Letter from the Executive Director

This year marked a period of meaningful transition for PBPA. We bid farewell to two long-time staff members, Robyn Miller and Jessica Caldas, whose dedication and contributions over the years have been invaluable. At the same time, we welcomed two exceptional new team members, Thomas Federico and Carey Stadler, whose fresh perspectives and expertise are strengthening our ability to support Georgia’s nonprofit community. 

Looking ahead, 2025 marks a significant milestone for PBPA—our 20th anniversary. Over the past two decades, we have had the privilege of partnering with thousands of nonprofit organizations and legal volunteers who make our work possible. PBPA’s legal support strengthens our clients and focuses their resources on their critical programs serving refugees, veterans, individuals experiencing homelessness, survivors of domestic violence, those facing food insecurity, and more. Together, we are making our communities stronger, safer, and more equitable places to live.  
 
As we celebrate this anniversary, we reflect on the profound impact we have made together while looking ahead to new challenges for nonprofits on the horizon. As 2025 brings new rules, regulations, and legal issues impacting nonprofit organizations, PBPA remains dedicated to stewarding our nonprofit community with high-quality and specialized legal support and education.  

In support of this work, please consider a donation to PBPA this year-end. Your gift of any amount will give peace of mind to nonprofit organizations who have become stronger because of PBPA and who will rely on our support in the future.  

Happy Holidays, 

Rachel Spears
Executive Director

New Staff

We'd like to welcome Thomas Federico (Staff Attorney) and Carey Stadler (Program Manager) to the PBPA team!

Throughout his Atlanta-based in-house career, Thomas was a volunteer attorney for PBPA, so he has now come full circle and is honored to be helping local nonprofits fulfill their missions.

Prior to joining PBPA, Carey worked and volunteered for various nonprofits, including The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and Atlanta Volunteer Lawyers Foundation. She is thrilled to once again support the generous legal community in metro Atlanta.

See their bios here!

Shoutouts to our Volunteers

Thank you to the more than 900 volunteers who have signed up for a pro bono project in 2024! We could not do this work without you.

Click here for a list of individuals who have volunteered so far this year.

From: Friends Of Refugees
To: Justin Stephens ( Eversheds Sutherland), Daven Douglas (Eversheds Sutherland), and Abbey Morrow (Cox Enterprises)
Thank you all for spending your time (and brainpower!) with us at the PBPA legal clinic the other day! Thanks for listening carefully to all our questions and providing helpful guidance. Joe, April, Marissa and I all left feeling more equipped and RELIEVED that we're not alone in having to navigate these complex topics. Thank you for empowering us to do our work better. We truly appreciate your partnership and send you all a huge thanks for your time, attention and talent! 

From: Community Friendship, Inc. 
To: Tyler Dysart (King & Spalding)
On behalf of Community Friendship, I want to extend our heartfelt thanks for the invaluable pro bono support you provided us. Your expertise and guidance were instrumental in navigating the legal complexities we faced with this garnishment case.  We are truly grateful for your generosity and commitment to our mission.  Your efforts not only strengthen our organization but also inspired us to continue our work with renewed passion knowing we have the support of PBPA.  

From: The Breman Museum 
To: Karyn Heavenrich (Equifax)
Thank you SO much for your amazing assistance with our 3-way artists’ contract! We really appreciate your expert and timely help with getting us on our way. The contract will allow us to host international artists and it was an essential step in applying for Scholar Visas.

Client Profile: Diamond In The Rough

Dr. Nicole Steele founded Diamond In The Rough in 2006 as an organization dedicated to providing girls with a safe space to be nurtured, empowered, and equipped throughout the beginning of their lives. Dr. Steele’s philosophy is that every girl, like a diamond, is unique and beautiful. Inspired by the adults who supported and guided her during adolescence, Dr. Steele explains that “mentoring is the heartbeat of what we do at Diamond In The Rough.” 

Diamond In The Rough first became a client of PBPA in 2007, not long after both organizations were founded. As one of Diamond In The Rough’s first partners, Dr. Steele recognizes PBPA as “an extension of our team.” PBPA and its volunteer attorneys have helped Diamond In The Rough with about 20 legal matters including corporate documents, contracts and trademark and copyright advice. Dr. Steele celebrates the forward-thinking advantage PBPA has provided Diamond In The Rough over the years.

 Click here to read more about Diamond in the Rough

New Pro Bono Partnership Of Atlanta Clients
One World Link, Inc.
Christian Women's Center
Los Niños Primero, Inc.
A Home For Everyone In DeKalb, Inc.
BLKHLTH INC.
Noble Truth Project, Inc.
Zaban Paradies Center for Homeless Couples Inc.
Hugs for Harrison, Inc
The Charis Circle, Inc.
Rock Goodbye Angel
Camp Amplify, Inc.
Leap Year, Inc.
Boys and Girls Clubs of North Central Georgia, Inc.
The Next IT Girl