More than 130 volunteers from 13 international law firms spent a day at the Crossroads Foundation premises in Tuen Mun, Hong Kong at the end of March, participating in a pro bono activity with a difference.

Swapping their suits for overalls, these volunteers worked in teams on manual tasks such as painting containers and walls, laying interior flooring, loading a container with household furniture and goods destined for those in need in Israel, and helping with administrative office work.

Allen & Overy initiated and participated in the event. The other participating firms were Baker & McKenzie, Clyde & Co, Davis Polk, Freshfields, Mallesons, Minter Ellison, Morrison & Foerster, Orrick, Pinsent Masons, Skadden, Weil, Gotshal & Manges, and White & Case.

These firms are all members of the Hong Kong Legal Community Roundtable.  The roundtable comprises a large number of law firms who meet regularly to identify how they can benefit the community through volunteer and pro bono activities. 

"We are facing challenging times and it is more important than ever that we continue our support for NGOs such as Crossroads," said Allen & Overy partner Catherine Husted, who initiated and organised the event. "Each firm makes its own contribution, but [this event] shows how we can make an even bigger impact on the community by collaborating together."

Crossroads is a Hong Kong-based non profit organisation that identifies humanitarian needs and responds by collecting and delivering goods to people locally and internationally. The Tuen Mun premises is home to donations ranging from food, clothing and medical supplies to stationery, children's toys and electrical goods. 

"They say that it's times of challenge that reveal character. Given the current economic crisis, then, the example of the legal community's service at Crossroads speaks loudly. For, while many are feeling the 'pinch' of the crisis, millions in need globally are feeling a 'punch'. The gift of service was both timely and one that we hope will have a ripple effect to many in need, both locally and around the world," said David Begbie, a spokesperson for Crossroads Foundation.