Miami Law's Hope Day of Service Aims to Instill Pro-Bono Spirit

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Miami Scholar Jamie Webner spreads smiles to children during HOPE Day of Service. (Photo: Miami Law) Full-Size Photo

Posted: August 06, 2012

Miami Law's HOPE Public Interest Resource Center sent hundreds of law students to various sites across Miami-Dade County through the Annual HOPE Day of Service on Thursday, August 16th. HOPE seeks to instill a pro bono spirit in all law students by starting off the academic year with community service and by brightening the lives of individuals in Miami-Dade's communities. Last year, more than 300 students participated in 16 sites on HOPE Day.

HOPE kicked-off the day on the Bricks at the law school at 8 a.m. Both new and returning law students traveled to approximately 18 sites across Miami-Dade. Students engaged in a day of repairs, cleanups, and renovations, in addition to engaging with residents at various community shelters and programs. They also participated in activities with children, elderly, homeless families, and more. One team of eager volunteers headed to Parent to Parent of Miami. The organization helps parents of children with disabilities and special needs by providing information, peer support, parent skills-building workshops and advocacy.

"At the University of Miami School of Law, our students recognize that the privilege of a legal education comes with a responsibility to help others," said Marni Lennon, Assistant Dean for Public Interest and Pro Bono. "We are thrilled to kick off the academic year with the most far-reaching HOPE Day ever."

This event was presented as a day of community service grounded in the teachings of social justice and civic engagement. University of Miami students came together on this day to strengthen the community and bridge social barriers. For more information on the HOPE Public Interest Resource Center, click here.