The Pennsylvania Bar Foundation, the 501(c)(3) charitable affiliate of the Pennsylvania Bar Association, was incorporated in 1984 in response to the organized bar’s desire to increase its involvement in public service. The Foundation’s financial support is generated almost exclusively through voluntary contributions.
Our mission is to enhance public understanding of the law, strengthen appreciation for democracy, and ensure that all citizens—particularly Pennsylvania’s most vulnerable—have full access to the legal system. We achieve this by awarding grants, seeking financial support from individuals and organizations both within and beyond the legal community, and encouraging bar members to donate their time, talent, and expertise in service to the public.
Governing Structure
The Foundation is managed by a Board of Directors consisting of 22 voting members. Elected Directors may serve a maximum of two consecutive three-year terms, while all other directors hold office for one year.
The Board is composed of:
- 12 elected Directors
- Two Directors appointed by the President-elect of the Pennsylvania Bar Association to serve during the President-elect’s term (who need not be lawyers)
- The President of the Pennsylvania Bar Association
- The Immediate Past Chair of the Young Lawyers Division of the Pennsylvania Bar Association
- The President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Secretary of the Foundation
- The Immediate Past President of the Foundation
- One Director appointed by the Foundation President (who need not be a lawyer)
The Foundation has committees that carry out our mission, most of which meet virtually. Your energy, talent, and expertise would be a valuable addition to these efforts.
The Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws guide the Foundation’s Board of Directors, along with the Board Member Commitment and Expectations. The Board meets quarterly, relying on its Executive Committee to address management issues between meetings.
Get Involved
Join the ranks of Members of the PA Bar Foundation today! Choose from any membership category that aligns with your level of support. Full membership meetings are held annually in conjunction with the Pennsylvania Bar Association’s Annual Meeting.
Use our online pledge form, call (888) 238-3036, or email [email protected] to learn how you can become a Foundation Fellow or make a contribution.