October marks Pro Bono Month, and we're thrilled for the opportunity to recognize the outstanding pro bono attorneys, paralegals, students, and community members who donate their time, talent, and expertise to make a difference in the lives of low-income Ohioans. So much of our work depends on the generosity and hard work of our fantastic pro bono attorneys, and we can't thank you enough for your dedication to our clients!

Outstanding Service by an Individual—Vivian Opelt

"The system of justice that we hope will be there for everyone is not readily available to those with minimal or no economic resources.

As legal professionals and as human beings, it is our duty to embark on the journey to provide equal justice."

—Vivian Opelt

Vivian Opelt's journey to becoming a dedicated pro bono legal advocate is rooted in a lifelong commitment to public service, compassion and justice. Raised in Columbus, Ohio, after her father's retirement from the U. S. Air Force, Vivian grew up in a household where education and service to others were deeply valued. "Public service and community were modeled by my public school teacher parents and by a social worker brother throughout my youth." 

After earning a degree in economics and finance from Ohio State, and working for six years in commercial finance, Vivian followed a long-held dream and enrolled in law school at Ohio State. "The seed to pursue the law was planted in high school when I read To Kill a Mockingbird", she said. Her favorite classes in law school included a civil law practicum and an interdisciplinary seminar in which law students collaborated with peers from other graduate programs to support clients in the community. After law school, Vivian worked for 31 years at Wendy's International, specializing in franchise transactions and litigation. During that time, her volunteer efforts were directed in animal rescue, and she helped to rescue, foster and find homes for around 100 cats and kittens. "That work was a true labor of love," she said. 

After retiring from Wendy's, Vivian began volunteering with LASCO in 2018. She praises LASCO's supportive environment: "They truly guide the volunteers every step of the way, with CLE and with hands-on support at clinics and otherwise." Her work has included estate planning for senior clients, immigration clinics, driver's license reinstatements and record sealing and expungement. "It has been truly awe-inspiring to participate in naturalization clinics in which clients realize that they are one-step closer to becoming U. S. citizens." Another memorable moment came at a record sealing clinic in which she was able to assist a client with sealing a few minor offenses from years earlier, Despite the client's struggles due to her record from years before, this client had taken in 4 siblings under the age of 10, and was raising them as her own and helping to improve their lives. "I was so inspired by her, and it re-doubled my desire to do as much as I could do for clients in these situations." 

Vivian believes that access to civil legal aid is essential for a fair society. "The system of justice that we hope will be there for everyone is not readily available to those with minimal or no economic resources," she said. " As legal professionals and as human beings, it is our duty to embark on the journey to provide equal justice." Candice Wooten, paralegal on the community engagement and pro bono team, shared: "Vivian's passion and dedication to help others truly shows in her volunteer work. Through our traveling clinics and case referrals she has helped so many of our clients in a variety of areas with such care and understanding. The clients are always so appreciative of her time and so are we." 

To those considering volunteering, Vivian offers heartfelt encouragement: "Just take a leap of faith and you will find something of interest.....Every one of us makes a difference." 

LASCO proudly recognizes Vivian Opelt as the recipient of the Outstanding Service by an Individual Pro Bono Award. Her compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to justice have made a lasting difference in the lives of countless clients. Thank you, Vivian, for your extraordinary service and for being a true champion of access to justice. 

Pro Bono Impact Award—Rod Reuscher, JPMorganChase

“It has helped me appreciate how fortunate I am, and that I can share that with others to hopefully improve their lives, if only in some small way."

—Rod Reuscher

Rod Reuscher has spent 30 years building a career in financial services at JPMorgan Chase, but one of his most meaningful investments is the time he has devoted to serving others as a long-time volunteer at Legal Aid of Southeast and Central Ohio’s brief advice clinics. 

Rod credits his parents with instilling the values that guide his volunteer efforts. “My interest in volunteering and the desire to help others comes from my mother, who was a very caring and compassionate person raising five children,” said the Cincinnati native. “It wasn’t until I became an adult that I truly started to appreciate the sacrifices they made for us.” 

For the past seven years, Rod has volunteered with LASCO, primarily supporting the intake process at brief advice clinics. His work has given him insight into a wide range of client issues. One memorable experience involved a client who believed they were being monitored and recorded. “It stands out because it showed how deeply some individuals are affected by their circumstances and how important it is to listen and respond with empathy.” Rod believes LASCO’s work is essential. “LASCO plays a critical role in the communities it serves, providing access to legal services for persons who otherwise may not have the resources to obtain reliable legal assistance.” He sees civil legal aid as a lifeline that can help individuals avoid adverse outcomes and improve their lives. 

