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As we round out Pro Bono Month this October, we're excited to highlight our Wills for Heroes program, a testament to the impact of community volunteers and their unwavering commitment to Pine Tree's clients. This remarkable initiative brings together Maine veterans and compassionate volunteer private attorneys, to navigate essential estate planning matters, including wills, powers of attorney, and health care advance directives. Through this program, we honor the service of our veterans by ensuring their voices are heard, their wishes are respected, and their loved ones are protected.
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
Our statewide program is open to financially eligible veterans, their spouses, and surviving widows or widowers. We receive several referrals each month, primarily from VA social workers, underscoring the importance of this service.
ENGAGING ATTORNEYS
Our participating attorneys come from various backgrounds—some are veterans themselves—ranging from those with extensive experience in estate planning to newcomers in this area of law. To support their efforts, Pine Tree’s pro bono program offers periodic trainings on how to prepare basic estate planning documents and work effectively with veterans. Our most recent training drew over 40 participating attorneys in June!
INSPIRING CLIENT IMPACT
The families we’ve helped through the Wills for Heroes program have shared powerful stories. In some cases, veterans facing terminal illnesses have expressed concern over their affairs being in order, and expedited referrals to free attorneys have empowered them to protect their loved ones, providing invaluable peace of mind during stressful and vulnerable times. Others have reached out to create a will for the first time or revise outdated documents, often feeling uncertain about how to proceed or unable to afford comprehensive legal advice. Other veterans have sought to establish contingency plans for the guardianship of their minor children.
Whether veteran clients are homeowners or have few assets, they are eager to articulate their wishes and designate decision-makers through powers of attorney, ensuring their preferences are honored should they become incapacitated.
WELCOMING UNUM VOLUNTEERS
In the lead-up to this year’s Celebrate Pro Bono Week, several attorneys and other legal professionals from Unum joined our Wills for Heroes program. One of their first cases involved a disabled veteran in his 60s, who had created a will 40 years ago while serving in the Army but needed to update it due to significant life changes. After completing his case, he shared his gratitude with us:
“I just want to let you know that Sandra Livingston and her team at Unum did a fantastic job with my Last Will and Testament, Power of Attorney, and Separate Writing Disposal of Tangible Personal Property. They answered all of my questions clearly. Thank you for connecting me with them! I appreciate all you have done to make this possible!!”
He enthusiastically shared his intention to discuss our program with his American Legion post. The genuine appreciation voiced by his fellow veterans—woven into their heartfelt cards and uplifting messages—serves as a powerful testament to the meaningful impact our program has on their lives. Their gratitude doesn’t just warm our hearts; it ignites our commitment to continue advocating for those who have sacrificed so much.
A MEANINGFUL CONTRIBUTION
If you are an attorney and would like to learn more about the Wills for Heroes program or explore ways to get involved, we warmly invite you to reach out to us. Your involvement isn’t just an act of service; it holds the power to truly transform lives and pay tribute to the sacrifices made by our brave heroes.
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