23
August
2019
|
10:07 AM
America/Chicago

Young lawyers recognize Nathan "Nate" Dunville for community service

Nathan Dunville believes serving others is the key to happiness. This belief has led to his notable efforts and recognition by The Missouri Bar Young Lawyers' Section for his commitment to helping those in his community through multiple legal projects.

"In my opinion, one of the best parts of being a lawyer is having the opportunity and ability to help others in ways that are unique to our profession,” said Dunville, a lawyer at Neale and Newman, LLP in Springfield.“

Dunville helped develop and currently hosts the Springfield Metropolitan Bar Association’s (SMBA) “Show Me Prosperity Legal Literacy Workshops” that are provided to the public free of charge. This nationally recognized project provides individuals with free information on legal and financial issues.

He also helped develop and now co-chairs a legal clinic provided through a partnership between the SMBA and Legal Services of Southern Missouri called the “Clean Slate Clinic” which assists qualified individuals in obtaining expungements.

In addition, he was a founding member of the Board of Directors for the Drew Lewis Foundation at the Fairbanks, an organization dedicated to providing resources, education and opportunities to underserved areas of Springfield. He personally arranges for pro bono representation to assist program participants in lifting themselves out of poverty.

In recognition of his work, The Missouri Bar’s Young Lawyers’ Section has selected Dunville as the 2019 recipient of the Tom Cochran Community Service Award. This honor is designed to recognize a member of The Missouri Bar whose service and professionalism have enhanced his or her community. It is named after Thomas D. Cochran (1934-1981). The award rotates between St. Louis, Kansas City and outstate Missouri areas, based on where the bar’s annual meeting is held.

While honored to be selected, Dunville said it important to point out, “I have only played a part in the various projects that I have had the privilege to be involved in, and there are many others who also deserve recognition.”Dunville added he is grateful for the support of his firm and their commitment to investing in their local community.Dunville will be formally awarded during The Missouri Bar Foundation & Public Service Awards Luncheon, Wednesday, Sept. 18, in Branson.

Click here to learn more about YLS and the section’s annual awards.