October marks Pro Bono Celebration Month, and we're thrilled for the opportunity to recognize the outstanding pro bono attorneys, paralegals, students, and community members who donate their time, talent, and expertise to make a difference in the lives of low-income Ohioans. So much of our work depends on the generosity and hard work of our fantastic pro bono attorneys, and we can't thank you enough for your dedication to our clients!

“LASCO connects our skills with the community’s most pressing needs. It’s about turning legal expertise into real-world impact."

—Bill Nolan, Volunteer and Barnes & Thornburg Partner

Barnes & Thornburg’s Columbus office is a shining example of how legal professionals can use their skills to uplift communities. With team members rooted in the Midwest and shaped by global experiences, the firm brings a unique blend of compassion, curiosity, and commitment to its work and volunteer efforts. Legal Aid of Southeast and Central Ohio is proud to present Barnes & Thornburg LLP with the Exceptional Service by a Law Firm or Corporation Award. 

In their free time, the Barnes & Thornburg team enjoys everything from roasting coffee and walking dogs to reading in book clubs and crocheting. But it’s their shared dedication to service that truly defines them. Early experiences in volunteering and exposure to legal systems laid the foundation for their careers. Internships, college service projects, and transformative moments beyond their hometowns inspired the team to pursue law and use it as a tool for equity. “Volunteering shows us how systems vary—and how we can help bridge those gaps,” said Barnes & Thornburg associate Samantha DeRoos. 

Barnes & Thornburg’s partnership with LASCO has been a cornerstone of that mission. As a firm, they have stepped up for years to handle various requests from Legal Aid’s rural service area, where local attorney numbers are declining and more recently have taken on family law needs for low-income families. Additionally, their collective commitment to the LASCO expungement clinics has been a true example of how firms can build community through service. Through the firm’s decision to attend LASCO expungement clinics as their annual “Day of Service,” Barnes & Thornburg helps clients remove barriers to employment and housing—offering hope and opportunity. “LASCO connects our skills with the community’s most pressing needs. It’s about turning legal expertise into real-world impact,” said partner Bill Nolan. 

The clinics have been especially moving. “We’ve seen clients celebrate new beginnings. It’s powerful to witness their joy and relief,” added Jeff Bartolozzi, of counsel.  Baylee Butler, LASCO’s managing attorney of pro bono and community outreach, emphasized the firm’s impact: “LASCO is so grateful to have Barnes & Thornburg as a pro bono partner. The firm never hesitates to take on even the most complex cases and consistently shows up in force at our expungement clinics. Their dedication and generosity make a real difference in the lives of our clients, and we are looking forward to celebrating them and their commitment to our community.” 

Volunteering through LASCO has not only strengthened the firm’s connections with the central Ohio community but also deepened the team’s understanding of the legal system—its strengths, its gaps, and its human impact. The Barnes & Thornburg team appreciates that these events often bring together judges, legal professionals, and attorneys on weekends, united by a shared goal: expanding access to justice. These experiences deliver immediate, tangible results and reinforce the broader mission behind their legal careers. As partner Bill Nolan reflects, “Justice isn’t just about wins or losses—it’s about equity, access, and compassion.” Their advice to others? “Start small. Connect with passionate peers. Every effort counts.” 

LASCO proudly honors Barnes & Thornburg with the Exceptional Service by a Law Firm or Corporation Award. Thank you for helping build a more just and equitable community. 

“It has helped me appreciate how fortunate I am, and that I can share that with others to hopefully improve their lives, if only in some small way."

—Rod Reuscher

Rod Reuscher has spent 30 years building a career in financial services at JPMorganChase, but one of his most meaningful investments is the time he has devoted to serving others as a long-time volunteer at Legal Aid of Southeast and Central Ohio’s brief advice clinics. 

Rod credits his parents with instilling the values that guide his volunteer efforts. “My interest in volunteering and the desire to help others comes from my mother, who was a very caring and compassionate person raising five children,” said the Cincinnati native. “It wasn’t until I became an adult that I truly started to appreciate the sacrifices they made for us.” 