Mary Gadd, LASCO’s senior attorney pro bono coordinator, expressed her admiration for Rod’s contributions, “Rod has been a true leader within JPMorgan Chase, not only championing our pro bono efforts but also actively volunteering at a wide range of our legal clinics,” said Gadd. “His empathy and patience make a lasting impact and embody the spirit of service we strive for.” For Rod, Volunteering has also changed his perspective. “It has truly raised my awareness of the struggles many endure and the many socio-economic inequities that exist,” he said. “It has helped me appreciate how fortunate I am, and that I can share that with others to hopefully improve their lives, if only in some small way.” Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family and friends or relaxing at home with a good TV series. 

To those considering pro bono work, Rod offers simple but powerful advice: “Just do it. No matter how much, how little, or the type of knowledge and experience you have to share, it can make a difference. I think you will find the personal rewards from helping others is well worth the time and effort.” 

LASCO proudly honors Rod Reuscher with the Individual Impact Pro Bono Award. His compassion, consistency, and commitment to helping others have made a real difference in the lives of countless clients. Thank you, Rod, for your outstanding service and for being a vital part of our mission to expand access to justice. 

Exceptional Service by a Law Firm or Corporation—Barnes & Thornburg

“Helping the communities we serve is key to our purpose of making dreams possible for everyone, everywhere, every day."

—Larsa Ramsini, Vice President and Assistant General Counsel

We’re excited to honor the JPMorganChase (JPMC) Legal team with the Exceptional Service by a Law Firm or Corporation Award, recognizing their remarkable commitment to pro bono work over the past decade. JPMC’sin-house legal team has consistently supported LASCO’s efforts, particularly in expungement and driver’s license reinstatement clinics.

Each year, JPMC designates its Day of Service to participate in these large-scale events in Columbus. For this year’s Day of Service, JPMC’s team played a vital role, alongside Taft Law, in staffing a one-day Work Permit Clinic for asylum applicants. The event engaged 31 JPMC team members and served as a testament to their continued dedication to community service. Additionally, the firm runs a monthly Brief Advice Clinic at the Bhutanese Community of Central Ohio, offering critical legal assistance to low-income immigrants and the broader Northland community. Most recently, 21 JPMC team members volunteered to help staff a one-day Driver’s License Reinstatement Clinic in Franklin County. The clinic served 518 clients, 100 of which left that day with a newly valid driver’s license.  

JPMorganChase’s commitment to pro bono work is rooted in the firm’s purpose of helping communities thrive. “Helping the communities we serve is key to our purpose of making dreams possible for everyone, everywhere, every day,” said Larsa Ramsini, Vice President and Assistance General Counsel with JPMC. Recognizing their role as legal professionals and community leaders, JPMC's legal team eagerly shares their knowledge and skills with those in need, working with LASCO to strengthen underserved communities in the region. These efforts are not only beneficial for the communities but also create a deeper connection between JPMC employees and the local issues that impact the region.

JPMC’s global Legal Pro Bono Program plays a significant role in creating and encouraging these volunteer opportunities. Regional sub-committees, composed of employee volunteers, support ongoing projects and create new avenues for engagement. The firm’s Legal Pro Bono Day of Service mobilizes hundreds over a thousand employees globally, focusing on diverse issues such as LGBTQ+ rights, record sealing, immigration, and voting rights. In addition, JPMorganChase awards a Legal Pro Bono Fellowship each year, allowing one legal professional to dedicate three to six months of full-time service at a legal services organization, further emphasizing the firm’s commitment to pro bono work.

Through its partnership with LASCO, JPMorganChase has made a lasting impact on the central Ohio community, helping both individuals and organizations while fostering a culture of service within its own ranks. “I'm so appreciative of how client-focused the staff at JPMC is,” said Dianna Parker, LASCO’s director of pro bono and community engagement. “They are always willing to adjust their involvement so the programming is efficient and works best for the people we're serving. As a group, they are always eager to jump in where needed and to learn new areas of law. They serve as an excellent example of corporate pro bono participation."

In the Trenches Award—Carol Rieger-Taylor, American Honda Motor Co., Inc

"Civil legal aid means an opportunity for the client where they may not have had one. It reinforces the need for these services and the support of the legal community."

