I joined the CWBA for three reasons: networking, mentoring, and getting involved in something bigger than myself, and I found each of these things as a member.
The CWBA offers opportunities each year to network. I have even been the beneficiary of several referrals over the years. What I didn’t know when I joined is that I would find so many friends at the CWBA! Each year, the CWBA hosts a Membership Mixer, which is scheduled for later this summer. I invite you to attend. Who knows who you will meet?
Although the CWBA no longer has a formal mentoring match program, it provides numerous opportunities for young lawyers to meet with more seasoned lawyers. I was fortunate to find several fabulous women through the CWBA that were willing to mentor me. These women had a profound effect on my career.
The CWBA impacts our community in several ways. The Legal Services Committee offers pro bono clinics and holds events to benefit organizations like Center for Work Education and Employment, Family Star and the Gathering Place. But the biggest impact the CWBA has is through our lobbyist and the Public Policy Committee, which provide a unique experience and are a great influence to our work. Please consider joining one of the CWBA committees.
Several years ago, Judge Claudia Jordan and I served on a board together. I told her I was interested in getting involved with the CWBA and the next thing I knew I was co-chair of the Professional Advancement Committee. It was a wonderful introduction to the board. I am now honored to be the CWBA’s President.
I’m inspired by so many of you. You work tirelessly to better the lives of women and children in our communities by volunteering as CASAs, with Rocky Mountain Children’s Law Center, the Colorado Lawyer’s Committee, and as pro bono attorneys in domestic and juvenile cases; you serve on countless boards; and you still find ways to be successful attorneys and mothers.
I am grateful to the new CWBA board, which has already met to plan our year. I can promise you that there will be something for everyone. We hope to see you at a CWBA event in the near future.
Kara Veitch