New York, NY, November 09, 2011 --
Two law firms - Holland & Knight LLP and Jackson Lewis LLP - are recipients of the 2011 Cornerstone Awards, which recognize outstanding pro bono legal services to nonprofit groups that are improving quality of life for low-income New Yorkers. Lawyers Alliance for New York presents these awards annually to recognize top pro bono work by business and transactional lawyers. In addition, Lawyers Alliance is bestowing 2011 Cornerstone Awards to nine individual attorneys, selected from almost 1,500 attorneys in Lawyers Alliance's volunteer network.

Lawyers Alliance will present these awards at a ceremony on November 15, 2011, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Credit Suisse, One Madison Avenue in New York City.

"This year's honorees have devoted substantial time and legal expertise, far above and beyond the expected bounds of the pro bono relationship, to enable nonprofit organizations to provide vital programs and services during difficult financial times," said Thomas H. Kennedy, Chair of the Board of Directors of Lawyers Alliance.

Lawyers Alliance is the leading provider of business and transactional legal services for nonprofit organizations that are improving quality of life in New York City neighborhoods.

This year's institutional Cornerstone awardees are:

Holland & Knight LLP: This global law firm has demonstrated its deep community commitment by steadily handling a wide array of sophisticated business and transactional law matters, including more than 35 pro bono projects for Lawyers Alliance clients since 2001. For example, corporate attorneys assisted the Nonprofit Coordinating Committee of New York with the creation of a Nonprofit Outsourcing Clearinghouse; real estate attorneys advised several housing, economic development and educational organizations on office leases and affordable housing finance projects; and intellectual property lawyers counseled multiple nonprofit organizations about copyright issues and licensing agreements.

Jackson Lewis LLP: This leading workplace law firm is being honored for its high standard of service and enthusiasm when assisting nonprofit organizations on a pro bono basis. Since the firm began partnering with Lawyers Alliance on employment law matters just three years ago, it has assisted 18 different Lawyers Alliance clients, including Head Start programs, charter schools, settlement houses, senior centers, large social service agencies, and other community organizations. With pro bono legal guidance related to hiring, supervision, termination and other worker issues, these organizations are better able to devote their limited financial and human resources to improving the quality of life in New York City neighborhoods.

"The institutional Cornerstone Awards reflect significant breadth and depth of business and transactional law pro bono. Holland & Knight and Jackson Lewis have shown unwavering commitment to these nonprofit clients," said Sean Delany, Executive Director of Lawyers Alliance.

This year's individual Cornerstone awardees are:

Terri L. Chase, Jones Day: For her trusted employment law advice and counsel, which strengthened five different community-based organizations serving New Yorkers of all ages.

Junaid H. Chida and George M. Williams jr, Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP: For their significant partner leadership that helped five low-income federal credit unions to receive a total of more than $4 million in funding through the Community Development Capital Initiative.

Jack P. Flanagan, Paul Hastings LLP: For his sophisticated legal assistance with commercial real estate matters that helped six nonprofit organizations with leasing, real estate financing, and other evolving needs.

Craig A. Katerberg, Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP: For making pro bono a key component of his legal career from the start and providing strategic corporate law assistance that is helping six youth and other nonprofit organizations thrive.

Stephen H. Kinney, Jr., Morgan, Lewis & Bockius LLP: For leading and coordinating his firm's ongoing volunteer counsel services for The Regional Emergency Medical Services Council of New York City, an attorney-client relationship that he has spearheaded since 1997.

Christine L. Roch, Pillsbury Winthrop Shaw Pittman LLP (formerly of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP): For her dedicated real estate law guidance, which furthers the economic development and affordable housing work of Community Access, United Community Centers, and YM and YWHA of Washington Heights and Inwood.

Louis Vlahos, Farrell Fritz, P.C.: For sharing his own tax and corporate law expertise and serving as an outstanding pro bono contact for colleagues and clients at his firm, thereby ensuring high-quality and coordinated pro bono services to 11 dynamic nonprofit clients seeking legal assistance through Lawyers Alliance.

Matthew B. Zisk, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP: For repeatedly providing valuable intellectual property counsel to protect the programs and services of a range of nonprofit clients, including those that assist young children, support financial security and adult literacy, and encourage commercial activity in low-income neighborhoods.

"Lawyers Alliance for New York is proud to honor the individual recipients of the 2011 Cornerstone Awards for their superlative commitment to organizations that serve the neediest New Yorkers," said Elizabeth Guggenheimer, Deputy Executive Director of Lawyers Alliance.

By connecting lawyers, nonprofits, and communities, Lawyers Alliance helps nonprofits to develop affordable housing, stimulate economic development, promote community arts, and operate and advocate for vital programs for children and young people, the elderly, and other low-income New Yorkers. During the past year, the 14 staff attorneys at Lawyers Alliance worked with 1,484 volunteer attorneys from the City's finest law firms and corporate legal departments to represent 625 nonprofit clients on 1,014 matters.

Contact:
Emily Crossan, Lawyers Alliance for New York: ecrossan@lawyersalliance.org or 212-219-1800

New York, NY, May 16, 2011 --
On May 18, 2011, more than 450 leaders from the legal, financial, and nonprofit sectors are expected to gather at Gotham Hall in Manhattan for Lawyers Alliance’s 2011 Business Law & Leadership Gala, celebrating the partnership between lawyers and nonprofits and their power to transform New York City communities.

This year’s distinguished honorees are:

Louise M. Parent, Executive Vice President and General Counsel, American Express Company. American Express recognizes the importance of good corporate citizenship and seeks to be a good corporate citizen in the communities in which it conducts business. To support this objective, American Express encourages its employees to perform volunteer services. Under Ms. Parent’s leadership, and in support of the company’s Blue Box value of Good Citizenship, it is the policy of the American Express General Counsel’s Office to encourage the pro bono activities of its lawyers, legal managers and support staff. In April 2005, the General Counsel’s Office began a formalized pro bono program by creating a Pro Bono Committee dedicated to facilitating pro bono services. Since then, members of the General Counsel's Office have partnered with Lawyers Alliance and other organizations to provide meaningful pro bono opportunities for employees and positively impact neighborhoods in New York City and beyond.

Deirdre Stanley, Executive Vice President and General Counsel, Thomson Reuters. At Thomson Reuters, Ms. Stanley has made commitment to community service a priority. She supports local nonprofit causes including the Girl Scouts Council of Greater New York, and global pro bono legal efforts such as the Thomson Reuters Foundation’s TrustLaw Connect. TrustLaw Connect is a free, online platform launched to help nongovernmental organizations (“NGOs”) around the world access legal assistance from private sector lawyers seeking to engage in high impact pro bono work. It also provides news and information on anti-corruption issues, good governance, and women’s rights. TrustLaw offers lawyers and NGOs an easy way to connect with other NGOs, government agencies, and social entrepreneurs. Services include: legal research and drafting documents, advice on intellectual property, governance structures, partnership arrangements, contracts and funding arrangements, and counsel on real estate, employment, and changes in law. More than 100 law firms and corporate legal departments worldwide are currently TrustLaw members, including 23 within Lawyers Alliance’s volunteer network.

