SOLACE, an acronym for Support of Lawyers, All Concern Encouraged, is a new Rhode Island Bar Association program, allowing Bar members to reach out, in a meaningful and compassionate way, to their colleagues. SOLACE communications are through voluntary participation in an email-based network through which Bar members may ask for help or volunteer to assist others with medical or other matters.
Issues addressed through SOLACE may range from a need for information about, and assistance with, major medical problems, to recovery from an office fire, and from the need for temporary professional space to help for an out-of-state family member.
The program is quite simple, but the effects are significant. Bar members notify the association when they need help, or learn of another bar member with a need, or if they have something to share or donate. Requests for, or offers of, help are screened and then directed through the SOLACE volunteer email network where members may then respond. On a related note, members using SOLACE may request, and be assured of, anonymity for any requests for, or offers of, help. For more information visit www.ribar.com.