Volunteers of Legal Service (VOLS) was founded as a nonprofit organization in 1984, when New York City Bar leaders responded to severe federal government budget cuts to legal services.
They committed through VOLS to dramatically increase pro bono service in New York City’s underserved communities. Across 35 years and through crises such as the HIV/AIDS epidemic or the financial crisis of 2008, our programs have helped to anchor the safety net in our city.
Today, VOLS harnesses the power of New York City’s legal community and neighborhood-based groups to provide free, civil legal services when and where they are needed most. We empower New Yorkers to attain dignity, security, and opportunity through eight VOLS law projects and initiatives.