Pro Bono For Social Innovation
Pro Publico successfully matched Brussels-based EASIN – the European Alliance for Social Innovation, with legal experts from Dentons to provide crucial pro bono legal assistance. This partnership contributed to advancing social innovation and democratic participation in Europe, aligning with the European Commission’s goals of a just and inclusive transition.
The Beneficiary: EASIN’s Mission for Change
EASIN, founded by Vasiliki Katsikerou, Dimitra Kladia and Sotiria Tsalamani, is a newly established ASBL in Belgium, dedicated to fostering active participation in decision-making and promoting social innovation through green, digital, and entrepreneurial competencies. EASIN’s projects focus on policy research, capacity building, advocacy, and outreach aimed at creating a skilled, resilient and democratic Europe.
Their mission connects grassroots communities with the EU’s strategic priorities in education, democracy, and social inclusion, ensuring that citizens are equipped with the necessary skills for a fairer economy.
The Legal Challenge and Pro Bono Support
As a newly formed nonprofit, EASIN needed guidance on establishing their ASBL, including legal advice on their governance structure and a review of their drafted articles of association. Additionally, they required support to ensure the accuracy of the French translation of their legal documents.
Pro Publico connected EASIN with Dentons team composed of Aurore Ancion, Martijn Segers and Laurens Engelen, who stepped in to provide pro bono legal advice. The Dentons team offered detailed guidance on Belgian nonprofit law and reviewed EASIN’s governance documents, ensuring their alignment with legal standards.
Case Progress and the Result
The collaboration progressed smoothly, with EASIN receiving timely and expert legal assistance. Dentons reviewed EASIN’s governance documentation and provided insights into the complexities of Belgian law for nonprofits. The beneficiaries appreciated the ongoing communication and responsiveness of the legal team. EASIN is now prepared to submit their documents to the court, expecting to formally establish their ASBL by the end of 2024.
This pro bono support was essential in helping EASIN secure their legal foundation, enabling them to focus on their mission to bridge grassroots challenges with the EU policy framework. EASIN’s founders are confident that the legal assistance has set them on the path to success in creating a skilled and democratic Europe.
Beneficiary Feedback
Sotiria Tsalamani, one of EASIN’s co-founders, shared her thoughts on the process: “The pro bono assistance was exceptional—timely, professional, and extremely helpful for our case. The team’s support has been crucial to ensuring our project stays on track.”
Provider’s Satisfaction
Laurens Engelen, Partner at Dentons, expressed his fulfilment in contributing to EASIN’s cause, highlighting the rewarding nature of pro bono work in supporting impactful social initiatives. The team was further composed of Aurore Ancion and Martijn Segers, both of whom regularly contribute to a variety of pro bono initiatives, including a recent presentation to various global CSO’s on the registration process and legal formalities in relation to Belgian non-profit entities.
Pro Publico’s Role in Empowering Social Innovation
This collaboration underscores Pro Publico’s commitment to democratising access to legal expertise for civil society, ensuring organisations like EASIN have the tools they need to thrive and contribute to Europe’s just transition.
Interested in how pro bono legal assistance can support your nonprofit? Contact Pro Publico to explore how we can help your mission succeed.
Thanks to @Laurens Engelen, @Ancion Aurore, @Martijn Segers, @Vasiliki Katsikerou, @Sotiria Tsalamani, @Dimitra Kladia @Dentons @EASIN @ProPublico @Francesco Zatelli
#ProBono #LegalSupport #SocialInnovation #JustTransition #NonprofitLaw #EUInnovation #GreenTransition