Think Immigration: Call to Action During the 2025 National Celebration of Pro Bono

Immigration lawyers in the US are facing new challenges on an almost daily basis. During challenging times, it can be hard to step back and take a moment to celebrate our wins and look forward to what work we can do in the future. Next week we’ll have the opportunity to do just that, during the National Celebration of Pro Bono October 19-25th.  

Since 2009 the ABA has championed the National Celebration of Pro Bono week, inspired by the Chicago Bar Foundations celebration of pro bono that began in 2005. Much like in 2009, in 2025 we are experiencing a moment where the pro bono needs are high and external conditions are creating a challenging environment to do this work. Despite this challenge, AILA members continue to rise to the challenge and support pro bono work. 

Pro Bono Work at AILA  

AILA has several initiatives that it participates in to promote pro bono work across the profession. We once again held the annual pro bono clinic at AC25 in Denver, in partnership with the Colorado Asylum Center. 25 AILA volunteers were able to assist over 50 migrants with the important first steps in their asylum applications. The pro bono clinic continues to serve as a critical way for us to give back to the communities where we gather.  

Even more recently, we marked the 20th annual Citizenship Day, celebrating two decades of collective service, empowerment, and impact. 26 AILA Chapters came together to provide free or low-cost assistance to lawful permanent residents applying for naturalization. The Chicago chapter held their biggest event ever, demonstrating the power of serving in a time of great need.  

AILA’s own pro bono program, the Military Assistance Program (MAP), has been no stranger to the increased demand. This year we have received a historic number of requests from service members seeking assistance for themselves and their families. A dedicated core of almost 300 AILA members continues to donate their time to provide this resource to our armed forces.  

Recognition is another critical part of our pro bono work. Every year chapters have the opportunity to award Pro Bono Champions to those who show an extraordinary commitment to pro bono work. This year was especially inspirational given the challenges faced by all those who work in immigration. We also heard from last year’s champions to get their stories and learn more about what pro bono means to them in the Pro Bono High Five series.  

How We’re Celebrating and Supporting Members in Pro Bono  

We’re in a moment where uncertainty has never been higher, and the demands are coming from all sides. Our hope is that this week can be a celebration of community and good work, a call to action, and a reminder that AILA is here to support.  

Next week we have a variety of stories, inspirational messages, tips and tricks, and opportunities to keep you going or get you started. Keep an eye out for something every day related to pro bono work. 

Support for pro bono continues well after this week is over though! The National Pro Bono Committee is committed to continuing this work and supporting chapters in what they are doing. AILA also continues to hold monthly well-being roundtables and creates resources to help you balance all aspects of your day-to-day practice. 

Call to Action  

Pro bono service is a defining characteristic of this profession and can have a transformative impact on your community. One of the results of the recently published AILA 2025 Practice Pulse shows a return to the pre-pandemic average of 25 pro bono service hours a year. While it is amazing to see an improvement, during this National Celebration of Pro Bono, we want to challenge those in the immigration profession to heed the recommendation of Rule of Professional Conduct 6.1 “A lawyer should aspire to render at least (50) hours of pro bono publico legal services per year.” 

While that goal is aspirational, the need has never been greater. We also know that most lawyers surveyed in the Practice Pulse noted that they have all the work they can handle or more than they can handle. This isn’t about guilt or over-extending yourself. It’s about finding creative ways to use the time and expertise that you have to do important work. You have an opportunity to use your skills and knowledge to keep families together, give individuals peace of mind, and even save lives.  

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AILA Pro Bono Week is presented by the AILA National Pro Bono Committee. For more information check out our page or email probono@aila.org