—Carol Rieger-Taylor

Carol Rieger-Taylor’s path to the legal profession is a testament to perseverance and purpose. Raised in Anchorage, Alaska, she moved to the lower 48 after college, eventually settling in Ohio with her husband. She began her career at Honda in 2003 and steadily advanced through roles in compliance, procurement, and legal. In 2016, Carol pursued her law degree through Capital Law School's evening program, graduating and passing the bar in 2020. Today, she applies her legal training in Honda’s Law & IP Unit and dedicates her time outside of work to her family and volunteering with LASCO’s pro bono clinics. 

Carol’s interest in volunteering with LASCO's pro bono clinics began as a way to stay sharp after law school—but quickly became a passion. “Helping others has always been a core value of mine,” she said. “I also have a strong desire for continuous learning. Volunteering allows me to deepen my knowledge and stay engaged with new experiences.” She has volunteered across a wide range of LASCO clinics, including expungement and wills clinics. Her approach is grounded in empathy and connection. “I strive to connect with clients on a personal level. They genuinely appreciate not only the support but also the opportunity to talk.” 

Carol recalls many meaningful moments, including thoughtful conversations with clients about estate planning, record sealing, and driver's license reinstatement. One especially memorable experience involved helping a gentleman regain his driver’s license after decades without one. “We were both close to tears,” she shared. She sees LASCO’s work as vital. “Civil legal aid means an opportunity for the client where they may not have had one,” she said. “It reinforces the need for these services and the support of the legal community.” 

Mary Gadd, LASCO’s senior attorney pro bono coordinator, praised Carol for her dedication to helping at clinics, especially those focused on expungement. "Her gentle and friendly spirit puts clients at ease, and her sincere commitment to helping others is truly inspiring,” Gadd said. 

Carol also encourages others to get involved. “Providing these services offers immense value both to the client and to me. LASCO is incredibly supportive and helpful for anyone looking to explore new avenues and learn something different.” 

LASCO is proud to present Carol Rieger-Taylor with the In the Trenches Award. Her dedication, warmth, and steady presence have made a profound difference in the lives of those she serves. Thank you, Carol, for your generous contributions and for helping advance our mission to make justice accessible for all. 

Pro Bono Powerhouse Award—Frederick D. Benton, Jr., Frederick D. Benton, Jr., L.P.A.

"If we’re lucky enough to give back, even in small ways, it not only enhances others’ lives but enriches your own."

—Barry Wolinetz

Barry Wolinetz, winner of the 2024 Pro Bono Powerhouse Award, has been a steadfast volunteer at LASCO’s clinic at Jewish Family Services since its inception in 2015. His dedication over the past nine years has made him an invaluable asset to the clinic and its clients. With extensive experience in family law, Barry’s legal expertise has helped countless individuals navigate complex challenges. However, his commitment goes beyond his specialization—he is always willing to assist clients outside his practice area, ensuring that anyone who seeks help receives the guidance they need. 

Raised on the east side of Cleveland, Barry eventually settled in Columbus after completing his undergraduate, graduate, and law degrees at Ohio State University. He initially pursued a career in political science before shifting to law after becoming disillusioned with the PhD program. This decision, though unplanned, has allowed him to make a significant impact through both his legal career and his volunteer work.   

When asked about his decision to engage in pro bono work, Barry, a partner at Wolinetz, Horvath and Brown, talked about the importance of lending a helping hand. “There are trite sayings about paying it forward,” he said, “but the real motivating force is that we all need a helping hand. If we’re lucky enough to give back, even in small ways, it not only enhances others’ lives but enriches your own.”   

For him, civil legal aid is about more than just legal assistance—it’s about ensuring that vulnerable communities have access to the help they need to navigate difficult situations. Through his work with LASCO, Barry has been a source of hope and guidance for countless individuals, said Dianna Parker, Director of Pro Bono and Community Engagement for LASCO. “While Barry is particularly special because he is willing to speak to anyone, his family law experience is so helpful at our brief advice clinics, where many unrepresented litigants come for legal advice on what to do in their cases. We are so lucky to have Barry’s support at the JFS clinic.

Congratulations, Barry!

Outstanding Pro Bono Collaboration—Gretchen Lipari & Chad Dworkin, Nationwide

"Civil legal aid isn't just about providing legal representation; it's about offering a lifeline to those who might otherwise be left to navigate these complex challenges alone."

—Humphrey Kweminyi

"Civil legal aid isn't just about providing legal representation; it's about offering a lifeline to those who might otherwise be left to navigate these complex challenges alone."

—Humphrey Kweminyi