At the core of our Excellence Awards is an inspiring unity. This unity is built upon the relentless dedication of advocates in our Network, the steadfast support of our private bar partners, and the collaborative spirit of community leaders. Together, their efforts transcend the boundaries of conventional legal support, illuminating the pathway towards justice and equality for Pennsylvania's marginalized and low-income residents.  

Our Excellence Awards pay tribute to the extraordinary impact of this work. Each year, we gather to celebrate the individuals, groups, and initiatives that, through their work, bring hope and justice to countless lives. In preparing for this year’s celebration on Wednesday, March 27, 2024, we are pleased to welcome nominations in honor those who have made this journey of justice possible.

2024 Nomination Information 

Do you know individuals, groups, or initiatives that echo the spirit of our mission? Now's the time to spotlight their invaluable contributions. Dive into the nomination categories below to understand where their efforts fit best:  

The following awards are presented annually to dedicated members currently serving within the Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network: 

Outstanding Attorney Advocate Award

Honoring an attorney within our Network, this award pays tribute to exceptional advocacy, leadership, and dedication to advancing justice and equity. Recipients exemplify the pinnacle of commitment and compassion in the equal justice community.

Submit Your Nomination – Click here to access and complete the nomination form. 

Outstanding Non-Attorney Advocate Award

Celebrating the indispensable contributions of non-attorney staff, this award recognizes those working in fiscal, communications, development, intake, outreach, technology, administrative and paralegal positions, and others who, with steadfast advocacy and an enduring spirit of service, leave indelible marks on their community.

Submit Your Nomination – Click here to access and complete the nomination form.

Outstanding Systemic Advocacy Award

This award spotlights transformative projects and initiatives undertaken by the programs in our Network. Rather than individual accolades, this distinction is reserved for the far-reaching impact and merits of the systemic advocacy efforts themselves.

Submit Your Nomination – Click here to access and complete the nomination form.

Emerging Excellence in Advocacy Award

The Emerging Excellence in Advocacy Award honors a legal professional from our Network who, within their first 5 years of practice or less, has already made significant strides in championing the rights of the underrepresented and marginalized. The impact of their work underscores the potential for change and heralds a more just legal future.

Submit Your Nomination – Click here to access and complete the nomination form. 

Each year, we also recognize the contributions of individuals and groups beyond the boundaries of the Pennsylvania Legal Aid Network with the following awards:

Outstanding Pro Bono Advocacy Award

This award pays tribute to private bar associations, attorneys, law firms, and judges, who have significantly advanced legal aid for Pennsylvania's underserved communities, either through the provision of pro bono services or by increasing funding for legal aid through class action residual distributions. Nominees must be licensed to practice in Pennsylvania and not be employed by free or low-cost legal service providers.

Submit Your Nomination – Click here to access and complete the nomination form.

Outstanding Community Advocacy Award

This award celebrates clients, community leaders, legislators, and non-attorney volunteers who amplify our mission. Recipients advocate for and empower those around them, and their efforts stand as a testament to the profound impact community figures make daily.

Submit Your Nomination – Click here to access and complete the nomination form. 

Nominations will be accepted until midnight on Friday, October 27, 2023. 

For further information about this year's Excellence Awards, please visit the event page on our website. Check out highlights from last year’s 50th Anniversary Excellence Awards & Golden Gala Celebration or browse a list of prior award recipients, including recipients of the former Striving Towards Excellence Awards.