The Nebraska Lawyers Foundation supports several programs that expand access to the justice system and work to strengthen the Nebraska legal profession.

One program is the Volunteer Lawyers Project (VLP). By connecting Nebraska lawyers with pro bono opportunities, VLP serves more than 7,000 low-income Nebraskans each year.

These services are more crucial than ever due to two 100-year historic natural calamities.

Last year, Nebraska lawyers were there to support those impacted by the historic flooding that impacted our state.

This year, we are assisting Nebraskans who are facing unique civil legal problems related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

We also recognize that the COVID-19 pandemic may negatively impact our members in these times of isolation and uncertainty. Another program supported by NLF is the Nebraska Lawyers Assistance Program (NLAP).

According to research, 20.6% of lawyers nationally report problematic alcohol use and 1 in 4 lawyers are struggling with some level of depression. NLAP provides confidential support, consultation and treatment referral for substance abuse, mental health and other issues which can impair a lawyer’s ability to serve their clients.

It is more critical than ever for us to support our colleagues in their time of need with these services.

We hope you will be able to join us on Aug. 8, 2020, at 8 p.m. for our live-streamed Galactic Gala Barrister’s Ball to honor three of our outstanding volunteers.

This is your opportunity to support these valuable programs by participating in our silent and live auction.

Jill Robb Ackerman is president of the Nebraska Lawyers Foundation and a partner at Baird Holm, where she represents individuals and businesses in complex business litigation in federal and state courts and arbitration proceedings,  corporate disputes, negligence actions, copyright, trademark, unfair competition, and computers and technology.