally and supporter of that work. I am honored to support the heroes at PILI, Legal Aid Chicago, Chicago Volunteer Legal Services, Legal Services NYC, and other organizations by volunteering with them. 

What is something that you have seen PILI do or be a part of that has really resonated with/inspired/excited you?  Participating as a mentor for the PILI Interns and Fellows is always an inspiring experience.  Listening to their concerns, providing advice and counsel, and walking alongside them as they grow from their PILI experiences is, in and of itself, an incredibly rewarding experience.  To empower the next generation of advocates with the knowledge, resources, and skills to advance in their careers, is how I demonstrate my deepest gratitude for the mentors, colleagues, and friends who made the same investments in me. 

Casey Nelson

McGuire Woods LLP

When & why did you become involved with PILI?  I completed my PILI Graduate Fellowship in 2015 with Legal Aid Chicago. I worked in the Children and Families Division helping with orders of protection, divorces and child custody issues for survivors of domestic violence.

Abigail Van Hook

Troutman Pepper Locke LLP

When & why did you become involved with PILI? I was a 2018 PILI Fellow at Land of Lincoln Legal Aid. I had so many legal “firsts” during that summer, including my first hearing! I wanted to continue my involvement when I started working at a firm, so I joined the Alumni Network Leadership Council.   

Why do you volunteer? Access to justice and giving back is a fundamental part of my practice and, I believe, my purpose. It is easy to feel overwhelmed by the need, but I know I am making a difference—even if it’s a small one. I volunteer in a variety of ways in my community and church. I am involved with several organizations, including After School Matters, BWLA, and NPH USA. I am also working to establish the USA presence of an amazing organization in Ghana called the Play N Learn Foundation.    

In what ways has PILI helped support or inspire your commitment to public interest law? Being part of the Alumni Network Leadership Council has been a great way to connect with like-minded people. We all share a dedication to public interest despite having very different backgrounds and workplaces. It is motivating and a joy! 

What is something that you have seen PILI do or be a part of that has really resonated with/inspired/excited you? During my PILI Fellowship, we received training on providing trauma-informed legal advice. Giving sound legal advice is one thing, but educating, advocating, and supporting is what most clients in crisis truly want. I keep this front of mind in all my pro bono cases. Sometimes (read: many times) it is not about the legal answers—it is about making someone feel seen and empowered. 

National Volunteer Week, celebrated this year from April 21 through April 25, 2025, is an opportunity for PILI to recognize and acknowledge our own outstanding and dedicated volunteers. Without our vast network of volunteers throughout Illinois, PILI would not be where it is today. Today, we want to spotlight some of our Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee members who strive to increase equal access to justice by promoting and enhancing pro bono legal services within a specific judicial circuit in Illinois.

Hope Nickel, Yorkville

Twenty-Third Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee

Hope’s commitment to pro bono work was shaped long before she became an attorney. “My undergraduate degree was in child family studies. While in school, I worked at a domestic violence shelter and saw people in really bad situations who could not afford a place to live much less an attorney,” she shares. “It is very important to me that everyone has access to legal assistance.”

Her involvement with PILI’s Twenty-Third Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee has deepened her awareness of unmet legal needs across various areas of law. “Working with the Twenty-Third Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee has made me aware of the need for pro bono legal assistance in different areas of law,” she explains. Hope regularly participates in the Lawyer in the Lobby program, where she directly connects with individuals in need. She says, “It is amazing how appreciative people are when you take the time to listen to them and do what you can to help them. I think as lawyers we sometimes forget how scary and intimidating courts can be for people.” Hope notes that with PIL’s pro bono opportunities,  such as the expungement clinic, that PILI offers training to attorneys who may want to help others but do not have experience in a particular area of law, which is a benefit to both the attorney and the community.

Hope’s commitment to community engagement is both personal and professional. “I think it is important to give back in any way I can,” she says. “I also enjoy the collaborative aspect of working on committees.” When it comes to advancing equal access to justice, Hope believes attorneys play a critical role beyond traditional casework. In addition to participating in legal clinics or taking pro bono cases, Hope believes it is important for attorneys to work to bring attention to the problems with access to the legal system for clients and that there is a need to advocate for changes to the system. Hope’s dedication serves as a powerful reminder of the impact lawyers can have—not only by giving their time, but also by advocating for a more equitable legal system.

