In Part 2 of our “Philanthropy and the People of Practus” series, we continue to highlight the inspiring efforts of our attorneys and staff, whose dedication to community service spans a wide array of causes. These individuals embody the value of giving back, not only through legal services but by actively contributing their time, energy, and passion to organizations that make a real difference in people’s lives.
From supporting the arts and education to advocating for animal welfare and equality, the attorneys featured here demonstrate how celebrating achievements and community involvement both from a professional and personal perspective is at the core of our Practus culture.
Janet Hallahan
Literacy and Arts
Janet Hallahan has spent her career supporting literacy and the arts, driven by a belief in giving back to the communities and causes that have helped her throughout her life. Her contributions span a wide range, from offering pro bono legal assistance to female entrepreneurs, artists, and nonprofit organizations, to volunteering with libraries that provide community access to education and art.
She’s an advocate for historic and modern learning spaces, expanding access to knowledge and culture while providing a deep commitment to fostering creativity, education, and opportunity for others. Although she works with a myriad of organizations, we’re highlighting her work with public libraries: Haddonfield Public Library and the Library Company of Philadelphia.
“I have been a board member of the Haddonfield Public Library for many years, and currently serve as the Vice President of the Board, Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee, and Chair of the Policies and Procedures Committee. We have recently upgraded and renovated our 221-year-old library by not only bringing it into the current century, but also restoring its plasterwork and mosaic floors. Now, we’re in the process of building an outside classroom to expand the community’s access to our programs and facilities.”
-Janet Hallahan
Karen Aspinall
Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue Cente
Karen Aspinall channels her love for animals into meaningful volunteer work with Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue Center, an organization dedicated to community, adoption of animals, and keeping pets with their owners.
“Doing something meaningful outside of work is very important to me. I have always loved animals, and when the opportunity arose to work with Nate’s Honor Animal Rescue Center, I jumped at the chance. What I love most about this organization is that it is very community-centric.
The leadership is thoughtful about offering programs to keep animals with their owners by providing pet food resources, training for adopted animals, and low-cost vaccinations once the expanded Center is completed in the new year. The organization’s mission goes beyond simply adopting out as many pets as possible—which, of course, is a goal—to keeping pets in homes with their families despite common challenges people face when resources are constrained. It’s a wonderful service to both the community and the pets the Center serves.”
-Karen Aspinall
Sandra Haislet
Boy Scouts of America
Sandra Haislet has been working with Boy Scouts of America for years and is inspired by the impact the BSA has on family members, the community, and the Scouts themselves while providing a path to a lifetime of adventure.
“In the age of “digital,” nothing beats being out in nature and exploring all the world has to offer. I’ve been involved with Scouting in many roles over the years through my Unit District and Council committees, as well as National Jamboree staff, since my son was six years old. I’ve enjoyed watching him and his friends grow into amazing young men, developing basic survival, communication, and leadership skills. I have a special love for STEM activities and exposing youth to various trades, hobbies, and career opportunities. Giving all children a chance to be kids outdoors while learning skills that will last a lifetime, in the name of FUN, is one of the greatest joys of my life.”
-Sandra Haislet
Linda Priebe
Women Lawyers on Guard Inc. (WLG) and Women Lawyers on Guard Action Network Inc. (WLGAN)
Linda Priebe’s work with WLG/WLGAN is inspired by her passion for improving the legal profession and democratic system with the hopes of codifying equality within the U.S. Constitution. WLG/WLGAN is a national network of lawyers and professionals dedicated to defending democratic values, with a focus on equality, justice, and opportunity for all.
“I’m so impressed with WLG/WLGAN’s groundbreaking work to preserve, protect, and defend democratic values. Their bravery in addressing issues like sexual harassment and workplace equity makes the legal profession a better place for everyone. To support their work, I customized their website’s privacy policy and developed accompanying internal policies for personal data protection. It’s my privilege to contribute to their impactful mission.”
-Linda Priebe
Some of the main initiatives for WLG/WLGAN include:
Amicus Briefs: Filing strategic court briefs on workplace equity, gender rights, and reproductive health issues.
Groundbreaking Research: Publishing reports like Still Broken, which highlights systemic issues of sexual harassment in the legal profession and fostering initiatives like Conversations with Men to encourage male allies.
Advocacy for the ERA: WLGAN plays a critical role in the fight to formally recognize the Equal Rights Amendment (ERA) as the 28th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. They issued a joint letter with the National Association of Women Lawyers urging President Biden to direct the U.S. Archivist to certify and publish the ERA, which has already been ratified by Congress and the requisite number of states. Their efforts include public awareness campaigns and tools for contacting the White House to drive action.
Taylor Palmer
Pathways Home Animal Rescue
Taylor Palmer has been an active supporter of Pathways Home Animal Rescue since 2020, starting with her first foster experience—a senior dog named Violet who later found her perfect forever home. Inspired by that experience, Taylor became more involved, transporting dogs to vet appointments, delivering food, and fostering additional pets, including a bonded pair of Chihuahua mixes, Ziggy and Ditto, who quickly became permanent members of her family.
“What I love most about Pathways is their commitment to rescuing dogs from kill shelters, especially those needing extra care, and ensuring bonded pairs stay together. Ziggy and Ditto came into our home as a bonded pair and have been the perfect additions to our family. They’ve even traveled with us to Mexico, Costa Rica, the U.S., and Portugal all within a year. It’s been so special to share these adventures with them while continuing to support Pathways from abroad.”
–Taylor Palmer
Even after relocating abroad, Taylor and her husband found a creative way to give back by designing “It’s Cool to Rescue” music-inspired merch, donating 100% of proceeds to help Pathways cover vet care costs for adoption-ready dogs. Their dedication continues to make a lasting impact on the organization and the animals it serves.
The impactful work of Janet, Karen, Sandra, Linda, and Taylor is a testament to the power of philanthropy to create lasting change in their communities. These contributions reflect the values we hold at Practus, where our attorneys and staff not only excel in their professional roles, but also have the opportunity to achieve success in their personal lives. As we look to the future, we remain inspired by the dedication and generosity of our team and are proud to share their stories as part of our ongoing commitment to community engagement and doing the things that bring you joy.
Practus, LLP provides this information as a service to clients and others for educational purposes only. It should not be construed or relied on as legal advice or to create an attorney-client relationship. Readers should not act upon this information without seeking advice from professional advisers.
