MBF Fellows & Donors

THE ROLE OF A FELLOW

MBF Fellows set the highest standard among their peers by taking an active role in meeting the critical need of our fellow citizens for legal assistance. With membership numbering over 1,400 strong, MBF Fellows serve as the driving force of all of the Foundation's efforts and successes. They govern the Foundation through the board of trustees and various active committees. Fellows are invited to participate in the annual grantmaking process, special events, and development activities to support the MBF's mission. MBF Fellows also provide vital support to the Foundation through their contributions to the Fellows Fund. Support from this fund enables the MBF to continue its charitable activities, to fund fellowships for law student interns, and to fund innovative law-related initiatives.

Contribution Levels

Fellows pledge to contribute a minimum of $1,500 to the Foundation's Fellows Fund, payable in affordable annual installments over ten years. Upon fulfillment of their pledge, Fellows are designated Life Fellows of the Foundation.

Prospective Fellows may select from the following pledge levels:

Foundation Fellow - $1,500
Louis D. Brandeis Fellow - $2,500
Oliver Wendell Holmes Fellow - $5,000
President's Circle/ Bronze Fellow - $10,000
President's Circle/ Silver Fellow - $25,000
President's Circle/ Gold Fellow - $50,000
President's Circle/ Platinum Fellow - $75,000

For Fellows who wish to build upon their initial contributions, all previous Fellows contributions may be applied to the Brandeis, Holmes and President's Circle pledge levels.

CLICK HERE to read or download the MBF Society of Fellows Brochure.

CLICK HERE to access a PDF of the pledge form to print and mail.

CLICK HERE to make your pledge online.

The MBF Justice Circle

As an alternative to pledge support, donors may consider joining the MBF Justice Circle by committing to give an annual gift to the Foundation in perpetuity. All Justice Circle members will be honored with the respective designations as they achieve each giving level listed above.

CLICK HERE to join the MBF's Justice Circle.

WHY SHOULD I BECOME A FELLOW?

Unprecedented Need

Despite combined funding from federal, state, and private sources, a recent study estimates that only 13.8 percent of Massachusetts residents living in poverty had all their civil legal needs met. Every day, legal services providers must turn away eligible clients due to lack of resources. The MBF continues to receive requests for support that far exceed its funding capacity. MBF Fellows are committed to reversing this trend and increasing access to justice for all members of the Commonwealth.

Giving Back to the Profession

Members of the Massachusetts legal profession have demonstrated an extraordinary commitment to giving back to the community in appreciation for all that the legal profession has given them. Becoming a Fellow is an ideal way to directly help people and help the profession at the same time. In addition, a Fellows pledge can help to fulfill the mandate of Rule 6.1 of the Massachusetts Rules of Professional Conduct for those aspiring to do so.

Expert Grantmaking

The MBF's highly efficient and effective system of grant making and grant monitoring is often used as a model for other bar foundations and funders across the country. With decades of experience in the Massachusetts legal community, the MBF understands legal needs across the state, and can direct your contributions where they are most critically needed and will create the highest impact.

Volunteer Opportunities

As a Fellow, you will be offered the opportunity to participate in governance, fundraising, and the annual grantmaking process. Each year, more than 125 Fellows participate in reviewing grant applications to ensure that grant funds are distributed effectively and judiciously to programs throughout Massachusetts. The MBF can also help you connect with pro bono and other civic volunteer opportunities through its large network of nonprofit grantees.

Publicity & Networking Opportunities

In addition to being acknowledged in several MBF publications each year, Fellows are invited to participate in all MBF events. These include the Annual Meeting, Grantee Receptions, and other networking opportunities offered throughout the year.

Tax-Deductible Contributions

Since the MBF is a charitable, nonprofit organization under IRS code 501(c)3, all contributions are tax-deductible, in accordance with federal and Massachusetts state law. Receipts are issued for all gifts.