Daniel Thies, Champaign

Sixth Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee

The connection between pro bono service and the integrity of our legal system is foundational for Daniel. “The rule of law will preserve a free society only to the extent that the legal system is just and is perceived to be so by all of society,” he shares. Supporting lawyers in offering pro bono services to those in need strengthens the credibility of the legal system and reinforces the foundation of the rule of law.

Through his work with PILI’s Sixth Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee, Daniel has gained a broader and deeper view of the needs within his community. “Through working with other lawyers, I’ve come to a deeper understanding of the range of legal needs in our community, and I have a greater appreciation for how every lawyer can assist in meeting them.” This sense of shared responsibility underscores his perspective on the profession. Volunteering serves as a reminder that the legal profession carries a broader public responsibility. Serving clients is not just about individual representation—it’s also about advancing justice and upholding the rule of law for the greater good.

His commitment to service is also rooted in personal faith and hope. “Human justice is always imperfect. But as a Christian, I have a firm hope and expectation that God’s justice will ultimately make all things right. That hope enables me to continue working to improve the flaws in our current system so that it more closely approximates perfect justice.” When asked about the role lawyers play in today’s efforts to secure equal access to justice, Daniel is clear: “Lawyers are and must always be on the front lines to secure access to justice. The noblest traditions of our profession include public service, commitment to the rule of law, and zeal to ensure competent and ethical representation to our clients. We must continue working within these traditions to pursue equal access to justice for all.”

Julian Valdes, Crete

First Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee

For Julian, joining PILI’s First Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee is an opportunity to use his skills in a way to give back and do good in his community. There is great value in understanding the needs of a community and being able to contribute.

Through his involvement, Julian has gained insight into the very real and often overlooked barriers that self-represented litigants (SRLs) face in the 1st Circuit. “It’s no secret that the First Circuit has many areas that are/could be considered legal deserts,” he explains. This experience has helped Julian better understand the practical difficulties people face—both in accessing self-help resources and in finding legal representation.

Volunteering has also served as an important reminder of what it means to practice law. “Whether through pro bono representation or service on volunteer committees, I feel that volunteering helps remind attorneys that there is more to the practice of law than billable hours,” he reflects. Despite the demands of the profession, Julian remains deeply committed to staying engaged in his community. Julian believes that having a sense of community is vital—especially if you’re living somewhere you didn’t grow up. While sometimes it may not feel like enough, Julian is proud to know that his efforts, however small, have made a positive difference.

When asked about the role of lawyers in advancing access to justice, Julian emphasizes the unique value of legal guidance. “Someone can look up what a motion is, but it is harder to research and understand the need to file a motion and what a motion should contain,” he says. And for those who may not have the time for full representation, he encourages exploring other impactful options: “There is still great value in volunteering other services, such as legal coaching and guidance through programs like Lawyer in the Library.”

National Volunteer Week, celebrated this year from April 21-25, 2025, is an opportunity for PILI to recognize and acknowledge our own outstanding and dedicated volunteers. Without our vast network of volunteers throughout Illinois, PILI would not be where it is today. Today, we are spotlighting members of our Young Professionals Board who stand for justice by using their own time and talents to increase access to justice.

Brandon Knop

Molson Coors

When & why did you become involved with PILI? I started my involvement with PILI as a PILI Graduate Fellow in the summer of 2017, working with LAF (now Legal Aid Chicago). I loved the opportunity to support a local legal non-profit organization and got hands-on experience in new areas of the law, helping those in the community with housing concerns who may not otherwise be able to obtain legal counsel. Following my fellowship, I joined the PILI Young Professionals Board in 2019 and currently serve as the Vice Chair of the YPB. 

How does PILI’s 2025 theme, Stand for Justice, resonate with you? PILI’s Stand for Justice theme for this year resonates with me because it aligns perfectly with where PILI excels—making connections between different aspects of our community to ensure that everyone has access to justice. Importantly, Standing for Justice doesn’t end at ensuring that it is merely available. When we Stand for Justice, we also need to put in the work, actively serving the legal community and encouraging others to take opportunities to join the team in support. The 2025 theme encapsulates these concepts perfectly. 

Why do you volunteer? Do you volunteer with organizations other than PILI? In my career, I’ve been fortunate enough to receive mentorship, guidance, and advice from others in the legal community that have helped me become the attorney that I am today. I think it’s important for all of us to do what we can to support our communities and give back in our own way. Everyone has something they can offer others, and as an attorney, we have specialized skills and knowledge that can assist others in many of life’s important moments. In addition to PILI, this year I have been active in supporting Legal Prep Charter Academy’s mock trial program and am involved in efforts to grow my workplace’s pro bono impact, in partnership with our outside counsel and community organizations. 