Clifford N. Rosenthal, President and CEO, the National Federation of Community Development Credit Unions. Established in 1974 by a coalition of credit union leaders dedicated to revitalizing low-income communities, the Federation advocates for and provides financial, technical, and human resources to community development credit unions (“CDCUs”). In the mid-1980s, Mr. Rosenthal called for the creation of a National Neighborhood Banking Corporation, which was a pivotal first step in a campaign that ultimately resulted in the 1994 establishment of the U.S. Treasury Department’s Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFI) Fund. In 2009 and 2010, the Federation and its allies in the CDFI movement worked with the U.S. Department of Treasury to create the Community Development Capital Initiative (CDCI) to invest capital in financial institutions serving low-income communities. The Federation partnered with Lawyers Alliance to pair 45 CDCUs with pro bono counsel from 15 law firms, which enabled these institutions to close on approximately $70 million in CDCI loans.

Jon Eric Hilsenrath, Chief Economic Correspondent, The Wall Street Journal, will serve as Master of Ceremonies. The event will provide an overview on Lawyers Alliance’s scope of services for New York nonprofits and will feature several successful nonprofit client projects from the past year, along with the outstanding pro bono attorneys who assisted them.

According to Lawyers Alliance Board Chair Thomas H. Kennedy, “No other event in New York City draws together a more extraordinary mix of nonprofit leaders and business and transactional lawyers. Lawyers Alliance is now serving more nonprofit organizations, on more legal projects, with the assistance of more pro bono attorneys than ever before. I am thrilled to participate in this year’s event, as I deeply value the talents and expertise of the Lawyers Alliance staff and its committed volunteer network as well as the leadership and impact of this year’s honorees.”

For event details, visit www.lawyersalliance.org/gala.php

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Lawyers Alliance for New York is the leading provider of business and transactional legal services for nonprofit organizations that are improving the quality of life in New York City neighborhoods. Our network of pro bono lawyers from law firms and corporations and staff of experienced attorneys work together, delivering expert corporate, tax, real estate, employment, and other legal services to community organizations. By connecting lawyers, nonprofits, and communities, we help nonprofits to develop affordable housing, stimulate economic development, and operate vital programs for children and young people, the elderly, recent immigrants, and other low-income New Yorkers. Each year, Lawyers Alliance's 14 staff attorneys and more than 1,400 volunteer attorneys serve more than 600 clients on more than 1,000 different legal matters. In addition, Lawyers Alliance provides a broad range of educational opportunities for nonprofit Board members and managers, including workshops and webinars, printed publications, legal alerts, and other email or web-based resources.

Contact: Emily Crossan, Lawyers Alliance for New York, 212-219-1800 x233, ecrossan@lawyersalliance.org

New York, NY, October 27, 2010 --
Two global law firms – Linklaters LLP and Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP – are recipients of the 2010 Cornerstone Awards, which recognize outstanding pro bono legal services to nonprofit groups that are improving quality of life for low-income and disadvantaged New Yorkers. Lawyers Alliance for New York presents these awards annually to recognize top pro bono work by business and transactional lawyers. In addition, Lawyers Alliance is bestowing 2010 Cornerstone Awards to two attorney teams and seven individual attorneys, selected from more than 1400 attorneys in Lawyers Alliance’s volunteer network.

Lawyers Alliance will present these awards at a ceremony on October 27, 2010, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Pfizer Inc, 150 East 42nd Street in New York City.

“This year’s honorees devoted substantial time, energy and expertise to nonprofit organizations that are having a profound and positive impact during challenging economic times,” said Tom Kennedy, Vice Chair of the Board of Directors of Lawyers Alliance.

Lawyers Alliance is the leading provider of business and transactional legal services for nonprofit organizations that are improving quality of life in New York neighborhoods.

This year’s institutional Cornerstone awardees are:

Linklaters LLP: For serving as a frontrunner in the community investment and economic development arena. Linklaters has greatly increased the volume and impact of its pro bono work though Lawyers Alliance, handling 25 active legal matters during the past year. This pro bono work is enabling nonprofit organizations to bring much needed capital, credit and jobs to low-income communities throughout New York City.

Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP: For exemplary and longstanding pro bono leadership, strengthening nonprofits that serve New Yorkers of all ages. During the past 25 years, more than 60 Lawyers Alliance nonprofit clients have benefited from Weil attorneys’ legal expertise on more than 80 different pro bono projects. Since 1999, Weil also has sponsored a law firm associate to work full time at Lawyers Alliance on a four-month externship.

“The institutional Cornerstone Awards reflect significant breadth and depth of business and transactional law pro bono. Linklaters and Weil have raised the bar through their extraordinary commitment,” said Sean Delany, Executive Director of Lawyers Alliance.

This year’s individual Cornerstone awardees are:

Nia M. Brown, DLA Piper LLP (US): For using her corporate law expertise to enhance the operations and governance of Bedford-Stuyvesant Early Childhood Development Center and Civic Association Serving Harlems.

Jason E. Burritt, Seyfarth Shaw LLP: For counseling eight nonprofit clients on a range of business immigration law and labor issues, helping them to have a strong workforce.

Peter DiConza, Citigroup (formerly of Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP): For his strategic real estate counsel, enabling affordable housing, economic development and community organizations to expand their programs.

Andrés V. Gil, Ron M. Aizen and Legal Team, Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP: For providing ongoing volunteer general counsel services to Groundswell Community Mural Project, furthering its efforts to engage underserved youth in public art projects throughout the City.

Scott A. Gold, Schulte Roth & Zabel LLP: For more than a decade of pro bono employment law services, advising nonprofits that help low-income individuals to buy their first homes, stimulate economic development, and support community centers.

Matthew John Gurch, White & Case LLP: For providing corporate law counsel to Sunnyside Community Services in connection with subcontractor case management agreements, enabling the organization to collaborate and continue vital elder services.

Jessica Hoppe, Elizabeth S. Mandell and Legal Team, Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP: For assisting Coney Island Prep and other charter schools with bylaws, tax-exemption filings, a lease, and personnel policies, readying them to open their doors to hundreds of public school students.

Eric K. Moser, Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy LLP: For sharing his legal expertise in the area of contracts and financing transactions with East River Development Alliance, furthering its financial fitness, jobs, and other programs for public housing residents in Long Island City.

