Alyson Traw is a University of South Carolina graduate who practices in financial services litigation at Winston & Strawn, LLP. She serves clients using her litigation and transactional real estate experience and says of her workplace, “I am very lucky to work with a fantastic team where everyone is supported and encouraged.”
Alyson is a pro bono champion who regularly volunteers with the NC Pro Bono Resource Center for its Driver’s License Restoration and Housing Stability Projects, as well as the North Carolina Bar Foundation’s Wills for Heroes. She says of the Housing Stability Project, one of her favorite pro bono experiences, “Our work led to immediate and tangible results. It was very meaningful to help both landlords and tenants in a non-adversarial situation – a welcome reprieve from the inherently adversarial work of being a litigator.” Alyson also loves volunteering for the Wills for Heroes clinics. “This virtual volunteer opportunity allows attorneys across the state to support this important work. It is deeply meaningful to have an opportunity to give back to first responders serving our communities who put their lives on the line every day.” In addition to being proud of the statewide work she did with the Housing Stability Project, she is also proud to have attended the swearing-in ceremony for a naturalization client after working with her for months to prepare.
Alyson believes that pro bono work has enriched her career because it allows her to step outside of her comfort zone and practice area to learn new skills and areas of law. She also adds, “In addition, it has enriched me personally, because I have the opportunity to interact with and assist individuals from all walks of life, cultures, and backgrounds. As a former domestic violence prosecutor and housing authority attorney, I welcome the opportunity to serve and hopefully make a difference in someone’s life and in my community.”
Alyson touts the Pro Bono Resource Center for providing excellent training so that volunteers are equipped with the tools they need. She says, “If we have been blessed with talent, knowledge, and resources, it is incumbent upon us to give back and use our gifts to benefit others. Pro bono work leads to boundless opportunities for professional and personal growth. We have the ability to directly impact, in a meaningful and positive way, the communities in which we live while simultaneously honing our craft and expanding our personal and professional horizons.”