The application period for the 2026 Award is now open.
Made possible by the generous contributions of Ilene and Michael Shaw, the Federal Bar Association each year seeks to recognize the many public service programs sponsored by FBA chapters nationwide. Designed to assist and encourage members in providing service to their communities, the Ilene and Michael Shaw Public Service Award not only gives needed funds to continue such worthwhile efforts, but also provides $10,000 of seed money to plan and implement public service programs. When applying for these grants, chapters should consider or take into account the following:
- The initial project shall be implemented for the upcoming fiscal year and can be extended to the following year.
- Chapters are urged to appoint an Awards Project Chair for a minimum two-year term to ensure continuity.
- Preferably, the project should have a nexus with the administration of justice and the federal courts.
- A follow-up report will be required from chapters granted the awards regarding how the award money was used and the success of the program.
- The grant will be based on the chapter’s ability to implement the project by securing matching and/or continuing funds in the event they receive the grant.
- Applicants and awardees will be eligible to apply again the following year for continuing funds if they successfully initiate a program in the upcoming fiscal year.
Chapters are encouraged to submit innovative programs and projects for consideration because each year the committee will select a model project for future years. In an effort to stimulate similar programs, the project documentation is available to other chapters upon request from FBA headquarters.
If you have any questions regarding this application, please contact awards@fedbar.org.
2026 award applications are due May 15.
Please fill out the following fields in full and upload all supporting documents.