Edward A. Pisacreta, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital (formerly of Holland & Knight LLP): For sharing his intellectual property law wisdom with NPower, which connects nonprofits to affordable information technology, enabling NPower to offer a software product that helps nonprofits manage grants.

“Lawyers Alliance for New York applauds the individual recipients of the 2010 Cornerstone Awards for their commitment to dynamic organizations that serve New York residents most in need,” said Elizabeth Guggenheimer, Deputy Executive Director of Lawyers Alliance.

By connecting lawyers, nonprofits, and communities, Lawyers Alliance helps nonprofits to develop affordable housing, stimulate economic development, and operate vital programs for children and young people, the elderly, recent immigrants, and other low-income New Yorkers. During the past year, the 14 staff attorneys at Lawyers Alliance worked with 1,400 volunteer attorneys from more than 100 law firms and corporate legal departments to represent 592 nonprofit clients on 1,014 matters.

Contact: Agnes Cao, Berry & Company Public Relations: acao@berrypr.com or call 212-253-8881.

New York, NY, October 01, 2010 --
Lawyers Alliance for New York and its network of volunteer firms have taken an active role in the landmark U.S. Treasury Department CDFI Fund program that will help improve the economic prospects of numerous communities. During September 2010 dozens of community development financial institutions (CDFIs) around the country closed their long-term, low-interest secondary capital loans. The loans were a result of awards made by the CDFI Fund totaling $104.9 million to 180 CDFIs around the country, including 19 awards totaling $12.4 million to CDFIs based in New York State. Several Lawyers Alliance clients were among the recipients. This welcome infusion of capital goes to loan funds that finance small businesses, supportive and affordable housing, health care facilities, and nonprofit organizations, as well as community development credit unions serving individuals and small businesses.

Lawyers Alliance worked with the National Federation of Community Development Credit Unions to help pair 45 of the grant recipients in New York and nationwide with pro bono counsel from fifteen law firms, including Brown McCarroll, LLP; Brownstein Hyatt Farber Schreck, LLP; Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP; DLA Piper LLP; Duane Morris LLP; Kilpatrick Stockton LLP; Linklaters LLP; Mayer Brown LLP; Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP; Proskauer Rose LLP; Shearman & Sterling LLP; Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP; Stroock & Stroock & Lavan LLP; Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP; and White & Case LLP. Legal assistance included due diligence, negotiation, and documentation for the financing.

Says Executive Director Sean Delany, “We believe we do meaningful work here at Lawyers Alliance, but seldom are the fruits of our efforts so immediate and so satisfying. The National Federation is to be commended for spearheading this initiative, and we are proud to have played a vital part in it.”

The following New York CDCUs received legal help through Lawyers Alliance: Bethex Federal Credit Union, Brooklyn Cooperative Federal Credit Union, Buffalo Cooperative Federal Credit Union, Fidelis Federal Credit Union, Lower East Side People's Federal Credit Union, Neighborhood Trust Federal Credit Union, Southern Chautauqua Federal Credit Union, Union Settlement Federal Credit Union, and Workers United Federal Credit Union.

New York, NY, May 10, 2010 --
On May 12, 2010, starting at 6:00 pm, more than 300 guests are expected to gather at Gotham Hall in Manhattan for the Business Law & Leadership Gala to celebrate the partnership between lawyers and nonprofits and their power to transform New York City communities.

The Business Law & Leadership Gala will honor three New York community leaders for their exemplary commitment to public service, including:

New York, NY, April 07, 2010 --
On Wednesday, April 14, 2010, Lawyers Alliance for New York will receive a Keystone Award from the Federation of Protestant Welfare Agencies (FPWA). Every year FPWA presents the Award to organizations and individuals who have provided outstanding service in the New York City social services sector. Lawyers Alliance will be honored for its “comprehensive and high quality transactional legal services to nonprofits serving low-income communities.” The award is part of FPWA’s annual conference series, this year titled, “Real Life Collaborations in the Nonprofit World,” to take place at NYU's Kimmel Center for Student Life.

Notes Executive Director Sean Delany, “Lawyers Alliance is proud to join the distinguished list of past Keystone Award recipients and equally proud of the longstanding working relationship that we have enjoyed with FPWA. We also applaud our fellow award recipient, HRNY, the New York City branch of the Society of Human Resources Management.”

Says Fatima Goldman, FPWA’s Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer, “We feel Lawyers Alliance is a strong choice to receive a Keystone Award. The work they do every day -- “connecting lawyers, nonprofits, and communities” -- exemplifies what this award is about: the importance of organizations working together to ensure that New York City’s nonprofit community has the support it needs to succeed on the front lines of service.”

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Lawyers Alliance for New York is the leading provider of business and transactional legal services for nonprofit organizations that are improving the quality of life in New York City neighborhoods. Lawyers Alliance’s network of pro bono lawyers from law firms and corporations and staff of experienced attorneys work together, delivering expert corporate, tax, real estate, employment, and other legal services to community organizations. By connecting lawyers, nonprofits, and communities, Lawyers Alliance helps nonprofits to develop affordable housing, stimulate economic development, and operate vital programs for children and young people, the elderly, recent immigrants, and other low-income New Yorkers. During the past year, the 13 staff attorneys and more than 1,400 active volunteers represented 550 nonprofit clients on more than 900 different legal matters.

New York, NY, October 20, 2009 --
Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker LLP, Seyfarth Shaw LLP, and eight individual attorneys are recipients of the 2009 Cornerstone Awards, presented each year by Lawyers Alliance for New York in recognition of outstanding pro bono legal services to nonprofit groups that are working to improve neighborhoods throughout New York City. Lawyers Alliance will present the awards at a ceremony on October 27, 2009, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Pfizer Inc, 150 East 42nd Street in New York City.

“This year’s honorees donated countless hours and gave extraordinary dedication and legal expertise to nonprofit organizations that are having a positive and profound impact throughout New York City. Their pro bono commitment strengthened the ability of these nonprofits to pursue their missions during a time of increasing demand for their services,” said Edward F. Greene, Chair of the Board of Directors of Lawyers Alliance.

Lawyers Alliance is the leading provider of business and transactional legal services for nonprofit organizations that are improving the quality of life in low-income neighborhoods throughout New York City.

This year’s institutional Cornerstone awardees are:

Paul, Hastings, Janofsky & Walker LLP: For its substantial pro bono growth with far-reaching and impressive results. This law firm’s corporate, real estate, employment and intellectual property lawyers have handled 19 pro bono legal projects with Lawyers Alliance in the past year alone. Their quality and sophisticated legal work is making a difference to economic development organizations, charter schools, youth organizations, community and senior centers, and other neighborhood organizations.

