Stepping Up in This Defining Decade: Foster Garvey’s Pro Bono Support of The Nature Conservancy

Maggie Sholian (Associate, Portland) first got involved with assisting The Nature Conservancy at the request of a former Foster Garvey colleague. The Nature Conservancy tackles the dual threats of accelerated climate change and biodiversity loss to make the highest possible impact on the climate and biodiversity crisis between now and 2030. They work across the country and the globe in dense rainforests, remote coral reefs and in the hearts of major cities. Their team of dedicated staff, scientists, members and volunteers maximize their ability to affect change by bringing together real-world solutions, policy expertise, sustainable financing and collaborative partnerships. 

Searching for ways to use her trust and estate-related litigation skills, Maggie jumped at the opportunity to assist the Nature Conservancy with a variety of matters. While representing the organization, Maggie handled issues relating to charitable bequests. One matter involved a dispute where a decedent had gifted a few charities smaller amounts with requirements that did not all fit within the organization’s mission statement. To follow the decedent’s wishes and their mission, Maggie assisted The Nature Conservancy in returning a smaller portion of the endowment and was able to compromise without going into litigation, significantly saving the organization time and resources. She has also assisted the organization in avoiding further litigation on a matter related to a conditional gift.

The Foster Garvey Litigation team provides litigation and dispute resolution services across virtually all industries served by our firm. The Litigation team explores creative resolution options ranging from immediate injunctive relief to trial or arbitration, constantly seeking resolutions that are consistent with our client’s objectives. The Nature Conservancy’s expanded work with Foster Garvey is a model example of how clients, including pro bono clients, turn to Foster Garvey for their guidance in navigating challenging situations.