Much is proud to announce that Steve Blonder, principal and member of the firm’s Management Committee, has been selected to receive the 2023 Edward J. Lewis II Pro Bono Service Award from the Chicago Bar Foundation. The annual award recognizes one Chicago-based attorney who demonstrates a deep commitment to the fundamental principles of equal protection and equal justice in the community through outstanding pro bono service.
Steve received this honor during the Chicago Bar Foundation's 2023 Pro Bono & Public Service Awards luncheon. View photos of the event here.
As expressed by one of Steve’s colleagues: “When the scales of justice tip in favor of the privileged, Steve stands tall as an advocate for the voiceless.” Through impact litigation, Steve is focused on changing the law to improve the lives of those in marginalized corners of the community. This includes trailblazing pro bono work in the area of disability rights where Steve has worked to ensure that deaf individuals and those with mobility issues can donate plasma, enjoy an Uber ride, and participate in scouting. Steve also filed amicus briefs in the Supreme Court of Louisiana arguing defendants convicted by Jim Crow juries have been denied their constitutional rights and in the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit regarding immigration issues. Steadfast in his service to the Jewish community, Steve recently completed a term as president of the Board of Directors of The ARK, an organization that provides vital services and resources to Chicago-area individuals of the Jewish faith, now serving as that organization’s board chair. Since 2010, he has also served as vice chair of the Chicago Bar Foundation’s Investing in Justice Campaign to help impact law reform. Behind the scenes, Steve regularly provides counsel to a number of community organizations.
“Steve has always been known for his efforts to make the Much name synonymous with pro bono advocacy,” said Much Managing Partner Courtney Mayster. “He reinforces our core value of community service by putting the needs of those without equal access to justice first.”
The Chicago Bar Foundation’s selection committee chooses recipients based upon their work on significant pro bono cases that helped residents of the Chicago area and beyond who are impacted by poverty, abuse, and discrimination; the length and breadth of pro bono commitment; success in inspiring others to do pro bono work; and other significant accomplishments that have improved access to justice.