Seyfarth Shaw LLP: For accomplishments as a firm and exemplary pro bono contributions. With 30 pro bono legal projects handled during the past year, Seyfarth Shaw has made a sizable increase in the number of matters it has undertaken. This extensive pro bono work helps to create opportunities and improve the lives of low-income residents in all five boroughs of New York City.

"The level of pro bono impact can increase substantially and benefit more nonprofits and more neighborhoods when law firms encourage and support staff involvement in pro bono projects with Lawyers Alliance,” says Elizabeth M. Guggenheimer, Deputy Executive Director of Lawyers Alliance and an authority on pro bono issues.

This year’s individual Cornerstone awardees are:

Peter L. Curry, Farrell Fritz, P.C.: For his experienced real estate counsel, enabling Services Now for Adult Persons to acquire a new space that will help the organization achieve more cost-effective and efficient operations.

Keith E. Danish, Hiscock & Barclay: For securing trademarks for Jazzmobile’s name nationally and internationally, as well as securing the trademark for the organization’s “Jazzy award,” which together will enhance the organization’s licensing and educational efforts.

Jessica A. Gary, Goodwin Procter LLP: For intricate corporate legal work, including preparing tax exemption and advising on and negotiating leases and management agreements, to support the development of the Believe High School Network, which includes Williamsburg Charter High School.

Joseph A. Guay, Holland & Knight LLP: For helping create affordable housing opportunities through exceptional real estate guidance provided to Bridge Street Development Corporation, whose mission is to help residents of the Bedford-Stuyvesant section of Brooklyn acquire appreciating assets.

Andrew B. Latack, Creative Artists Agency (formerly of Proskauer Rose LLP): For helping Forestdale, the largest family services agency in Queens, develop a solid organizational structure through in-depth governance counsel.

Doreen E. Lilienfeld, Shearman & Sterling LLP: For providing quality – and often urgent – employment advice to more than a dozen nonprofit organizations and playing a lead pro bono and mentoring role at her law firm.

Jason T. Polevoy, McDermott Will & Emery LLP: For his high-impact pro bono on behalf of Williamsburg Valley Industrial Development Corporation to help preserve industrial real estate and secure a diversified economic base in and around East Williamsburg Park.

Rona G. Shamoon, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP: For her longstanding pro bono commitment as volunteer general counsel to Greater Al-Anon Family Intergroup, an organization that provides vital services to New Yorkers in all five boroughs affected by the family disease of alcoholism.

“Lawyers Alliance for New York applauds the individual recipients of the 2009 Cornerstone Awards for extending their talents and commitment to dynamic organizations that bring opportunities and services to New York neighborhoods and residents most in need,” said Sean Delany, Executive Director of Lawyers Alliance and a legal expert on nonprofits. By connecting lawyers, nonprofits, and communities, Lawyers Alliance helps nonprofits to develop affordable housing, stimulate economic development, and operate vital programs for children and young people, the elderly, recent immigrants, and other low-income New Yorkers. This year, the 14 staff attorneys at Lawyers Alliance are working with more than 1,400 volunteer attorneys from more than 100 law firms and corporate legal departments to represent 560 nonprofit clients on more than 970 matters.

Contact: Agnes Cao, Berry & Company Public Relations, mail to: or call 212-253-8881.

Effective July 31, 2009, Lawyers Alliance for New York
is located at 171 Madison Avenue

New York, NY, July 28, 2009 --
Effective July 31, 2009, Lawyers Alliance relocated its operations to 171 Madison Avenue (at 33rd Street), 6th floor, New York, NY 10016. The telephone number, 212-219-1800; fax number, 212-941-7458; and website, www.lawyersalliance.org remain the same.

The move is part of the organization's long-term plan for meeting clients' legal needs as well as to accommodate future development. The new 7,200 square-foot space includes an on-site facility for Lawyers Alliance's workshops that accommodates approximately 30 participants.

Says Executive Director Sean Delany, “This new space presents an exciting improvement in Lawyers Alliance's facilities. I am confident that our new accommodations will play an integral role in Lawyers Alliance’s ability to offer excellence in legal services and educational programs for nonprofits.”

Visit www.lawyersalliance.org for more information on Lawyers Alliance’s programs, including the Fall 2009 Workshop Calendar.

New York, NY, June 22, 2009 --
Lawyers Alliance for New York congratulates the winners of the New York Times Third Annual Nonprofit Excellence Awards. The Nonprofit Coordinating Committee of New York and Philanthropy New York joined the Times Company in presenting the awards to four winners, including two organizations that have received Lawyers Alliance’s services, New York Cares and Groundwork, Inc. Winners also included Vera Institute of Justice and Neighborhood Economic Development Advocacy Project.

Lawyers Alliance applauds its clients who received the Nonprofit Excellence Awards:

New York Cares: Winner for Overall Management Excellence. New York Cares meets pressing community needs by mobilizing caring New Yorkers in volunteer service. Each year, New York Cares brings vital volunteer support to more than 990 nonprofit agencies, public schools, and other deserving organizations throughout the five boroughs. Program staff works with each organization to identify their most pressing needs, create projects where volunteers can make a meaningful difference, and then recruit and deploy teams of volunteers to help meet those needs. The great majority of these projects typically would not exist if it were not for New York Cares. Lawyers Alliance has assisted New York Cares on employment law matters.

Groundwork, Inc.: Winner for Excellent Management. Groundwork supports young people living in high poverty urban communities as they develop their strengths, skills, talents and competencies through effective experiential learning and work programs. It offers programs targeting children of all ages, including academic enrichment, tutoring, high school and college preparation, pregnancy and STD prevention, mentoring, leadership programs, employment, afterschool activities, athletics, literacy programs, and field trips. Groundwork also helps build strong families through individual, family and group counseling, peer groups, play therapy, and crisis intervention as well as meeting legal, financial and other needs. It has experienced rapid growth over the past 7 years, going from serving 89 students in 2002 to serving 3,500 families in 2009. Lawyers Alliance has advised Groundwork, Inc. on state and local compliance matters.

Lawyers Alliance also congratulates two other current or recent clients who were finalists: Citizens Advice Bureau and Legal Information for Families Today.

New York, NY, May 19, 2009 --
On May 19, 2009 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., more than 400 guests helped Lawyers Alliance for New York celebrate its 40th Anniversary at Gotham Hall in Manhattan. The evening’s program included a historical retrospective and presentations of three public service awards to the following outstanding partners in public service:

Michael Helfer, on behalf of the Legal Department of Citigroup. The Legal Department of Citigroup has played a key role in Lawyers Alliance's Elder Services Initiative. Citigroup’s distinctive efforts included two Legal Assessment Days for elder-serving organizations to provide education and advice to benefit 40 member organizations of the Council of Senior Centers and Services network. Michael Helfer and the attorneys from Citigroup understand the importance of providing counsel to groups that could not otherwise afford it and the impact that their service can have on the quality of life in New York City neighborhoods.

