BNP Paribas’ Pro Bono Program Making a Positive Impact in New York City

Learn how BNP Paribas’ US Legal team is making a positive impact in their local communities by using their business skills to assist individuals in need in New York City.

BNP Paribas CIB US LEGAL established its Pro Bono Program in 2013 to provide members of the local LEGAL team with opportunities to assist individuals in need. In addition to providing legal services to those who could not otherwise afford them, the Pro Bono Program strengthens BNP Paribas’ relationship with the community, improves the skills of individuals on the LEGAL team and encourages teamwork. Members of CIB US LEGAL have received awards from both the New York State and New York City Bar Associations in appreciation of the breadth of the team’s pro bono commitment.

CIB US LEGAL’s pro bono efforts include providing support to members of local immigrant communities. In collaboration with the New York City Bar Justice Center’s Immigration Justice Project, volunteers assist clients in the preparation of documentation to support their applications for their U nonimmigrant status (“U Visa”). A U Visa is a nonimmigrant visa granted to victims of specified crimes like human trafficking and domestic violence (and their immediate family members) who have suffered substantial mental or physical abuse and are willing to assist law enforcement and government officials in the investigation or prosecution of the criminal activity. The U Visa program matches attorneys with undocumented immigrants who have been victims of crimes in the United States, and who are taking a very courageous step to assist law enforcement in seeking justice.

The U Visa program, together with CIB US LEGAL’s other pro bono work, offers fantastic opportunities for attorneys to contribute to truly worthy endeavors. When asked about the Pro Bono Program, Peter Cooke, Americas General Counsel for BNP Paribas, quoted Benjamin Franklin: “When you are good to others, you are best to yourself”.

He continued, “As lawyers, we are fortunate to have learned a very particular set of skills. These skills can help others and make their lives better. We have created a dynamic program which makes a difference – to others, and to ourselves.”

For more on BNP Paribas’ approach to philanthropy, click here