WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (Jan. 13, 2017) – Gunster, one of Florida’s oldest and largest full-service business law firms, is pleased to announce that the firm has been named one of the “50 Most Generous Companies of 2015-16” by the United Way of Palm Beach County.
“The companies listed all have one important thing in common: Above all else, they care," stated United Way’s Kim Jones, resource development committee chair. "In fact, they care enough to actively support the community where they live, work and play through fundraising and volunteerism.”
Being named alongside major corporations and local businesses alike is a big honor for Gunster. Since its beginning in 1925, a major aspect of the firm’s philosophy is to give back in ways that make a meaningful difference in the communities it serves. The attorneys and staff strive to stay deeply rooted to this principle.
“As we look back on 2016, we are proud of the efforts put forth by our firm to not only make Palm Beach County a better place, but to make Florida a better place for all of us," stated Managing Shareholder Bill Perry. "As Florida’s law firm for business, we recognize the important role businesses play in strengthening the communities in which we serve. We look forward to continuing to partner with a variety of charitable and nonprofit organizations in years to come.”
Some of many initiatives to which the firm contributed in 2016 include:
- Palm Beach Philanthropy Tank: Developed by Advisors for Philanthropic Impact, Palm Beach Philanthropy Tank provided an opportunity for Palm Beach County youth to secure mentoring and funding for breakthrough community betterment projects. Students identified social issues that confront our community and philanthropist-investors then funded the student initiatives. Wellington High School’s Daniel Clein received a $12,000 grant for his project to benefit the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital.
- Leadership Florida: Created in 1982 by the Florida Chamber of Commerce, Leadership Florida builds a sense of statewide community by identifying and training individuals with the passion and commitment to help make great things happen. Gunster attorneys regularly participate in the program and assume leadership roles within the organization.
- Broward Debate Initiative: The Broward County Debate Initiative is a partnership between local businesses and high school debate programs within Broward County. The initiative was implemented in the 2012-13 school year with just 15 high schools. Now, in 2016-17, debate is offered at 100 percent of the district’s middle and high schools. Gunster's Chairman of the Board George LeMieux (and former U.S. Senator) helped initiate and implement this program and remains actively engaged.
- Bay Area Legal Services: Bay Area Legal Services is a nonprofit, public interest law firm that provides civil legal assistance to low-income residents in the Tampa Bay region. Their annual Champions for Justice Appreciation event recognizes donors and supporters of BALS. In 2016, the event was held in honor of the late L. David Shear. Shear practiced at Gunster as a member of the firm’s corporate and real estate law practices in the firm's Tampa office.
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