 In what ways has PILI helped support or inspire your commitment to public interest law? PILI is a unique non-profit organization in that it seeks to strengthen the connections that foster continued service over the long term. PILI’s impact can be felt not only through the individuals that find access to justice through its programs and partnerships, but also through the development of a culture of service within the legal community. Working with PILI provides an opportunity to multiply the good we can do not only as we serve others, but by inspiring others to serve in the legal community as well. This means more impact for our state! 

What is something that you have seen PILI do or be a part of that has really resonated with/inspired/excited you? PILI’s Internship and f]Fellowship Programs were my introduction to PILI and remain one of my favorite PILI programs today. It’s vital to instill in recent law school graduates a sense of responsibility to their communities and to promote justice, and these programs are an extraordinary pipeline for the future leaders and participants in PILI’s and its partner’s clinics, pro bono opportunities, and leadership entities. There’s no better way to introduce folks to pro bono work than to let them experience firsthand how much they can do for others, which will hopefully inspire them to continue a pro bono journey of their own throughout their careers. 

Cara Lawson

Steptoe LLP

When & why did you become involved with PILI?  I joined PILI’s Young Professionals Board in 2022 because I wanted to take a more active role in contributing to PILI’s programs, as well as the legal aid organizations that PILI supports. 

How does PILI’s 2025 theme, Stand for Justice, resonate with you?  Standing for justice means taking an active role in creating a justice system that can be accessible to everyone in our community and, particularly, to the most marginalized and vulnerable members within it. 

Why do you volunteer? Do you volunteer with organizations other than PILI? Volunteering is a concrete way that I can make an impact in my community. I am also a member of the Young Professionals Board of the Chicago Bar Foundation. 

In what ways has PILI helped support or inspire your commitment to public interest law? PILI has expanded my knowledge of the many different avenues available to promote access to justice. 

What is something that you have seen PILI do or be a part of that has really resonated with/inspired/excited you? I am very inspired by the reach and participation of PILI’s alumni network.  That so many alumni continue to volunteer is a testament to the commitment to service that PILI instills in its interns and fellows. 

Kaytee Okon

Littler Mendelson P.C.

When & why did you become involved with PILI? I became involved in PILI in late 2022 through former YPB chair Corey Biller; when the opportunity arose, I couldn’t resist. I first became aware of PILI and its mission in law school and was looking for a way to make a real difference in the community, so joining PILI felt like the perfect fit.

How does PILI’s 2025 theme, Stand for Justice, resonate with you? Prior to attending law school, I worked as a law clerk for the State’s Attorney and saw firsthand the inequities in the legal system, especially when it came to those individuals who were unable to afford attorneys.

Why do you volunteer? Do you volunteer with organizations other than PILI? I volunteer because it allows me to give back to my community, support causes I care about and use my skills to make a positive difference. In addition to my work with PILI, I also act as a mentor for high school students interested in joining the legal field after graduation.

In what ways has PILI helped support or inspire your commitment to public interest law? Through PILI, I have had access to valuable resources, mentorship, and a network of like-minded professionals who are dedicated to making a difference.

What is something that you have seen PILI do or be a part of that has really resonated with/inspired/excited you? Arcade for Legal Aid, of course! Seeing the positive changes PILI brings to the community – and the pure excitement for public interest – is incredibly motivating and reinforces why I do what I do. It is exciting to be a part of something that truly makes a difference.

National Volunteer Week, celebrated this year from April 21 through April 25, 2025 , is an opportunity for PILI to recognize and acknowledge our own outstanding and dedicated volunteers. Without our vast network of volunteers throughout Illinois, PILI would not be where it is today. Today, we want to spotlight some of our dedicated pro bono volunteers who stand for justice by using their own time and talents to increase access to justice through PILI’s pro bono opportunities.

Dillon Borri

MillerKing LLC  
Alton

For Dillon, the inspiration to begin doing pro bono work was simple but powerful: giving back. Motivated by a desire to support people who can’t afford an attorney, Dillon views his role as not just a lawyer, but as a community member committed to uplifting others through access to justice. Through his volunteer work with PILI’s Conflict of Interest Pro Bono Referral Panel, Dillon hopes to provide meaningful support and guidance to those facing legal challenges without the resources to navigate them alone. This panel provides a referral source for participating legal aid agencies to send potential clients who have been denied service due to a conflict of interest. “I hope to better position people who are in need of help and guidance,” he says, emphasizing how even small acts of service can lead to big changes in someone’s life.

