Children’s Law Center of North Carolina (CLC) Needs Your Support

Dear Colleagues,

As members of the Greensboro Bar Association, we understand the critical role that access to justice plays in the health and strength of our community. Today, I am reaching out as both a colleague and a friend of the Children’s Law Center of Central North Carolina (CLC) to share an urgent need.

For two decades, CLC has advocated for children in high-conflict custody and civil domestic violence cases, children whose voices would otherwise go unheard in court. Their work not only safeguards vulnerable children but also strengthens families and promotes stability in our community.

Like many nonprofit organizations across our state that provide essential services, it is facing increased financial pressure and despite higher demand for CLC’s services, public funding has significantly decreased in 2025.  Most recently, the North Carolina General Assembly reappropriated NC IOLTA funds away from Civil Legal Aid, removing one of the few consistent streams of support available to organizations like CLC.

But the reality is this: without broader financial support from the legal community, these vital services are at risk. That is why I am asking you, as a fellow member of the Bar, to stand with Children’s Law Center. You can do this in two important ways:

Make a Financial Contribution

Your gift will directly support advocacy for children who cannot otherwise afford representation. Every dollar makes an impact in ensuring that CLC continues its mission.

Volunteer Your Time

CLC welcomes attorneys who are willing to contribute pro bono hours. By lending your expertise, you not only provide relief to an overburdened system but also experience firsthand the profound impact this work has on children and families.

The need is urgent. The children CLC serves cannot wait, and neither should we. Together, as a community of legal professionals, we can ensure that justice is not a privilege for the few, but a right for all, especially for those most vulnerable.

I hope you will join me in supporting Children’s Law Center today.

—Marcus A. Shields