Record Support for Law Student Scholarships and Pro Bono Services

Record Support for Law Student Scholarships and Pro Bono Services

By Mary Ann Lambert, Development Director

King County Bar Foundation’s annual Breakfast With Champions raised a record-breaking $380,000 this year in support of local minority law student scholarships and pro bono legal services that expand access to justice across the community.

The event brought together attorneys, judges, law firms, corporate leaders, and community supporters for the Foundation’s signature fundraising event. Proceeds support the scholarship program for local law students, as well as pro bono legal programs serving thousands of low-income and vulnerable residents throughout King County.

One of the event speakers, Seattle University School of Law 3L student Elias Gonzales, reflected on the broader responsibility of the legal profession and the importance of access to justice.

“It’s our responsibility to ensure that the law does not just exist on paper, but it is something that is real,” Gonzales told attendees.

A highlight of the program was the story of a client, Laura, from KCBA’s Kinship Care pro bono legal program, illustrating the life-changing impact of legal assistance for caregivers and families navigating complex legal systems. Laura described the organization’s legal services as “a calm in the midst of the legal storm.”

The program underscored how community support helps stabilize families and improve long-term outcomes for children and caregivers, while also strengthening the rule of law through direct legal service.

This year’s event also celebrated the broad support of the legal and business communities, with sponsorship from dozens of law firms, corporations, and community partners. Amazon served as the event’s Keynote-Level sponsor, with additional major support from Davis Wright Tremaine LLP, Fox Rothschild LLP, Perkins Coie, and many others across the legal profession.

Funds raised through Breakfast With Champions directly support KCBF’s ongoing efforts to expand access to justice, invest in future legal leaders, and provide critical legal assistance to community members who otherwise could not afford representation.

KCBF expressed gratitude to all attendees, sponsors, donors, and volunteers whose support made the event a success.