For the past seven years, Rod has volunteered with LASCO, primarily supporting the intake process at brief advice clinics. His work has given him insight into a wide range of client issues. One memorable experience involved a client who believed they were being monitored and recorded. “It stands out because it showed how deeply some individuals are affected by their circumstances and how important it is to listen and respond with empathy.” Rod believes LASCO’s work is essential. “LASCO plays a critical role in the communities it serves, providing access to legal services for persons who otherwise may not have the resources to obtain reliable legal assistance.” He sees civil legal aid as a lifeline that can help individuals avoid adverse outcomes and improve their lives. 

Mary Gadd, LASCO’s senior attorney pro bono coordinator, expressed her admiration for Rod’s contributions, “Rod has been a true leader within JPMorganChase, not only championing our pro bono efforts but also actively volunteering at a wide range of our legal clinics,” said Gadd. “His empathy and patience make a lasting impact and embody the spirit of service we strive for.” For Rod, Volunteering has also changed his perspective. “It has truly raised my awareness of the struggles many endure and the many socio-economic inequities that exist,” he said. “It has helped me appreciate how fortunate I am, and that I can share that with others to hopefully improve their lives, if only in some small way.” Outside of work, he enjoys spending time with family and friends or relaxing at home with a good TV series. 

To those considering pro bono work, Rod offers simple but powerful advice: “Just do it. No matter how much, how little, or the type of knowledge and experience you have to share, it can make a difference. I think you will find the personal rewards from helping others is well worth the time and effort.” 

LASCO proudly honors Rod Reuscher with the Pro Bono Impact Award. His compassion, consistency, and commitment to helping others have made a real difference in the lives of countless clients. Thank you, Rod, for your outstanding service and for being a vital part of our mission to expand access to justice. 

Chad Dworkin and Gretchen Lipari know the power of teamwork and giving back. Together, the Nationwide trial attorneys take on pro bono cases that change lives—one family at a time. That spirit of collaboration earned them LASCO’s Outstanding Collaboration Award. 

Chad’s path to pro bono work began in childhood. Raised in Columbus, he watched his parents volunteer tirelessly—his father as an EMT and both parents with the Red Cross. “Giving back to the community just became such a normal part of life in our house that it never crossed my mind that I wouldn’t do the same,” he said. Today, Chad balances a busy family life with volunteering. He and his wife are raising three daughters, and his free time is filled with their sports schedules, coaching travel softball, skiing, and even serving as a volunteer ski patroller. Still, pro bono service remains a priority, which he calls “good for the heart and soul.” 

Gretchen’s story also reflects a lifelong commitment to service. Originally from the D.C. area, she came to the Buckeye State to attend The Ohio State University and decided to stay. She has spent more than 30 years in insurance defense, the past decade with Nationwide, which she describes as both challenging and meaningful. Volunteering, she explained, is rewarding on many levels. “For me, volunteering is a mental health practice,” she said. “The positivity I feel from helping on issues that matter to me provides far more than I ever feel I’m giving.” Over the years she has volunteered with a suicide prevention hotline, CHOICES for victims of domestic violence, Meals on Wheels, and Court Appointed Special Advocates. 

Both attorneys emphasize how critical LASCO’s work is. Many families would face daunting situations without help from LASCO, they said. “The civil legal aid provided to clients is nothing short of life-changing,” Chad said. Gretchen added that many of the families they serve are assuming lifelong guardianship of disabled young adults out of love and devotion. “Every case is memorable–what they overcome EACH day, and yet, how their hearts are generous with love and care, even with very challenging economic situations. That window to their daily resilience resonates with me on each and every case.” 

Dianna Parker, LASCO director of pro bono & community engagement, applauds Chad and Gretchen's collaboration: "Gretchen and Chad are such a great team! Filling out correct forms can be a true barrier to low-income people trying to navigate guardianship, and Gretchen and Chad’s active participation in this project has helped so many families trying to bring stability for a loved one who needs some extra support." 

The Outstanding Collaboration Award recognizes how Chad and Gretchen strengthen one another’s work. Chad noted, “We approach challenges from different angles, which often leads to more creative and effective problem-solving.” Gretchen added, “I absolutely love working with Chad on these cases. Having a partner-in-crime reduces the worry that we are missing a step, and I think the families enjoy meeting a team.” 

