Press Release

Haynes Boone Leads Houston's Legal Community, Raising $174,000 for United Way

May 13, 2024
Haynes Boone is proud to announce it raised around $174,000 for United Way of Greater Houston, more than any other law firm in the area’s 2024 campaign.

On top of the overall fundraising total, the Houston and Woodlands offices also boast the largest number of Alexis de Tocqueville donors (those contributing $10,000 or more) and the highest number of Young Leaders (people under 45 years old who donated $1,000 or more).

“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity and dedication of our partners, associates and staff who contributed to this outstanding achievement,” said Haynes Boone partner Jesse Gelsomini, also a member of the United Way’s board of directors.

“Supporting United Way allows us to invest in critical programs that empower individuals and families across Houston, making a real difference in the lives of those who need it most,” said Valisa Berber-Thayer, the firm’s campaign co-chair.

This year's fundraising total is a significant 3 percent increase over the previous year. The donations further United Way’s mission of creating opportunities for people in the region to prosper through comprehensive programs focused on creating equity, financial stability, early childhood and youth development, health care and safety net assistance. Since its founding, Haynes Boone has had a firm commitment to public service and supporting local communities around the world.

"We are profoundly grateful to Haynes Boone for being our top Law Initiative campaign for 2023-2024,” said Amanda McMillian, president and CEO, United Way of Greater Houston. "Because of the support of the Haynes Boone team, families and individuals in our community will be able to get on a path towards financial stability. Together, we are strengthening our community and making a tangible difference in the lives of our neighbors across Greater Houston."

In addition to the success in Houston, Haynes Boone's Dallas office significantly contributed earlier this year to United Way’s efforts, raising $105,023 on top of a $25,000 firm gift, bringing the total to $130,023.

About Haynes Boone
Founded in 1970, Haynes Boone provides a full spectrum of legal services across multiple sectors, including energy, financial services, private equity and technology. The firm’s nearly 700 lawyers practice in 19 offices in California, Colorado, Illinois, New York, North Carolina, Texas, Virginia and Washington, D.C., as well as London, Mexico City and Shanghai. Haynes Boone was recognized in the 2022 BTI Consulting Group’s A-Team report, which identified firms commended by in-house counsel for superior client service, and it was ranked 21st in The American Lawyer’s 2023 Diversity Scorecard, which evaluated 228 participating firms by the diversity of their attorney populations. For more information, visit haynesboone.com.

About United Way of Greater Houston
United Way of Greater Houston connects people with possibility. We unite donors, volunteers and community partners in support of a focused plan to remove barriers on the path to financial stability for families and individuals. Programs focused on financial stability, early childhood and youth development, and physical and behavioral health care help our neighbors land on their feet and stay there. These programs are supported by a foundation of basic needs assistance and help for those escaping violence. For families and individuals who are ready, our individualized approach includes navigators to guide them as they access multiple services on their unique journey to financial stability. United Way also connects our neighbors with help, hope and critical resources 24/7/365 through the 211 Texas/United Way HELPLINE. A focus on equity is integral to United Way’s work and program investments are evaluated on how diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging is incorporated into policies, practices and service delivery. Our community investments are backed by research, ensured by good stewardship and deliver results. For more information, visit www.unitedwayhouston.org.
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