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Did you know that AYLA used to plan monthly community service and volunteer opportunities prior to 2020? Obviously, something happened. While the needs and opportunities have not decreased, the interest and support has most definitely. Speaking and working with executive directors and boards, it is no secret that volunteer and interest in service have decreased in the past years. There are obvious factors and global events that probably shifted mindsets and availability. Instead of focusing on what happened, I’d like to discuss the importance of service as advocates, and the positive impact it has not only on the organizations that are being supported, but also on the individuals taking the time to serve others.
The Personal Benefits of Volunteering and Community Service
Adding one more thing to your plate may be the last thing you want to do. However. I’d like readers to consider the benefits of volunteering, which include things like easing some of the stress, connecting with others, and growing. Personally, I’ve always been drawn to public service and volunteering. I love doing it because it makes me feel good to help other people. I’ve observed it starts at a young age, as my toddlers are very interested in being helpers with everything. Without getting too far into the scientific details, there is some connection between volunteering and a sense of purpose, reduced stress, and increased overall happiness.
Uniquely, volunteering with AYLA is an opportunity to benefit by spending time with colleagues of all areas and practices of law and the judiciary. Not only do you get to work with them outside of a courtroom or formal setting, but you also get to connect in serving the public together. It parallels our roles as advocates and attorneys, but often a less stressful environment than a courtroom or at a formal event filled with elevator pitches. Not only do young lawyers benefit from an opportunity to meet members of the judiciary, but there are also opportunities to meet with and get to know attorneys in other practice areas.
Many of the service events involve organizing or cleaning, which requires teamwork and conversation. Sorting clothes, wrapping gifts, and learning to prepare garden soil present a fun way to talk with other attorneys, get to know more about the profession, and create new connections—all while making a difference in the community together.
The Vital Role of Supporting Local Non-Profits
For young lawyers, financially donating to a non-profit organization may not be in the cards, but when able, it is one way to make a difference and support causes that you may be personally interested in or connected to. Financial support gives you the ability to choose who and what you support. Usually a little goes a long way, with the example of the Central Texas Food Bank and how they are able to amplify donations to have a more expansive impact than if you donated food items.
Looking ahead, many attorneys find themselves asked to serve on non-profit boards or become interested in joining one after they find a cause they want to support passionately. Volunteering for events with AYLA is a great way to get introduced to a variety of local non-profits and personally connect with the work they are doing as a volunteer. Following up with or supporting the organizations AYLA partners with after a service event isn’t required, but you never know what might spark your interest or touch your heart unless you take the opportunity to explore what’s out there and discover new ways to help. Not only are you supporting a nonprofit that uplifts our community, but you’re also making a direct difference in the lives of individuals who rely on its services. You become a part of the impact that the organization is having.
Any Time Spent Volunteering, Supporting, or Donating Makes a Difference
“You cannot get through a single day without having impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.” – Jane Goodall
There may be times when things feel overwhelming or that nothing, no matter what you do, will make a difference. The truth is that any time spent volunteering, supporting, or donating to causes dedicated to serving others has a positive impact and ripple effect. Your taking the time to show up, put in the work, and connect with the organizations makes a huge difference. One of the ways that I navigate the feelings of not being able to solve every problem or being overwhelmed by everything going on is to recognize and acknowledge that every intentional act of service and kindness, no matter how big or small, makes a difference.
Recently, one of our time’s greatest philanthropists, Jane Goodall, passed away at the age of 91. She lived a life dedicated to the service and care of others and was an inspiration to millions. Among her many beautiful and inspiring words, these stuck out to me as I was writing this article and feeling quite small with everything going on in the world: “You cannot get through a single day without having impact on the world around you. What you do makes a difference, and you have to decide what kind of difference you want to make.”
If you find yourself feeling like you can’t do a single thing to make a difference outside of your work as an advocate, know that you can and do. And when you decide you are ready to make a bigger difference, AYLA is here for you.
AYLA’s motto is “Justice through Service.” While we may not currently offer monthly volunteer opportunities, we still have wonderful options to serve together as a legal community.
November 22: Join us for our Tailgate for a Cause, benefiting the Partnerships for Children Holiday Wishes Program.
December 7: We will be volunteering with Partnerships for Children to wrap gifts and assist with distribution preparations.
January 19, 2026: AYLA will organize the 16th-annual Day of Service on MLK Day, teaming up with multiple legal organizations to support and volunteer for non-profits in the community.
In the past, we have worked with organizations such as We Are Blood, Central Texas Food Bank, Austin Animal Center, SAFE, Casa Marianella, Center for Child Protection, and many others.
The AYLA Community Service Days and Day of Service Committee are always looking for new members to bring fresh ideas and perspectives. Each event is a chance to serve, grow, and connect. AYLA would love for you to join us as we serve our community together and make a meaningful difference. If you’re motivated and ready to serve, you can find more information on the above events and others at ayla.org. We hope to see you soon.