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.
“Before my grandma died, she used to say, ‘Alyssa, do what you have to do to take care of the house.’”
Desmond Connall and Damaris Walker of Ballard Spahr helped our client settle unfair late fees and move into a new space.
Kim was uninsured at the time of her emergency brain surgery, and the hospital sued her for $13,000. Thanks to VIP, she doesn't owe a cent.
Virginia wanted to make a will, but she could not afford an attorney on her fixed income. Even worse: her home had a tangled title.
“I am grateful that programs like VIP exist. I am able to use an organization like VIP to receive pro bono advice from expert lawyers.”
“My goal is to set up my son’s future for the best things possible. Because of VIP and the help of volunteer attorneys, I can do that."
"My father and mother worked hard to own this house. They earned this house, there was no way I would let it go or sell it."