Thomas C. Baxter, Jr. of the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. The Federal Reserve Bank of New York has partnered with the City Bar Justice Center to launch the Lawyers’ Foreclosure Intervention Network, an initiative to marshal the resources of New York City’s legal community to help subprime borrowers in New York City avoid unnecessary foreclosure. The nonprofit organizations that are served by Lawyers Alliance include dozens of groups fighting the foreclosure crisis through debt counseling and financial literacy programs. Lawyers Alliance applauds the Federal Reserve Bank of New York for taking the lead in helping homeowners survive the worst economic crisis in generations.

Fatima Goldman and the Federation of Protestant Welfare Agencies. With its network of almost 300 human service agencies and affiliated churches, FPWA provides programs and services that help more than 1.5 million people each year. Services include assisting individuals in need, strengthening human service agencies and faith-based services, as well as leading the way on policy, advocacy, and research. As a partner in such efforts, Lawyers Alliance knows first-hand what FPWA brings to each nonprofit member and how it will help each of them to navigate the most tumultuous economic environment in decades.

Just as the 1960s were drawing to a close, the Council of New York Law Associates, later known as Lawyers Alliance for New York, was opening a new chapter in pro bono legal service. Founded on September 29, 1969, the organization leveraged the era's climate of social activism and change and mobilized a talented, dedicated corps of volunteer attorneys. Today, Lawyers Alliance is the oldest and largest provider of pro bono legal services to nonprofit organizations in the United States.

Says Edward F. Greene, Chair, Lawyers Alliance Board of Directors, “Those of us who created it when we first gathered in 1969 could never have imagined that Lawyers Alliance would have evolved and matured into such an instrument for positive change in New York City. I am privileged to be associated with Lawyers Alliance as we celebrate our 40th anniversary, and I look forward to many more years connecting lawyers, nonprofits, and communities.”

Click here for more information about Lawyers Alliance’s 40 years of history.

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Lawyers Alliance for New York is the leading provider of business and transactional legal services for nonprofit organizations that are improving the quality of life in New York City neighborhoods. Lawyers Alliance’s network of pro bono lawyers from law firms and corporations and staff of experienced attorneys work together, delivering expert corporate, tax, real estate, employment, and other legal services to community organizations. By connecting lawyers, nonprofits, and communities, Lawyers Alliance helps nonprofits to develop affordable housing, stimulate economic development, and operate vital programs for children and young people, the elderly, recent immigrants, and other low-income New Yorkers. During the past year, the 13 staff attorneys and a network of more than 900 volunteers represented 545 nonprofit clients on more than 900 matters.

New York, NY, December 23, 2008 --
In response to the changing economy, Lawyers Alliance has instituted an Economic Downturn initiative to bolster stability and support the resilience of nonprofits. This initiative consists of legal representation of organizations, monthly legal alerts, educational workshops, and resource calls that are focused on strategies for nonprofits to cope with the weakened economy.

During the coming year Lawyers Alliance expects that its staff and pro bono attorneys will advise dozens of nonprofit clients on legal matters with an aim to help preserve programs, including legal issues related to fundraising, personnel management, real property, mergers and strategic alliances, and debt restructuring.

Calendar of Legal Alerts

October 2008 - Board Asserts Fiscal Oversight Responsibility
November 2008 - Tapping Cash Reserves
December 2008 - Real Estate Tax Exemptions
January 2009 - Rollback Employee Benefits
February 2009 - Assigning or Subletting Your Organization's Space
March 2009 - Refinancing Property
April 2009 - Reductions in Workforce
May 2009 - Mergers and Strategic Alliances
June 2009 - Asset Transfers

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Lawyers Alliance for New York is the leading provider of business and transactional legal services for nonprofit organizations that are improving the quality of life in New York City neighborhoods. Lawyers Alliance’s network of pro bono lawyers from law firms and corporations and staff of experienced attorneys work together, delivering expert corporate, tax, real estate, employment, and other legal services to community organizations. By connecting lawyers, nonprofits, and communities, Lawyers Alliance helps nonprofits to develop affordable housing, stimulate economic development, and operate vital programs for children and young people, the elderly, recent immigrants, and other low-income New Yorkers. During the past year, the 13 staff attorneys and more than 1,000 active volunteers represented 545 nonprofit clients on more than 900 matters.

New York, NY, November 07, 2008 --
Dechert LLP, Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP, PricewaterhouseCoopers, and nine individual attorneys are recipients of the 2008 Cornerstone Awards. Lawyers Alliance for New York (Lawyers Alliance) will present the awards at a ceremony on November 10 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Pfizer Inc, 150 East 42nd Street in New York City.

“This year’s honorees donated incredible time, energy and legal expertise to nonprofit organizations that are having a positive and profound impact throughout New York City. Their dedication strengthened the ability of these nonprofits to pursue their missions,” said Edward F. Greene, Chair of the Board of Directors of Lawyers Alliance and General Counsel, Institutional Client Group, Citi.

Lawyers Alliance is the leading provider of business and transactional legal services for nonprofit organizations that are improving the quality of life in low-income neighborhoods throughout New York City.

This year’s institutional Cornerstone awardees are:

Dechert LLP: For its impressive pro bono growth with a firm commitment and firm-wide effort. This law firm’s corporate, real estate, employment and intellectual property lawyers have handled 19 pro bono legal projects with Lawyers Alliance in the past year alone. Their quality and sophisticated lawyering is making a difference to economic development organizations, charter schools, immigrant-serving groups, community and senior centers, and other neighborhood organizations.

Dewey & LeBoeuf LLP: For continuing and building upon its predecessor law firms’ strong pro bono history, resulting in a pro bono program that is even stronger than its previous parts. Since the 2007 merger, the firm has handled 37 pro bono legal projects, sponsored a full-time transactional law externship, and represented 23 different nonprofits through Lawyers Alliance. This pro bono work helps to create opportunities and improve the lives of low-income residents in all the boroughs of New York City.

Special honoree, PricewaterhouseCoopers: For pro bono financial and accounting guidance to Head Start programs. In a first of its kind partnership, PricewaterhouseCoopers has joined with the law firm of DLA Piper LLP (US), the City’s Administration for Children's Services, and Lawyers Alliance to advise Head Start programs on sound governance and fiscal practices. The accounting firm’s professional staff offers practical and concrete information about financial and accounting matters, thereby making the legal advice more meaningful.

