Campaign Will Assist Individuals Living in Underserved Communities

Memphis, Tenn. – International Paper announced today the kick-off of the Signature Pro Bono Initiative, marking a significant milestone for the legal community in Tennessee and for individuals living in the state's underserved communities. As part of the Tennessee Pro Bono Services Alliance, this initiative will help deliver equal justice to Tennessee residents by focusing specifically on expungement, voter rights restoration and driver's license reinstatement.

International Paper is honored to partner with the following organizations for this initiative: Butler Snow LLP; Bass, Berry & Sims PLC; Memphis Area Legal Services; and Just City. More than 130 attorneys and paraprofessionals attended the initiative's virtual kick-off event held earlier today. Now, the company and its initiative allies are asking lawyers around the state to volunteer their time and knowledge to help bring awareness to these issues, to be an advocate on behalf of individuals in the criminal justice system, and to address the root causes that prevent equal justice for all residents in Tennessee.

"This initiative will help confront the issues within our criminal justice system that prevent our fellow citizens from moving forward and becoming responsible and productive citizens," said Sharon R. Ryan, Senior Vice President, General Counsel, International Paper. "We are excited to partner with these amazing organizations and challenge others throughout the state to join our efforts. Through our work we can advocate for change that will improve the lives of everyone in our communities and throughout our great state."

If you're a member of the legal community and would like to help, please contact Susan Mills at International Paper, email address: [email protected] or call (901) 419-7160.