There was a celebratory spirit in the room as 47 D.C.-area law firms gathered Friday at K&L Gates LLP for the Capital Area Food Bank’s Food From the Bar awards ceremony. The reception, sponsored by LexisNexis, marked the close of a successful month-long donation campaign that yielded a record breaking $275,000.
“Leadership matters,” said CAFB President and CEO Nancy E. Roman as she described the “exponential” growth and success of Food From the Bar since its inaugural campaign in 2008. “This campaign could not have come at a better time. The summer is no vacation from hunger for children who lose access to free and reduced lunch programs at school and rely on summer meal programs supported by the Capital Area Food Bank.”
The dedication of the leadership behind Food From the Bar was apparent. Executive co-chairs Tim Sullivan (Thompson Coburn) and Kelly Fisher (Koonz McKenney, the Women’s Bar Association) reported that the record-setting amount raised just one month will be used to help provide nearly 680,000 meals. Honorary Committee Members Carl Vacketta (DLA Piper) and DC Council Chairman Phil Mendelson were also on hand to celebrate the success.
Though it began in 2008 with just 13 firms raising $55,000, the support of the executive committee and sponsorship from the National Law Journal have facilitated its growth as one of the most important annual campaigns, and has helped provide more than 2.6 million meals since its first year.
The Capital Area Food Bank would like to express its deepest thanks to those who participated by donating their time and money. The dedication of everyone involved reflects the strength of the community and the results will help make more than 680,000 meals possible this summer.
Complete List of Award Recipients:
Best All Around – Thompson Coburn
Kickoff Award – Arnold & Porter
Creativity Award – Bryan Cave
Cornucopia Award – Freddie Mac
Spirit Award – Akin Gump
Finish Line Award – Groom Law Group
Small Firm Achievement (less than 50 employees) / Highest Per Capital Award – Cassidy Levy Kent
Mid-sized Firm Achievement – Bracewell LLP
Overall Winner – DLA Piper