The Illinois Bar Foundation celebrates its 75th year of giving crucial support to Illinois attorneys and the public.
In 1951, a handful of visionary leaders at the Illinois State Bar Association recognized the need for a statewide charitable and philanthropic organization and so the ISBA Foundation, now called the Illinois Bar Foundation (IBF), was born. The mission was to provide aid to deserving members of the Illinois Bar who, due to age or infirmity, could no longer provide for their own care or support.
As the IBF kicks off the start of its 75th anniversary, we are reminded not only of the growth the IBF has experienced but also of the people who have made it possible.
One of the earliest and most significant contributions has been the addition of the Fellows program, or Champions program as it is referred to today. Established in 1983, the Fellows program was formed to create long-term sustainable funding for the IBF while giving its members the opportunity to support legal professionals in need across Illinois. Today, more than 1,600 individuals have pledged their support as a commitment to the IBF mission and to the many vulnerable populations the foundation serves. “Most lawyers want to give back to the community,” says former Fellows (now Champions) Chair Edward Burt. “The Champions program continues to be the vehicle for an individual lawyer to contribute a modest amount annually along with likeminded Illinois lawyers. These annual donations are a cornerstone of the Champions because when we work together, we can and do make a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most.”
More than 20 years ago, with the growing need for legal aid and pro bono support, the IBF expanded its mission to help provide meaningful access to the civil justice system for those with limited means. There the IBF’s Access to Justice Grants program was born. Today this program grants out nearly $400,000 to legal aid partners across the state each year. “Having served on the IBF Board for over 15 years and as its president, I can say with confidence that the IBF is uniquely qualified to vet and select those legal aid organizations that best stretch limited funds to do the most good for our Illinois communities,” states Justice Debra Walker of the First District of the Illinois Appellate Court. Not long after, the IBF was selected to administer the statewide AmeriCorps program, Illinois JusticeCorps, which helps thousands of people each year get critical procedural guidance to navigate the court system. Today this program operates in 17 courthouses statewide. “When we think about access to justice, we need to strive for everyone to be able to utilize the courts. A wise judge once told me that the courthouse is the people’s house, and that the courts should work for the people. JusticeCorps Fellows empower the people to feel more comfortable in their house,” says IBF Board Member Letitia Wiggins.
And of course, it wouldn’t be a nonprofit if there weren’t a few fundraising events (“friendraisers,” as we call them) throughout the year to bring people together and raise critical dollars for the organization. The IBF’s two signature events, the annual black-tie Gala and Lawyers Rock concert fundraiser have generated millions of dollars that are invested back into the community. “These events have become a mainstay over the years, only missing two in our history due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and they continue to raise crucial dollars for the foundation’s mission,” says Mark Hassakis, past IBF and ISBA president and most recent IBF Gala honoree.
It has been a strong and unforgettable 75 years, filled with hard work, passion, a positive impact, and so many memorable stories and moments. While we have been fortunate enough to expand to meet the needs of the Illinois community, much more needs to be done. “We have been entrusted to serve as the current stewards of the Illinois Bar Foundation with the privilege and awesome opportunity to chart a course to ensure that the foundation is relevant and vibrant over the next 75 years,” says IBF First Vice President Juan Thomas.
In this milestone year, we encourage you to join us in celebrating the past and impacting our future. We hope to see you at some of our upcoming events—maybe as a future IBF Champion!
Stacey Meehan
Stacey Meehan is executive director and chief development officer for the Illinois Bar Foundation.
smeehan@illinoisbarfoundation.org