Getting Out and Staying Out (GOSO), a non-profit organization helping formerly and currently incarcerated young men gain work experience, education and life skills, has named Debevoise & Plimpton LLP its Corporate Partner of the Year.
The organization is regarded as one of the most effective reentry programs in NYC, with fewer than 15% of GOSO participants returning to jail, compared to the national average of 67%. They provide numerous programs aimed at helping clients find not only short-term employment, but, through education and specialized training, discover a path towards a long-term career.
“It is an honor to be recognized by this life-changing organization,” remarked Debevoise partner Sean Hecker, who will be accepting the award on behalf of the firm at the organization’s Annual Gala on April 25th. “We look forward to our continued partnership.”
Over the past two years, volunteers from Debevoise have attended monthly interview skills workshops, offering hands-on support preparing GOSO clients for entrance into the workforce. Specifically, volunteers participate in mock interviews, providing each GOSO client with personalized feedback and tips. Since the organization was founded in 2013, GOSO has placed 350 participants in subsidized employment. Seventy-five percent of these placements have resulted in full-time employment.
“Debevoise employees always offer useful feedback and advice to the GOSO Guys, who then leave with more confidence to go out and conquer their real-life interviews,” said Emily Barnard, Volunteer Coordinator for GOSO. “It takes true openness to dive into the work that we do, and the volunteers from Debevoise approach our clients with understanding and an eagerness to get to know them.”
Debevoise has also provided pro bono legal representation to GOSO clients, both in criminal appeals and in a civil rights action.
“We are so happy to be a part of GOSO’s efforts to change lives,” said Sarah Wolf, an associate at Debevoise who has recruited volunteers for GOSO and currently chairs the organization’s newly formed Action Board committee. “It is a pleasure to be able to work with the organization to give back to the community in such a meaningful way.”
Debevoise & Plimpton LLP is a premier law firm with market-leading practices, a global perspective and strong New York roots. We deliver effective solutions to our clients’ most important legal challenges, applying clear commercial judgment and a distinctively collaborative approach.