“This year’s institutional honorees demonstrate that, when law firms encourage and support business and transactional law pro bono, and when accountants provide related pro bono financial guidance, the potential for nonprofits to grow, thrive and serve New York neighborhoods is increased exponentially,” says Elizabeth M. Guggenheimer, Deputy Executive Director of Lawyers Alliance and an authority on pro bono issues.

This year’s individual Cornerstone awardees are:

Lester M. Bliwise, Sutherland: For his experienced real estate law guidance, enabling New Destiny Housing Corporation to provide additional affordable housing for domestic violence survivors and helping Community Access to purchase a property that will provide 64 affordable housing units in the Bronx.

James P. Breheny, Stroock & Stroock & Lavan LLP: For advising community development and disaster relief organizations about structuring and organizational matters, benefitting organizations such as the Fair Mortgage Collaborative, New York Disaster Interfaith Service, Bailey’s Café, and Interfaith Adopt-a-Building.

Warren T. Buhle, Weil, Gotshal & Manges LLP: For his longstanding pro bono commitment as volunteer general counsel to Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa Research Association of America (DebRA), which promotes research to find new treatments and a cure for the rare genetic skin disease.

Jessica A. Chiclacos, Nixon Peabody LLP: For her exceptional employment counsel to nonprofits that serve vulnerable populations, including FRIA (Friends and Relatives of Institutionalized Aged), Funders Concerned About AIDS, and The HOPE Program, enabling these organizations to implement strong personnel policies and procedures.

John Fouhey and Legal Team, Davis Polk & Wardwell: For providing substantial corporate, real estate and environmental law guidance to Citizens Advice Bureau, for its acquisition and financing of new headquarters and program space, enabling this nonprofit to continue its work to build sustainable communities in the Bronx.

Alison King, Kaye Scholer LLP: For leading her firm’s participation in a large-scale pro bono project to help New York City charter schools, as well as assisting individual charter school clients on legal matters including formation, tax-exemption applications, lease negotiations and management organization contracts.

Jay Larry, Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP: For using his corporate law knowledge and keen insights to help organizations such as 142nd Block Association, Families, Fathers and Children, United Way of NYC, and Julian’s Light take the legal steps to launch programs and strengthen their operations.

Angel L. Ortiz, NBC Universal: For providing intricate employment and labor law guidance to housing organizations such as Housing Conservation Coordinators, which advocates for low-income New Yorkers, and Brooklyn Community Housing and Services, which offers supportive housing to the formerly homeless.

Damon G. Rowe, Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP: For sharing his legal and personal skills to help several newly forming organizations get a solid start, including Cathedral of Joy Community Development Corporation, Housing Here and Now, South Bronx Classical Charter School, and South Bronx Food Coop.

“Lawyers Alliance for New York applauds the individual recipients of the 2008 Cornerstone Awards for extending their talents and commitment to dynamic organizations that bring opportunities and services to New York neighborhoods and residents most in need,” said Sean Delany, Executive Director of Lawyers Alliance and a legal expert on nonprofits.

By connecting lawyers, nonprofits, and communities, Lawyers Alliance helps nonprofits to develop affordable housing, stimulate economic development, and operate vital programs for children and young people, the elderly, recent immigrants, and other low-income New Yorkers. This year, the 13 staff attorneys at Lawyers Alliance are working with more than 1,000 volunteer attorneys from more than 1000 law firms and corporate legal departments to represent 545 nonprofit clients on more than 900 matters.

Contact: Sara Lizzo, Berry & Company Public Relations, mail to: slizzo@berrypr.com or call 212-253-8881.

New York, NY, July 22, 2008 --
Lawyers Alliance for New York congratulates the winners of the New York Times Second Annual Nonprofit Excellence Awards. The Nonprofit Coordinating Committee of New York and the New York Regional Association of Grant Makers joined the Times Company in presenting the awards to four winners, including three Lawyers Alliance clients, Community Health Action of Staten Island, Harlem RBI, and Ifetayo Cultural Arts.

Lawyers Alliance applauds its clients who received the Nonprofit Excellence Awards:

Community Health Action of Staten Island won for Overall Management Excellence because of their successful response to emerging communities by initiating new programs, modifying its mission and actively seeking feedback from clients. The organization improves the lives of those challenged by health disparities related to poverty, discrimination, and lack of access. Lawyers Alliance is assisting the organization with amending its certificate of incorporation.

Harlem RBI won for Excellent Communications and was praised for board governance and leadership, in particular its use of a Board Member Report Card that resulted in a 20 percent increase in board attendance. The organization uses the power of teams to help inspire city youth to recognize their potential and realize their dreams. Lawyers Alliance staff and volunteer attorneys have assisted Harlem RBI on employment, real estate, intellectual property, and contract negotiation matters.

Ifetayo Cultural Arts won for Excellent Culturally Based Management Strategies due to its strong focus on results and online date-driven tracking system, which allows parents, teachers, and community members to track student progress. The organization is dedicated to supporting the creative, educational and vocational development of youth and families of the Flatbush community in Brooklyn. Lawyers Alliance staff and volunteer attorneys have assisted Ifetayo Cultural Arts on commercial leases, intellectual property, by-laws, and employment matters.

Lawyers Alliance also congratulates The Institute for Family Health, winner for Excellent Use of Technology and Focus on Mission.

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Lawyers Alliance for New York is the leading provider of business and transactional legal services for nonprofit organizations that are improving the quality of life in New York City neighborhoods. Lawyers Alliance’s network of pro bono lawyers from law firms and corporations and staff of experienced attorneys work together, delivering expert corporate, tax, real estate, employment, and other legal services to community organizations. By connecting lawyers, nonprofits, and communities, Lawyers Alliance helps nonprofits to develop affordable housing, stimulate economic development, and operate vital programs for children and young people, the elderly, recent immigrants, and other low-income New Yorkers. During the past year, the 13 staff attorneys and more than 1,000 active volunteers represented 545 nonprofit clients on more than 900 matters.

New York, NY, June 04, 2008 --
Robert S. Whitman, Esq., a partner at Seyfarth Shaw LLP, has been named recipient of the 2008 Award for Pro Bono Leadership from Lawyers Alliance for New York, in recognition of his 11 years of outstanding service as a volunteer attorney. The award will be presented to Mr. Whitman at a special reception on June 5, 2008 at The Penn Club. Each year Lawyers Alliance presents the award to a law firm partner who has performed exemplary pro bono service for nonprofit organizations in New York City.

