A Message From Jerrilyn Malana, President, California Lawyers Foundation
The California Lawyers Foundation is the charitable arm of CLA, and we serve as a sister organization with shared goals of advancing access to justice, civic engagement, and diversity, equity, and inclusion. As President, I am continually inspired by the impact our programs have in shaping the future of the legal profession. This success would not be possible without the commitment and hard work of our Board and Staff, whose vision and dedication truly light the way to a brighter tomorrow. We invite CLA members to join us in supporting our work—as your involvement can help us make an even greater difference in our communities.
In 2025, the generosity of our donors enabled the Foundation to award over $50,000 in scholarships to high school, undergraduate, and law students throughout California who are passionate about civic engagement. These scholarships empower promising students, who are the future of our profession.
One cornerstone of our work is our legal “pipeline” program. Through the California Legal Pathways Collaborative (CLPC), we partner with public high schools to offer Law Academies, which are comprehensive three-year programs for students in grades 10 to 12. The Academies deliver hands-on learning, mentorship, and exposure to civics, government, and legal careers. With 25 Law Academies reaching more than 3,100 students each year—many of whom are first-generation college hopefuls—we help “at-promise” youth discover legal pathways and build a more diverse, inclusive legal community.
On February 26, 2026, the Foundation and CLPC welcomed approximately 300 high school students to Sacramento for “Legislative Day.” Our Law Academy students visited the State Capitol, witnessed the legislative process, and participated in programs centered on civics, ethics, and the rule of law. The event’s theme, “Civility and Ethics in the Legislative Process,” featured distinguished speakers, including former Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye, offering invaluable perspectives to our future leaders.
The Foundation is proud to support the Judicial Council of California and Chief Justice Patricia Guerrero’s “Power of Democracy Civic Learning Initiative,” dedicated to enhancing civic education in grades K-12. This includes the Judges in the Classroom program and annual Civic Learning Awards, which honor teachers and schools advancing civics education and preparing engaged citizens for tomorrow.
As Law Day approaches on May 1, we look forward to partnering with CLA’s New Lawyer Section and Civic Engagement & Outreach Committee (CEO) to bring attorneys into classrooms. Through our “When You Turn 18: A Legal Survival Guide” publication, we help young adults understand their rights and responsibilities.
Mark your calendars for October 21 and join us in San Diego for our second annual “Fairways to Justice” Golf Tournament. Attorneys, judges, and law students will unite on the golf course for this fundraiser to support the Foundation’s programs. The event coincides with CLA’s Annual Meeting for convenience. For details: https://calawyersfoundation.org/events/save-the-date-clf-classic-golf-tournament/
During the CLA Annual Meeting, the Foundation will host the popular Civic Engagement Luncheon for elementary students. This interactive program introduces fifth graders to the legal profession, the three branches of government, and the importance of the Rule of Law through interactive activities with judges and attorneys.
As we look ahead to these inspiring events, we invite you to help shape the future by investing in tomorrow’s leaders. Whether you volunteer, mentor, or contribute financially, your support is essential. Together, we can ensure California’s legal profession serves its diverse communities with integrity and excellence. Join us! California Lawyers Foundation: https://calawyersfoundation.org/