Pro bono Services
Transforming businesses from obstacles to prosperity
Stephen J. Homola
In my life there are those who took an interest and have surrounded me with the grace of their giving and compassion. I have had teachers, coaches, professors, mentors, co-workers, family, associates, and friends. They were the ones who challenged me beyond my wildest expectations. When times were difficult, I learned the true identity of "a helping hand". I, therefore, am obligated to pay forward to those who are temporarily in need of any special skills or talents that I can assist in a helping hand.
BMCS recognizes that it has a social responsibility to donate some of its time toward the assistance of helping others. We base our philosophy on donating 25% of our time to Pro bono activities. It is our way of nurturing the seed of possibilities toward a deserving cause.
Pro bono publico (usually shortened to pro bono) is a phrase derived from Latin meaning "for the public good". The term is generally used to describe professional work undertaken voluntarily and without payment as a public service. It is common in the legal profession and is increasingly seen in marketing, technology, and strategy consulting firms. Pro bono service, unlike traditional volunteerism, uses the specific skills of professionals to provide services to those who are unable to afford them.
Pro bono work never ceases to remind me of my responsibility to Help someone who cannot return the favor!
Here is my reasoning:
Pro bono and community service is just the right thing to do.
Pro bono work exercises our common sense of values.
Pro bono often is used in the most challenging of circumstances; pro bono cases sharpen our counseling skills to be more effective for all clients.
Pro bono work never ceases to remind me that life is a gift and in giving we abundantly receive.
The variety of experience cannot be duplicated elsewhere.
Pro bono work provides an opportunity to expand our skill toolbox. This may mean practicing in an entirely new area – a trademark attorney may take on a political asylum case; a labor attorney may represent a battered woman in a family law proceeding: a business leader can assist in making the dream of a business succeed. Learning about new areas and ideas within the entrepreneurial spirit can be energizing, keeping one fresh and engaged.
Pro bono work can also provide opportunities, which may be difficult to come by in our primary practice. The seasoned professional who has never advocated to start a business that is patently new and different. To continue learning by practicing new skills and/or new areas of entrepreneurship can be thrilling.
As one considers pro bono opportunities, we dwell on what makes us most excited and follow that lead to find work, which fits that passion. There is no shortage of need in the world, now more than ever, and the rewards always surprise.
A great deal of pro bono work puts me in direct contact with an individual client. This connection is invigorating and reminds me that my ideals remain intact.
Since the Pro bono is available, we get to choose the client!
And finally, a well chosen pro bono project makes everyone feel good! We would not take a pro bono job for any other reason. We will never justify working for an organization we do not agree with. We bring our heart to the deserving. Because when we sit at a hiring table, we will be able to say “We are committed to making a difference and truly representing the voice of your project!”