Mr. Whitman has advised numerous nonprofit organizations in the New York metro area over the years, including the New York Center for Interpersonal Development, South Asian Youth Action, African American Planning Commission, Bailey House, City Futures, Historic Districts Council, Ridgewood Older Adult Center & Services, Foundation for Research on Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Do Something, and Supportive Housing Network of New York. For these and other clients, Mr. Whitman has drafted and reviewed policies and procedures, advised on issues such as the proper categorization of employees and employer obligations with respect to overtime pay, and provided counsel on sensitive matters related to difficult employees and employee misconduct. These services strengthen the workforce that is so critical to the nonprofit sector and minimize employer risk.

Mr. Whitman was also one of the first attorneys to join Lawyers Alliance’s Nonprofit Employment Law Helpline panel. In recognition of his previous outstanding pro bono work, Mr. Whitman received a Cornerstone Award from Lawyers Alliance in 2006.

Mr. Whitman’s practice at Seyfarth focuses on employment litigation, arbitration and counseling. Mr. Whitman is a 1986 graduate of Cornell University and received his J.D. from the University of Michigan in 1989. ### Lawyers Alliance for New York is the leading provider of business and transactional legal services for nonprofit organizations that are improving the quality of life in New York City neighborhoods. By connecting lawyers, nonprofits, and communities, we help nonprofits to develop affordable housing, stimulate economic development, and operate vital programs for children and young people, the elderly, recent immigrants, and other low-income New Yorkers. Each year, Lawyers Alliance’s 14 staff attorneys and over 900 volunteers represent more than 500 clients on more than 900 legal matters. In addition, Lawyers Alliance assists hundreds of other organizations through its educational workshops and publications on nonprofit legal issues.

New York, NY, July 10, 2007 --
Lawyers Alliance for New York today appointed a new chair and new vice chair to the organization’s board of directors. Edward F. Greene, general counsel of Citigroup Inc.’s Global Corporate & Investment Banking Group, will take over as chair, replacing Christine D. Rogers of Arnold & Porter. Mr. Greene had previously served as vice chair. Jill L. Rosenberg, partner, Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe LLP will succeed Mr. Greene as the board’s vice chair.

Mr. Greene was a founder of Lawyers Alliance in 1969, then known as the Council of New York Law Associates. He has served on the Lawyers Alliance board of directors since 2004. He graduated from Harvard Law School with an undergraduate degree from Amherst College.

“It is an honor to be elected chairman of the board, and I am proud to be associated with Lawyers Alliance,” said Mr. Greene. “This is an important and exciting time to be chair of an organization that is having such a major impact on nonprofits that are serving low-income communities.”

Ms. Rosenberg has served on the board since 2003. In addition to advising a range of clients and being a frequent speaker on employment law issues, Ms. Rosenberg serves as the firm’s Partner in Charge of Pro Bono Programs. Ms. Rosenberg graduated from University of Chicago Law School with an undergraduate degree from Princeton University.

Mr. Greene and Ms. Rosenberg will join board treasurer Nicolas A. Kronfeld from Davis Polk & Wardwell and board secretary Samir A. Gandhi from Sidley Austin LLP.

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Lawyers Alliance for New York is the leading provider of business and transactional legal services for nonprofit organizations that are improving the quality of life in New York City neighborhoods. Lawyers Alliance’s network of pro bono lawyers from law firms and corporations and staff of experienced attorneys work together, delivering expert corporate, tax, real estate, employment, and other legal services to community organizations. By connecting lawyers, nonprofits, and communities, Lawyers Alliance helps nonprofits to develop affordable housing, stimulate economic development, and operate vital programs for children and young people, the elderly, recent immigrants, and other low-income New Yorkers. Each year, the 13 staff attorneys at Lawyers Alliance and more than 700 volunteers serve 500 clients on more than 800 legal matters.

New York, NY, June 21, 2007 --
Michael Feinman, partner at Blank Rome LLP, was awarded the 2007 Lawyers Alliance Award for Pro Bono Leadership at Lawyers Alliance’s annual theater benefit reception held at the Penn Club. The award is presented each year to a law firm partner who has performed exemplary pro bono service to the nonprofit organizations served by Lawyers Alliance for New York. Michael Feinman’s award is in recognition of his record of 14 years of service as a volunteer attorney.

“Real estate issues are among the most common legal needs that nonprofit organizations must address in order to provide services in New York neighborhoods. Numerous nonprofit organizations have benefited from Michael's expert real estate and financing guidance over the years, and – we trust – many more will benefit from his counsel in the years to come. Michael sets an example for all of the lawyers in his firm and around the city, partners and associates, and we salute his good work,” said Sean Delany, executive director of Lawyers Alliance for New York.

Mr. Feinman is currently providing pro bono legal services to the Brooklyn Economic Development Corporation, including advising on all legal and transactional matters related to the renovation of a former federal building to serve as a multi-use nonprofit center. He also recently helped to obtain a $500,000 payment for a share in the sale of a real estate project for another client, the Hollis Local Development Corporation.

Michael Feinman’s practice at Blank Rome focuses on real estate, with particular experience in the area of financing, where he represents both lenders and borrowers. Mr. Feinman represents financial institutions, funds, developers, investors, and individual entrepreneurs in a broad range of sophisticated transactions in the areas of securitized and portfolio mortgage lending, acquisitions and sales, leasing and lease-based financing, development and workouts.

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Lawyers Alliance for New York is the leading provider of business and transactional legal services for nonprofit organizations that are improving the quality of life in New York City neighborhoods. By connecting lawyers, nonprofits, and communities, we help nonprofits to develop affordable housing, stimulate economic development, and operate vital programs for children and young people, the elderly, recent immigrants, and other low-income New Yorkers.

New York, NY, June 12, 2006 --
Lawyers Alliance for New York announces that Mark E. Brossman, a partner at Schulte Roth & Zabel LLP, will receive the organization’s first annual Award for Pro Bono Leadership for his outstanding pro bono legal services to nonprofit organizations by a law firm partner. Lawyers Alliance will present the award at a reception at T New York, 240 West 52nd Street in New York City on June 13, 2006, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm.

"Mark personifies what this award is all about. He understands that partners play a critical role in communicating the importance of pro bono service through action and words," said Sean Delany, executive director of Lawyers Alliance. "Over the years Mark has been an eloquent voice for pro bono service. More importantly, he walks the walk -- the number of nonprofit organizations that Mark has assisted represents a truly remarkable record of service for community organizations all over New York City."

Mark E. Brossman is a partner and co-head of the employment and employee benefits practice at Schulte Roth & Zabel. He represents clients in all aspects of employment and employee benefits law, including employment discrimination, ERISA, labor relations, education law and related litigation. Mr. Brossman serves as chair of the Committee on Employee Benefits of the New York State Bar Association and was inducted into the Academy of Employee Benefit Authors.

