NAPABA Law Foundation

Overview

The NAPABA Law Foundation (EIN: 36-4014003) is a nonprofit organization established in 1994 dedicated to supporting the educational and charitable initiatives of the Asian Pacific American legal community. The Foundation aims to promote the development, advancement, leadership, and public service of Asian Pacific Americans in the legal profession. It operates as an affiliate of the National Asian Pacific American Bar Association (NAPABA) and is recognized as a tax-exempt organization under IRC Section 501(c)(3).

Mission and Activities

The mission of the NAPABA Law Foundation is to educate and serve Asian Pacific Americans and their communities. It accomplishes this mission through various programs, including scholarships, fellowships, and community partnerships. Since its inception, the Foundation has awarded nearly $2 million in scholarships, fellowships, and internships to law students and recent law graduates committed to serving the Asian Pacific American community.

Scholarships and Fellowships

The Foundation offers a range of financial support, including:

• Scholarships for Law Students: Nationwide scholarships for law students who demonstrate a commitment to contribute to the Asian Pacific American community. These scholarships are made possible through donations from corporations, law firms, bar associations, and individuals.

• Community Law Fellowships: A two-year program designed to provide new attorneys with substantive experience at nonprofit or community-based organizations focused on serving Asian Pacific American populations.

• Internships: Year-round internships at NAPABA, including opportunities facilitated through partnerships with various organizations.

The Foundation also provides travel scholarships for judges to attend training sessions at the National Judicial College, further emphasizing its commitment to professional development within the legal community.

Key Programs

Notable initiatives of the NAPABA Law Foundation include:

• Thomas Tang National Moot Court Competition: An annual appellate advocacy competition named after the late Honorable Thomas Tang, a respected judge on the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit.

• The Portrait Project: A comprehensive study documenting the progress and challenges faced by Asian Americans in the legal profession, highlighting their distribution across various practice settings.

Leadership

The Board of the NAPABA Law Foundation includes both the NAPABA president and president-elect, along with other members in leadership roles. The Board comprises a total of 18 members, which include the president, vice president, secretary, treasurer, and assistant treasurer. Various individuals have significantly contributed to the Foundation's leadership over the years, fostering its growth and impact within the legal community.

Through its targeted initiatives and programs, the NAPABA Law Foundation continues to play a vital role in addressing the needs and advancing the interests of Asian Pacific Americans in the legal profession.