One of the most rewarding aspects of his volunteer experience has been witnessing the gratitude of the people he helps. “There is always a feeling of fulfillment when people are grateful for your services,” Dillon reflects. That sense of connection and impact continues to fuel his dedication. Equal access to justice is a personal issue for Dillon. He knows firsthand how many people in his own community could not afford legal representation. “Providing them with access to legal expertise and guidance,” he says, “ultimately benefits our communities as a whole.”

To attorneys hesitant about starting pro bono work, Dillon offers a simple, practical challenge, for volunteers to try handling one case a quarter. Dillion is sure volunteers will see how rewarding it can be. With his grounded approach and passion for service, Dillon is a reminder that meaningful impact often starts with just one case—and one person willing to help.

Kaylan Huber

Huber & Mudd, LLC
Danville

Kaylan is a dedicated volunteer, often working on Illinois Armed Forces Legal Aid Network (IL-AFLAN) cases. For her, pro bono work isn’t just a professional responsibility—it’s a chance to change lives. Among her most rewarding experiences as a volunteer attorney have been pro bono adoptions. “Adoptions are amazing experiences regardless of if you are getting paid or not,” Kaylan shares. “Being able to provide permanency and a sense of completeness to families is pretty awesome.”

That sense of purpose fuels her dedication to equal access to justice. Kaylan strongly believes that everyone deserves the opportunity to be heard, regardless of income. Kaylan believes that someone’s lack of income does not mean that their claims are not valid, that their arguments are not worth hearing, or that their losses—whether monetary or otherwise—matter less. As an attorney, she sees providing pro bono services as a civic duty and a way to support the communities to which she belongs.

When speaking to fellow attorneys who haven’t yet taken the leap into pro bono work, Kaylan is quick to address a common misconception: the time commitment. “All it takes is reaching out and asking if someone needs help,” she says. “There is such a wide array of legal matters that someone can tackle in the pro bono realm. I think the first thing someone should do is to call our partners like the Public Interest Law Initiative and Land of Lincoln Legal Aid to see what needs there are and choose one that fits your schedule, your practice area, and your interests.”

Through her work, Kaylan demonstrates how even a small gesture of legal support can create life-changing outcomes—and how pro bono service strengthens not only individuals, but entire communities.

Karen Kapela

State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance
Bloomington

For Karen, a regular volunteer on Illinois Free Legal Answers, pro bono work has always been a part of her legal journey, but it was the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic that reignited her commitment in a powerful new way. With traditional, in-person volunteer opportunities temporarily on hold, a simple internal email during Pro Bono Week prompted her to set a new goal: to answer one legal question a day for a year on Illinois Free Legal Answers. And she has stuck with it.

Karen’s journey in public interest law actually began during law school, when she took part in the Civil Practice Clinic—providing free legal assistance to individuals who couldn’t otherwise afford an attorney. Guided by a professor who deeply valued pro bono work, Karen was inspired to carry that spirit into her own career. Her goal through volunteering is simple yet powerful: to help people when they need it most. Whether it’s answering a question online or offering a few words of reassurance, Karen strives to ensure people feel seen, heard, and supported during difficult times. “I would love for one day to open the site and have no question waiting to be answered,” she says with hope.

One of her most memorable experiences came from an ongoing exchange with a client on the platform—something not typical for Illinois Free Legal Answers. After several messages back and forth, the client returned to share the outcome of her hearing. That moment of connection and impact was deeply rewarding for Karen and reinforced the importance of her efforts.

Equal access to justice is personal for Karen. “We all face challenges in life and have moments when we need help,” she reflects. “I like that I’m giving back to others, just like others did for me.” To those who feel unsure about starting pro bono work, Karen offers encouraging advice: “At first, I was worried about helping people with really personal issues but realized we all have life experiences, and I would encourage someone to just try to answer one question, just one and then another.”

National Volunteer Week, celebrated this year from April 21-25, 2025, is an opportunity for PILI to recognize and acknowledge our own outstanding and dedicated volunteers. Without our vast network of volunteers throughout Illinois, PILI would not be where it is today. Today, we are spotlighting members of our Board of Directors who stand for justice by using their own time and talents to increase access to justice.

