Honoring four retiring heroes of pro bono volunteerism

Order the cake and bubbly–four pillars of pro bono volunteerism are entering well-deserved retirement. JUF’s Evelyn R. Greene Legal Services program is honoring these committed volunteers who happen to all be retiring from practice this year: Howard Golden, Wayne Shapiro, Ian Sherman, and Lisa Zebovitz.

The legal clinic provides people in need of legal help with free representation by depending on volunteer attorneys who donate their time and expertise. Chicago Volunteer Legal Services partners with JUF to provide administrative support, training, and malpractice insurance to these generous volunteers.

Founded in 1981, the clinic first strove to address the legal needs of the Russian-speaking Jewish immigrant community. Now expanded to help any low-income family in need, it still serves as a critical resource to the Jewish community, and its volunteers act as examples of skilled altruism.

Howard Golden

Calm and thorough, wise and generous, Howard Golden has given freely of his talents and time to the legal clinic since its founding. Dedicated to supporting his community, he patiently guided his clients, who in turn adored him. Additionally, he served as a mentor for other attorneys with the clinic, teaching future pro bono advocates the ropes. Known to enjoy Biking the Drive, the clinic wishes Golden only fair-weather rides and magnificent views in the years to come.

Wayne Shapiro

When asked what inspired him to perform pro bono work, Wayne Shapiro was quick to point out that the Supreme Court calls upon all attorneys to give back to the community. And yet, few rise to the challenge the way Shapiro has. During his time volunteering with the clinic, Shapiro could handle any case thrown at him, no matter how thorny. Now happily retired from practice, he flexes his architectural knowledge as a volunteer docent of architectural walking tours of Chicago.

Ian Sherman

One of the legal clinic’s first volunteers, Ian Sherman has served the clinic for over three decades. His successes for clients have often been lauded as victories for the underdog. A true advocate for justice, Sherman is a superb example of using his talents to strengthen our community, protecting the most vulnerable. In retirement, he will divide his time between Michigan and Arizona.

Lisa Zebovitz

Lisa Zebovitz is a champion of creative solutions, finding resolution even in dark situations. She originally approached the clinic with hopes of representing clients in family law mediations, a practice many lawyers shy from as a challenge. During her years with the clinic, Zebovitz stood out for representing elders in the important task of drafting estate planning documents. Her clinic clients reported their delight with her careful legal work and how easy it was for them to speak to her.

Anyone interested in following in the footsteps of these inspirational pro bono lawyers, please contact JUF’s Evelyn R. Greene Legal Services clinic at 847-568-1525 to learn more about volunteer opportunities.

Jessica Rhoades is a Legal Liaison for JUF’s Evelyn R. Greene Legal Services.