Both attorneys credit Nationwide for making their service possible. The company’s partnership with LASCO and Nationwide Children’s Hospital’s Lawyers for Kids provides resources, encouragement, and structure. “This collaboration is a powerful reflection of Nationwide’s commitment to empathy, advocacy, and community care,” Chad said. Gretchen agreed, noting she could not participate at the same level without employer support. 

When asked what advice they’d give to other attorneys considering pro bono work, both were quick to encourage getting involved. “Every case matters,” Chad said simply. Gretchen added that the work is accessible and deeply rewarding, with cases that have clear goals and outcomes. “You meet the very best people,” she said. 

Congratulations, Chad and Gretchen! 

"This collaboration is a powerful reflection of Nationwide’s commitment to empathy, advocacy, and community care."

—Chad Dworkin

"Every case is memorable–what they overcome EACH day, and yet, how their hearts are generous with love and care, even with very challenging economic situations."

—Gretchen Lipari

“This work is like a calling. It’s rewarding, yet frustrating because of the realization that there are so many who need legal assistance, whom we may never reach.” 

—Frederick D. Benton, Jr.

For Fred Benton, giving back isn’t just something he does—it’s a part of who he is. Living by the belief that “to whom much is given, much is required,” his consistent dedication to service has made a profound impact on the community, and LASCO is proud to honor him with the 2025 Pro Bono Powerhouse Award. Benton, president and CEO of Frederick D. Jr., L.P.A., has volunteered for over decade at free legal clinics in Columbus and encourages others to do the same. 

Benton began volunteering at clinics hosted by Mt. Olivet Baptist Church through the Urban Resurrection Community Development Corporation, which later partnered with LASCO. “This work is like a calling,” he explains. “It’s rewarding, yet frustrating because of the realization that there are so many who need legal assistance, whom we may never reach.” 

Benton graduated from St. Joseph’s University with a degree in English Literature. He earned his law degree from Capital University Law School in 1980. He established his own law office in Columbus’ historic King-Lincoln District, where he practices primarily criminal law. That focus has shaped his pro bono work and reaffirmed his belief that everyone should have access to due process—in criminal cases and beyond. “The Constitution guarantees a basic right to an attorney for a criminal defendant,” he says. “But there is no comparable right for an individual facing eviction, a custody dispute, or who is being sued to collect a debt. The need goes beyond legal counsel—it includes addressing issues of substance abuse, mental health, and affordable housing.” 

Through his volunteer work with LASCO, Benton says his belief in the power of lawyers to create change has only grown stronger. Beyond that belief, he views it as a lawyer's duty to broaden access to justice. It is this sense of duty that drives Benton to invest in the next generation of pro bono attorneys. By mentoring colleagues and encouraging them to give back, he has multiplied the impact of his own service. 

For Benton, his leadership and mentorship are grounded in a simple truth: “We should never forget that while the practice of law affords certain privileges, the greatest is the ability to assist those less fortunate than us.” 

As Dianna Parker, director of pro bono & community engagement at LASCO, says, “Fred is a true leader. He does his work quietly without seeking recognition, and there is no doubt that Fred IS the Mt. Olivet clinic.” 

That leadership has extended far beyond the courtroom, changing the lives of clients and shaping the career paths of his fellow lawyers. By consistently showing up and encouraging others to do the same, Benton ensures that the reach of pro bono service continues to grow. 

Congratulations, Fred! 

"The system of justice that we hope will be there for everyone is not readily available to those with minimal or no economic resources.

As legal professionals and as human beings, it is our duty to embark on the journey to provide equal justice."

—Vivian Opelt

Vivian Opelt's journey to becoming a dedicated pro bono legal advocate is rooted in a lifelong commitment to public service, compassion and justice. Raised in Columbus, Ohio, after her father's retirement from the U. S. Air Force, Vivian grew up in a household where education and service to others were deeply valued. "Public service and community were modeled by my public school teacher parents and by a social worker brother throughout my youth." 

After earning a degree in economics and finance from Ohio State, and working for six years in commercial finance, Vivian followed a long-held dream and enrolled in law school at Ohio State. "The seed to pursue the law was planted in high school when I read To Kill a Mockingbird", she said. Her favorite classes in law school included a civil law practicum and an interdisciplinary seminar in which law students collaborated with peers from other graduate programs to support clients in the community. After law school, Vivian worked for 31 years at Wendy's International, specializing in franchise transactions and litigation. During that time, her volunteer efforts were directed in animal rescue, and she helped to rescue, foster and find homes for around 100 cats and kittens. "That work was a true labor of love," she said. 

