Students Begin Orientation Week with Annual “In My Back Yard” Day of Service

Students gather in front law
 

On August 16, 2016, American University Washington College of Law welcomed incoming students with one of its most beloved public service traditions – the “In My Back Yard” (IMBY) public service day.

Before classes begin each year, students, faculty, and staff come together to participate in community service projects around Washington, D.C. IMBY sets the tone for a spirit of public service and community involvement infused throughout the law school. Participation in IMBY counts toward AUWCL’s Pro Bono Honors Pledge Program, which recognizes graduating students who have completed a minimum of 75 hours of pro bono legal assistance and community service. 

Hannah Montgomery, an incoming 1L from Dayton, Ohio, who volunteered at Capital Area Food Bank commented, “It was a great way to get to know my fellow classmates and serve others in the community at the same time.”

This year, over 150 members of the law school community volunteered their time by cleaning up the Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens, sorting and preparing boxed meals for Capital Area Food Bank, moving and distributing furniture for those transitioning out of shelters for A Wider Circle, and much more.

“It's great to have a group like this come out and help around the land. The work the students did in the meadows today will help the native grasses grow, and it allows the staff to focus on other things,” said Doug Rowley, gardener supervisor at Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens.

This year’s partner organizations included:

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