ALSC’s December Volunteer of the Month is James Bauman! James volunteers in a variety of ways: for the Early Resolution Project in Anchorage and Palmer, the Housing Court Justice Project, and through direct casework. Check out our interview will James below:

Why did you choose to volunteer with ALSC? 

I choose to Volunteer with ALSC because it provides me with the opportunity to help.  I get to help others with problems that they can’t handle themselves.  I get to help others that might not be able to find help elsewhere.  I get to help people that feel that no one cares about them.  Finally, it helps me to make the changes I want to see in society.

What are some of your experiences at ALSC that have made a positive difference in the lives of others and/or the community?  

Every time I get the email from Laura requesting help with the Early Resolution Project I am reminded of the first time that I was able to volunteer with that program.  I was acting as a mediator between two parents trying to do whats best for their daughter.  In working with them we were able to come up with a solution that the parents were happy with.  Not just a solution that the parents agreed to, but a solution that made them happy.

How do you think your experiences with ALSC will benefit you in the future? 

ALSC has provided me with connections in the legal community that I NEVER would have been able to make without the volunteer opportunities.  Not only have I been able to work with well deserving people to help with their legal problems,  but I have made connections with other attorneys that have allowed me to continue my legal practice when I thought I had to close my firm.