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GAQS Receives Top Law Firm Award from VLSH

Jun 15, 2007

VLSH Recognizes Dedicated Volunteers

Volunteer Legal Services Hawai’i (VLSH) held a special Kahiau luncheon today at the Plaza Club to recognize individuals and law firms that made a significant contribution of their time to various programs in 2006. The Hawai’ian word “Kahiau” was chosen to signify the spirit of selfless giving without an expectation of return demonstrated by the volunteers. The keynote speaker at the luncheon, recently appointed Chief Judge of the Intermediate Court of Appeals. Dale Lee, Chief Operating Officer of the William S. Richardson School of Law and Vice President of the VLSH Board of Directors, was also present and acted as Master of Ceremonies for the event. VLSH Executive Director Moya Gray said, “The support of our Board and the tremendous contribution of our volunteers allow us to continue providing legal assistance to the many who depend on us. This luncheon is just a small way to say “thank you” to everyone for their help and support.”

Among those recognized today were the late Judge John Lim, for his pioneering spirit as one of the founders of VLSH, and Ellen Politano and Sue Miller, winners of the Spirit of Kahiau Award. Both Politano and Miller cited the enormous personal gratification they derived from their volunteer work as part of the reason they keep volunteering. The relationships they build with those they help are also very enriching, they said. Other awards conferred included the Top Law Firm Award, which went to Goodsill Anderson Quinn & Stifel LLP, and the Top Pro Bono Firm Coordinator Award, given to Christopher Yeh of Marr Hipp Jones & Wang, LLP. Golden State Foods received Outstanding Corporate Sponsor, while many individuals received awards for their hours of service to those in dire need of legal assistance.

With over 25 years of service in Hawai`i, VLSH has hundreds of volunteers active in a variety of programs, from neighborhood legal and tax clinics to training and assistance programs for non-profits, the homeless and children. With a continuing mission to provide free or low-cost legal help to low-income residents and the non-profit organizations serving them, VLSH is always in need of new volunteers. Lawyers, law students, and others looking to contribute their services in this way are encouraged to visit VLSH on the web at or call Maria Dotterer at 522-0676.

For more information contact:
Moya Gray, Executive Director
[email protected]
Tel: (808) 528-7051

Permission to reprint given by Volunteer Legal Services Hawai’i, 100 Honuakaha Building, 545 Queen Street, Honolulu, HI  96813.

NOTE:  GAQS attorney, Joachim Cox, also received an individual award for 200+ hours for pro bono service.

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