Oct 17, 2024 | Inside Thomson Reuters

As we commemorate Global Pro Bono Week, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the significant pro bono projects Thomson Reuters has undertaken in the past year. These initiatives showcase our commitment to leveraging our expertise and resources to drive positive change in the legal and business sectors globally. Let’s take a closer look at three standout projects that have made a considerable impact: 

1) Advancing Transformational Governance with the UN Global Compact 

Thomson Reuters supported the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) with the launch of their Transformational Governance Toolkit, an initiative aligned with Sustainable Development Goal 16. By providing practical insights and actionable steps, the guide empowers companies to align their governance structures with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and create long-term value for all stakeholders.  

Thomson Reuters assembled a cross-functional team of experts who volunteered their time and skills to assist the UNGC in developing key messages, conducting landscape research analysis, and creating detailed audience personas for the toolkit’s launch campaign. Over the course of two half-day pro bono sprints, the Thomson Reuters team provided valuable marketing and communication strategies that the resource-limited UNGC team could not have developed on their own. This collaboration not only aided in the successful launch of the Transformational Governance Toolkit in February 2024 but also exemplifies how pro bono work can provide major influence in a very short amount of time.  Read more about our work together. 

2) Increasing Capacity and Reach for Lawyers Without Borders 

Through two IMPACTathon sessions, Thomson Reuters employees volunteered their expertise to address critical challenges faced by Lawyers Without Borders (LWOB). The first session focused on developing a Marketing and Communications Strategy, helping LWOB clarify their messaging and better articulate their impact. The second session tackled program and project management systems, providing LWOB with concrete solutions to streamline their operations. These initiatives demonstrate how skilled professionals can leverage their knowledge to significantly enhance a nonprofit’s capacity and effectiveness. 

The impact of these pro bono efforts extends far beyond the 58 hours volunteered or the $11,500 value of services provided. By improving LWOB’s ability to communicate their mission and manage their projects more efficiently, Thomson Reuters’ pro bono work has indirectly contributed to serving hundreds, if not thousands, more individuals in need of legal support worldwide. This case study highlights how pro bono consulting can create a ripple effect, amplifying a nonprofit’s reach and impact. It showcases the potential of corporate skills-based volunteering to drive meaningful change in the pursuit of global justice and human rights, ultimately demonstrating that when professionals donate their time and expertise, they can help organizations overcome critical challenges and achieve their missions more effectively. Read more about our work together. 

3) Driving Legal Inclusion and Access to Justice with the Justice Technology Association 

Through two consecutive long-term pro bono projects, Thomson Reuters employees volunteered their expertise to support the Justice Technology Association, a newly formed organization dedicated to bringing together tech entrepreneurs to pursue equity in the justice system. The first project focused on developing clear messaging and a well-defined value proposition for JTA, resulting in a robust strategic key messaging document and a pitch deck for potential members and investors. The second project involved creating a new website to enhance JTA’s online presence, reach, and SEO capabilities. 

These pro bono efforts, totaling over 850 volunteer hours valued at nearly $167,000, demonstrate how skilled professionals can leverage their knowledge to significantly enhance a nonprofit’s capacity and effectiveness in the justice technology sector. By improving JTA’s ability to communicate its mission and attract new members and partners, Thomson Reuters’ pro bono work has indirectly contributed to making the legal system more accessible and fairer for everyone. This case study highlights how corporate skills-based volunteering can drive meaningful change in the pursuit of a more equitable justice system, ultimately demonstrating that when professionals donate their time and expertise, they can help organizations overcome critical challenges and achieve their missions of increasing access to justice for all. Read more about our work together. 

As we celebrate Global Pro Bono Week, these projects serve as a testament to the power of collaboration and the positive impact that can be achieved when businesses dedicate their skills and knowledge to social causes. By supporting organizations like the UN Global Compact, Lawyers Without Borders, and the Justice Technology Association, we’re helping to advance sustainable business practices, strengthen the rule of law, and promote innovation in the justice sector.  

Thomson Reuters remains committed to continuing our pro bono efforts, driving positive change, and contributing to a more just and sustainable world.