After retiring from Wendy's, Vivian began volunteering with LASCO in 2018. She praises LASCO's supportive environment: "They truly guide the volunteers every step of the way, with CLE and with hands-on support at clinics and otherwise." Her work has included estate planning for senior clients, immigration clinics, driver's license reinstatements and record sealing and expungement. "It has been truly awe-inspiring to participate in naturalization clinics in which clients realize that they are one-step closer to becoming U. S. citizens." Another memorable moment came at a record sealing clinic in which she was able to assist a client with sealing a few minor offenses from years earlier, Despite the client's struggles due to her record from years before, this client had taken in 4 siblings under the age of 10, and was raising them as her own and helping to improve their lives.  "I was so inspired by her, and it re-doubled my desire to do as much as I could do for clients in these situations." 

Vivian believes that access to civil legal aid is essential for a fair society. "The system of justice that we hope will be there for everyone is not readily available to those with minimal or no economic resources," she said. " As legal professionals and as human beings, it is our duty to embark on the journey to provide equal justice." Candice Wooten, paralegal on the community engagement and pro bono team, shared: "Vivian's passion and dedication to help others truly shows in her volunteer work. Through our traveling clinics and case referrals she has helped so many of our clients in a variety of areas with such care and understanding. The clients are always so appreciative of her time and so are we." To those considering volunteering, Vivian offers heartfelt encouragement: "Just take a leap of faith and you will find something of interest.....Every one of us makes a difference." 

LASCO proudly recognizes Vivian Opelt as the recipient of the Outstanding Service by an Individual Award. Her compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to justice have made a lasting difference in the lives of countless clients. Thank you, Vivian, for your extraordinary service and for being a true champion of access to justice. 

"Civil legal aid means an opportunity for the client where they may not have had one. It reinforces the need for these services and the support of the legal community."

—Carol Rieger-Taylor

Carol Rieger-Taylor’s path to the legal profession is a testament to perseverance and purpose. Raised in Anchorage, Alaska, she moved to the lower 48 after college, eventually settling in Ohio with her husband. She began her career at Honda in 2003 and steadily advanced through roles in compliance, procurement, and legal. In 2016, Carol pursued her law degree through Capital Law School's evening program, graduating and passing the bar in 2020. Today, she applies her legal training in Honda’s Law & IP Unit and dedicates her time outside of work to her family and volunteering with LASCO’s pro bono clinics. 

Carol’s interest in volunteering with LASCO's pro bono clinics began as a way to stay sharp after law school—but quickly became a passion. “Helping others has always been a core value of mine,” she said. “I also have a strong desire for continuous learning. Volunteering allows me to deepen my knowledge and stay engaged with new experiences.” She has volunteered across a wide range of LASCO clinics, including expungement and wills clinics. Her approach is grounded in empathy and connection. “I strive to connect with clients on a personal level. They genuinely appreciate not only the support but also the opportunity to talk.” 

Carol recalls many meaningful moments, including thoughtful conversations with clients about estate planning, record sealing, and driver's license reinstatement. One especially memorable experience involved helping a gentleman regain his driver’s license after decades without one. “We were both close to tears,” she shared. She sees LASCO’s work as vital. “Civil legal aid means an opportunity for the client where they may not have had one,” she said. “It reinforces the need for these services and the support of the legal community.” 

Mary Gadd, LASCO’s senior attorney pro bono coordinator, praised Carol for her dedication to helping at clinics, especially those focused on expungement. "Her gentle and friendly spirit puts clients at ease, and her sincere commitment to helping others is truly inspiring,” Gadd said. 

Carol also encourages others to get involved. “Providing these services offers immense value both to the client and to me. LASCO is incredibly supportive and helpful for anyone looking to explore new avenues and learn something different.” 

LASCO is proud to present Carol Rieger-Taylor with the In the Trenches Award. Her dedication, warmth, and steady presence have made a profound difference in the lives of those she serves. Thank you, Carol, for your generous contributions and for helping advance our mission to make justice accessible for all.