Aug. 2, 2013 – Want to be a part of a life-changing experience for students from throughout the nation with just the click of a button? Now you can. The State Bar of Wisconsin and its charitable arm, the Wisconsin Law Foundation, are ramping up fundraising efforts for National Mock Trial 2014 (to be held in Madison) by launching an online giving campaign at nationalmocktrial2014.wisbar.org.
“National Mock Trial is the kind of event that has a lasting impact on students, and it provides the best opportunity to educate generations to come about the legal system,” said National Mock Trial Executive Committee Chair Kevin Lonergan. “As attorneys and ambassadors to the legal system, we should work together to fully fund this important competition.”
The State Bar’s National Mock Trial Fundraising Committee has set a goal of $200,000 to cover the cost of materials for students and judges, security and rental costs for venues, team awards, student-based activities and the final banquet and dance – a long-standing tradition at the National Mock Trial Championship.
Lonergan pointed out that Wisconsin will essentially be “on display,” so it’s important to deliver the best program possible. Last year, 48 teams, including Guam and South Korea, participated in the event.
“Holding the national tournament in Wisconsin gives our students an opportunity to see the highest level of competition right in their own backyard,” Lonergan said.
Approximately 1,000 students, judges and volunteers are expected to participate in the 2014 championship.
“Mock Trial is the State Bar’s premier public outreach program, and oftentimes, it’s the only opportunity students have to connect with and learn about the legal system. That’s why it is so important for members of the Bar and the public to support this event,” Lonergan said.
Katie Stenz is the public affairs coordinator with the State Bar of Wisconsin. She can be reached at kstenz@wisbar.org, or by phone at (608) 250-6145.
Lonergan’s committee is not only seeking donations, but volunteers. Judges and attorneys are needed to staff the rounds, guide visitors from place to place and help coordinate events.
“This is a chance for the Bar and members of the legal profession to show the nation how much pride Wisconsin attorneys have in public education and their local communities,” Lonergan said. “Mock Trial is a life-changing program that has a substantial impact not only on the lives of students, but volunteers – the coaches, judges and parents. It’s worth taking a few minutes out of your day to invest in tomorrow’s leaders.”
To learn more about National Mock Trial 2014 or to volunteer, contact State Bar of Wisconsin Public Education Program Manager Marsha Varvil-Weld at 608-250-6191 or PubEdCoordinator@wisbar.org.
Those interested in donating can visit nationalmocktrial2014.wisbar.org and select the Donate Now button. All donations are tax deductible. Checks can also be made out to the Wisconsin Law Foundation and mailed to PO Box 7158 Madison, WI, 53707-7158. The group also welcomes multiyear donations, which must be made by Feb. 1, 2014.