Mark O’Meara

Chapman and Cutler LLP

When & why did you become involved with PILI? I joined the PILI Board when I was elected as Chapman and Cutler’s pro bono partner.  Chapman and Cutler is a longtime supporter of PILI and wants to ensure that we continue our partnership with PILI by, among other things, being actively involved at the board level.

How does PILI’s 2025 theme, Stand for Justice, resonate with you?  The theme resonates with me as a reinforcement of the importance of ensuring everyone has access to the legal system.

Why do you volunteer? It is important to be able to give back.  Our family volunteers with other organizations and it is a great opportunity to spend time with my family while instilling in our children the values of putting other needs ahead of theirs.

In what ways has PILI helped support or inspire your commitment to public interest law?  PILI has exposed me to a broader range of public interest law and the number of organizations dedicated to providing access to justice in Illinois.  I have also interacted with some very talented attorneys that have dedicated their careers to public interest law.

What is something that you have seen PILI do or be a part of that has really resonated with/inspired/excited you?   The most exciting thing that I have seen since being a part of PILI is how it has grown from being a Chicagoland organization to having a presence throughout the state.

Hari Santhanam

Perkins Coie

When & why did you become involved with PILI?  I became involved with PILI right out of law school back in 2008. I was fortunate that the law firm I joined at the time was willing to sponsor a PILI Fellowship for me at the DePaul Asylum & Immigration Law Clinic. I learned so much about immigration law during that summer, which I have continued to apply along the years in pro bono matters. This past year, I joined the PILI Board, and I hope to both pay back and pay forward my experience as a PILI Alum.

How does PILI’s 2025 theme, Stand for Justice, resonate with you? Justice to me is grounded in access to the legal system. The system, despite its flaws, generally works for those who have the privilege of being represented by a lawyer who can help them navigate it. Unfortunately, the system could do far better in providing access. I believe it is incumbent on the legal profession to ensure that the underprivileged have access to legal representation.

Why do you volunteer? I volunteer because I see a critical need for legal representation among the underrepresented. In many areas like immigration, I know firsthand that the mere fact that an individual is being represented by a lawyer can make a difference. Over the years, I’ve volunteered or partnered with a number of organizations but two that stand out for me are the National Immigrant Justice Center and my alma matter, Northwestern University.

In what ways has PILI helped support or inspire your commitment to public interest law?  My PILI Fellowship provided me with my first experience and foundation for doing pro bono legal work. I’ve carried that experience with me and built on it over the years as I have handled pro bono immigration matters ranging from civil suits to asylum appeals. I’d say PILI also has inspired me to tackle causes that resonate with me. For example, for the better part of my legal career, I’ve been trying to change the law across the country as it relates to a criminal defendant’s right to confront forensic lab analysts under the Confrontation Clause of the Sixth Amendment. I’ve litigated several appeals on that issue in Alaska, Arizona, Illinois, and the Seventh Circuit with varying success. But last year I finally got a chance to make a lasting, nationwide difference in Smith v. Arizona, which I argued before the U.S. Supreme Court and won 9-0.

What is something that you have seen PILI do or be a part of that has really resonated with/inspired/excited you? I am proud that PILI’s central mission is to advance equal access to justice. And I love that PILI manages to do that with a broad reach and by partnering with numerous organizations across the state.

Angel Wawrzyniak

Constant, Wawrzynek & Grove LLC

When & why did you become involved with PILI? My first involvement with PILI was being appointed as Chair when the Fifth Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee was created. In 2023, I was elected to serve on the PILI Board of Directors.

How does PILI’s 2025 theme, Stand for Justice, resonate with you? Attorneys are uniquely qualified to help society navigate tumultuous times. It is our ethical duty to uphold the rule of law, defend the rights of the people, and ensure that all people have access to the court system.

Why do you volunteer? I volunteer because I can. And if everyone who can help did, the world would be a much better place. Not a one of us can help everyone or solve every problem; but together we can come close.

In what ways has PILI helped support or inspire your commitment to public interest law? My involvement with the Pro Bono Committee over the years, and now my involvement on the PILI Board, has shined a light on the unmet legal need, and thus encouraged me to take on more pro bono and low bono clients. 

What is something that you have seen PILI do or be a part of that has really resonated with/inspired/excited you? One of my favorite projects that the Pro Bono Committees have been involved with has been the expungement clinics and name change clinics. Being able to spend a day and help multiple people address an issue that will impact their entire lives (clearing their record or correcting their legal name), is incredibly rewarding.