People of Pro Bono: Yael Ellsworth, Life Teaches Foundation

Yael established Life Teaches Foundation to inspire, empower and support every individual to help triage and resolve the issues that perpetuate homelessness. With the help of Taproot skilled volunteers on projects including website design and brand development, she’s sharing her organization’s vision and expanding their impact.

Eye-opening impact

My pro bono experience? Enlightening. Growing up, my father didn’t believe in volunteering so I was raised with the understanding that time is worth money and shouldn’t be given away. Now, however, I understand that the rewards that come with making an impact are worth so much more than all the money I made during my corporate career.

Look before you leap

For a long time, I was getting offers from volunteers, but my requests were too general and I didn’t know how to utilize them properly. Now, with Taproot’s guidance, I’ve learned how to prepare an “ask” so it best serves my organization and our volunteers. I could be so much further ahead if I’d known this from the start!

To those thinking about using pro bono for the first time, here’s what I’ve learned: know what you need. Write out job descriptions. Treat it like a business and ask for the exact help you need. Most of all, do the thinking and planning before you jump right in with both feet!

The gift of generosity

To all those who have helped my organization pro bono, thank you – not only for telling me you believe in my mission, but for actually showing that belief through your actions and generous service. When I see your eagerness to make an impact, I know our hard work is all worth it.

Discover the impact service can have on your own life by joining the pro bono movement. Click here to take the first step.