Impact Stories
Proving a VIP Client’s Existence in the Eyes of the Law: A Pro Bono Challenge
April 2026
"As hard as it may be to believe, many Americans – particularly those born in rural areas in the South – were never issued birth certificates."
"As hard as it may be to believe, many Americans – particularly those born in rural areas in the South – were never issued birth certificates."
VIP brings together our city's small business owners, nonprofit leaders, and pro bono attorneys at legal clinics year-round.
Get to know the new members of VIP's Board: Ethan Heller, Marko Kipa, and the Hon. Viktoria Kristiansson.
“Before my grandma died, she used to say, ‘Alyssa, do what you have to do to take care of the house.’”
The Philadelphia VIP community is deeply saddened by the death of our friend and past Board President Lee Zimmerman on November 9, 2025.
"Lisa perfectly represented all that is good in the legal profession. More than her time or work product, she gave her heart to those she helped."
This article by Gregory S. Hyde and Denise E. Lynch was published in the Philadelphia Lawyer.
We celebrated our top volunteers and partners at our Annual Awards Night on May 15, 2025.
On May 15, we'll recognize Donna Brown, Gregory S. Hyde, Ryaan A. Ibtisam, Lisa Ann Zolna, Dechert, and Vanguard for their pro bono work.