Hello!

This month, PILI’s community showed up in a big way—bringing energy, commitment, and real impact to our work expanding access to justice across Illinois.

In this issue, we’re excited to share highlights from Arcade for Legal Aid 2026, where the community came together to raise nearly $35,000 in support of PILI’s work across the state.

You’ll also find updates on new funding from the Rossotti Family Foundation, opportunities to participate in upcoming Virtual Pro Bono CLE Series programming, and information on how to certify your law firm or corporation for PILI’s 2026 Pro Bono Recognition Roster.

We also celebrated National Volunteer Week last week, spotlighting the individuals who make our work possible—from our leadership groups to pro bono volunteers serving communities across Illinois.

We also invite you to explore other upcoming programs and events, including our Annual Pro Bono Reception on June 24.

Thank you for being part of the PILI community!

Sincerely,

The Staff at PILI

News & Updates


Arcade for Legal Aid Raises Nearly $35,000 to Support Access to Justice Across Illinois

Arcade for Legal Aid 2026 brought together the legal community for an evening of connection, energy, and impact—raising nearly $35,000 to support PILI’s work expanding access to justice across Illinois. Hosted by the Young Professionals Board, this year’s event saw strong growth in sponsorship and engagement, with an incredible atmosphere that reflected the power of coming together for a shared cause. Read more »

PILI Receives its First-Ever Grant from Rossotti Family Foundation to Support Access to Justice
PILI has received a $10,000 grant from the Rossotti Family Foundation, marking the first time the Foundation has supported our work. This funding will help expand access to justice by supporting a summer Law Student Intern and Illinois Free Legal Answers workshops in Chicago, strengthening both immediate legal services and the future pipeline of public interest attorneys. Read more »

Certification Open for the 2026 Pro Bono Recognition Roster
Law firms and corporations across Illinois are invited to submit their self-certification for PILI’s 2026 Pro Bono Recognition Roster. The deadline to submit certifications is May 15th. Those recognized will be honored at the Annual Pro Bono Reception on June 24th at the Ivy Room in Chicago. Read more »

Join us for our next program in the Virtual Pro Bono CLE Series

Learn how to support veterans seeking discharge upgrades and gain the tools to confidently handle these impactful cases. Our next session, “Handling Discharge Upgrades for Veterans,” will be held on May 8th from 12:00 to 3:00 p.m. via Zoom. Attendees will receive 2.75 hours of MCLE credit (pending approval) and learn how discharge status can affect access to critical benefits and services. Sign up here »

Other Upcoming Programs & Events

• May 1st - ISBA Law Day 2026 Illinois Free Legal Answers Virtual Workshop
• May 8th - Virtual Pro Bono CLE Series: Handling Discharge Upgrades for Veterans
• May 12th - Power of Attorney Clinic in Mt. Vernon - Volunteers Needed
• June 2nd - PILI Law Student Intern & Graduate Fellow Orientation
• June 3rd - Third Judicial Circuit Pro Bono Committee Daylong CLE
• June 17th - PILI Alumni, Interns & Fellows Volunteer Opportunity – The Sharehouse
• June 24th - Annual Pro Bono Reception