As a pro bono attorney for Lawyers Alliance, Mr. Brossman has represented more than 12 nonprofit organizations on employment and other nonprofit business law matters. These include Asian Americans for Equality, Council of Senior Centers & Services of New York City, The East Harlem School at Exodus House, East Harlem Tutorial Program, Flatbush Haitian Center, Friends of the Family Academy, Hearts and Minds Network, HIV Law Project, Kingsbridge Heights Community Center, Manhattan Neighborhood Renaissance LDC, Neighborhood Housing Services of New York City, Northern Manhattan Collaborates, and Ossining Open Door.

"It is an honor to receive this award from Lawyers Alliance for New York," said Mr. Brossman. "I’m grateful for the many opportunities they’ve given me to help all kinds of organizations doing great work. My pro bono experiences with clients of Lawyers Alliance have been immensely rewarding, both personally and professionally. I look forward to continuing to support of Lawyers Alliance and the important services it provides."

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Lawyers Alliance staff and volunteers provide high quality and affordable business law services to nonprofit organizations throughout New York City that are dedicated to improving our communities in several critical areas, including affordable housing and homeless services, economic development, children and youth services, immigrant communities and elder services. Each year, the 12 staff attorneys at Lawyers Alliance work with more than 700 volunteer attorneys to serve more than 450 clients on more than 700 legal matters. In addition, Lawyers Alliance sponsors educational workshops and distributes publications on nonprofit legal issues.

New York, NY, November 30, 1999 --
Citigroup Inc., Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP, and ten individual attorneys from law firms and corporations are recipients of the 2007 Cornerstone Awards, presented by Lawyers Alliance for New York. The Cornerstone Awards recognize outstanding pro bono legal services provided to nonprofit organizations by institutions and business lawyers. Lawyers Alliance will host an awards ceremony on December 13, 2007 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Pfizer Inc, 150 East 42nd Street in New York City.

“Lawyers Alliance’s programs are designed to have the maximum impact on our nonprofit clients and the neighborhoods that they serve. The institutions and individuals honored with the Cornerstone Award stand out for their deep commitment to the ideals of pro bono legal work,” said Edward F. Greene, Chair of the Board of Directors of Lawyers Alliance for New York.

Lawyers Alliance for New York is the leading provider of business and transactional legal services for nonprofit organizations that are improving the quality of life in low-income neighborhoods throughout New York City.

This year’s institutional Cornerstone awardees are:

Citigroup Inc.: For the corporate legal department's exemplary pro bono standards and commitment to pro bono through the CitiLegal Pro Bono Initiative. Citigroup Inc. is singled out for hosting innovative Legal Assessment Days and ongoing pro bono legal work to nonprofit organizations serving low-income seniors. With legal guidance, these organizations are better able to provide a wide range of social services to elderly New Yorkers, from food and shelter to information and supportive services.

Hughes Hubbard & Reed LLP: For the substantial breadth, complexity, and significance of the law firm’s pro bono work on behalf of nonprofit clients. The firm’s business and transactional attorneys regularly use their skills and talents to help nonprofit organizations to foster economic development, provide affordable housing, and educate youth. The firm has handled 35 different pro bono matters through Lawyers Alliance, reflecting a large-scale institutional commitment to make a positive difference in New York neighborhoods.

This year’s individual Cornerstone awardees are:

Corey S. Biller, Davis & Gilbert LLP: For his trusted employment counsel to several nonprofit organizations that serve immigrant and other underserved communities, enabling these organizations to address both immediate and long-term human resources needs.

Steve Buffone, Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP: For leading a team of lawyers who provide valuable corporate and intellectual property law guidance to Do Something, Inc., including his assistance with this year’s BRICK Awards, which celebrated the achievements of outstanding young people in front of a national primetime audience.

Ellen H. Clark, DLA Piper US LLP: For sharing her skills and expertise with several Head Start programs and other nonprofit organizations that appreciate her guidance on corporate governance and regulatory compliance issues.

Felicity Fridman, McDermott Will & Emery LLP: For assisting Concrete Safaris, an organization that helps to improve the health and fitness of inner-city youth in East Harlem, with formation issues and its expansion to a larger facility that will serve more children.

Herschel Goldfield, Proskauer Rose LLP: For using his corporate law and regulatory expertise to strengthen the capacity of several nonprofit organizations, including Campaign for Fiscal Equity and Go to Health!-Ambuslatory Care.

Dennis J. Henderson, Arent Fox LLP: For representing Upper Manhattan Council Assisting Neighbors, Inc. in the acquisition and financing of two low-income housing projects, creating more than 140 units of affordable housing in the Bronx.

Alan M. Klinger, Stroock Stroock & Lavan LLP: For his and the firm’s long-term pro bono commitment as volunteer general counsel to Partnership with Children, which provides early intervention, preventive services, and counseling to New York City’s children and youth.

Matthew W. Mamak, Alston & Bird LLP: For sharing his positive attitude and corporate legal skills to assist dynamic organizations, such as Sutphin Boulevard Business Improvement District and The New York City Mission Society.

Victoria Manthas, Clifford Chance US LLP: For advancing economic development in Brooklyn by advising East Williamsburg Valley Industrial Development Corporation on a project that will create and retain manufacturing and industrial jobs in the East Williamsburg.

Terri J. Seligman, Loeb & Loeb LLP: For ten years of dedicated pro bono legal service to Dress for Success, beginning with its founding in New York and remaining active through its development of affiliate programs that now annually reach more than 40,000 women in four countries.

“Lawyers Alliance for New York applauds all of the 2007 Cornerstone Award recipients for contributing their time and for bringing their outstanding skills and commitment to community organizations that are creating new opportunities for thousands of low-income New Yorkers,” said Sean Delany, Executive Director of Lawyers Alliance for New York.

Working together, Lawyers Alliance’s staff attorneys and a city-wide network of pro bono lawyers from law firms and corporations deliver expert corporate, tax, real estate, employment, and other legal services to community organizations. By connecting lawyers, nonprofits, and communities, Lawyers Alliance helps nonprofits to develop affordable housing, stimulate economic development, and operate vital programs for children and young people, the elderly, recent immigrants, and other low-income New Yorkers. Each year, Lawyers Alliance’s 14 staff attorneys and 900 volunteers represent more than 500 clients on more than 800 legal matters. In addition, Lawyers Alliance assists hundreds of other organizations through its educational workshops and publications on nonprofit legal issues.

Click here for a complete list of current and past Cornerstone Award recipients.

Contact: Sara Lizzo or Kim Angelastro Berry & Company Public Relations, mail to: slizzo@berrypr.com or call 212-253-8881.