Earlier this year, our chapter introduced a community service initiative aimed at showcasing the collective contributions we are making nationwide. Each quarter, we’ve rallied around a shared theme in efforts to strengthen our connection to each other while supporting the causes that matter most to us and make an impact in our local communities.

Following a meaningful summer of youth engagement, we turned our attention in the fourth quarter to an issue affecting every community across the United States, hunger and food insecurity.

Hunger knows no boundaries. According to Feeding America, 47 million people face food insecurity across 100% of counties in the U.S. This stark reality guided our chapter’s focus during the final quarter of 2025, and our members rose to the challenge with compassion and determination.

Throughout the quarter, members contributed in a variety of ways, including participating in food drives, supporting local pantries, volunteering at kitchens and shelters, and delivering meals. Each act of service played a role in supporting individuals and families facing difficult circumstances during the holiday season.

Collectively, our members helped provide food support to dozens of families and contributed meaningful time to organizations strained during the holidays.

Kayleigh Evans of Mac Murray & Shuster LLP coordinated a food drive in partnership with our local community center to support the New Albany Food Pantry. During the federal government shutdown, resources that local shelters previously depended on were significantly reduced. Families may have been experiencing a loss or delay in SNAP benefits and federal employees impacted by missed paychecks.

The Portland Sunshine Division distributes approximately 4,000 food boxes and turkey meal kits annually to support families and individuals experiencing hardship. Established in 1922, this initiative has remained a central component of the organization’s programs each year. Among the dedicated volunteers, Lisa Cadungug of McEwen and Gisvold LLP, assisted with the delivery of these essential food boxes to recipients in need.

Beyond the statistics, this initiative underscored the value of connection. Members shared stories, photos, and updates. We are spotlighting the meaningful work happening in communities across many states. Many engaged family members, coworkers, and friends, turning their volunteer activities into opportunities for teamwork, learning, and shared purpose. Our chapter may span the country, but we continue to find common ground in the needs within our communities and in our commitment to showing up where it matters.

As we step into a new year, our focus for the first quarter of 2026 turns to another deeply meaningful area: animal care. Local shelters, rescue organizations, and wildlife centers rely heavily on volunteer support. Overcrowding, limited resources, and increased community demand have placed immense pressure on these organizations, making this an ideal place for our chapter to direct its efforts.

Here are a few ways members can participate in Q1:

• Volunteering at shelters or animal rescues
• Donating food, treats, bedding, or supplies
• Assisting with adoption events
• Fostering animals awaiting permanent homes
• Supporting wildlife rehabilitators
• Educating others on responsible pet care

Whether you have an hour, a weekend, or room in your home for a foster pet, there is a way for everyone to take part. We encourage you to share your hours, photos, or stories throughout the quarter. Every effort makes a difference and inspires others to get involved.

As the new year begins, we express our gratitude to all members who dedicated their time, effort, and commitment during the previous quarter. Collectively, we are establishing a significant and measurable legacy of service that reaches across states, organizations, and communities.

Let’s carry that momentum into 2026 and make Q1 another impactful chapter in our journey.

Authored by Kayleigh Evans
COO, Mac Murray & Shuster LLP