The year-long partnership means that MMM lawyers and staff members will provide financial, legal and hands-on assistance throughout the coming 12 months.
“Our House’s partnership with Morris, Manning and Martin’s MMMPact initiative underscores our shared commitment to making a positive impact on ending the cycle of family homelessness,” said Our House President and CEO Tyese Lawyer. “The financial gift from the firm, combined with invaluable fundraising, volunteer, marketing and PR support, will empower us to expand our reach and provide vital services to even more families experiencing homelessness in greater Atlanta.”
Matt Flower, a partner in MMM’s Corporate, Investment Funds, Mergers & Acquisitions and Hospitality practices, co-chairs the nonprofit’s board. He first volunteered with the group six years ago, when it primarily served families with infants under six months old.
“It brought me back to when my daughters were born and I can’t imagine not having a home to bring them to,” Flower said. “That really resonated with me.”
In recent years, Our House expanded its mission to serve families experiencing homelessness who have at least one child under five years old. It is one of the few organizations of its kind that allow family members to stay together either in dormitory-style rooms – most with private bathrooms – or in permanent housing.
MMM’s assistance will include everything from legal work to rocking babies, culminating in their annual Cheers wine-tasting fundraiser next spring. Lawyers and staff members will also volunteer with Our House’s annual Wheels4walls event Nov. 11 in which families will voluntarily spend a night in their cars to better understand the challenges of families experiencing homelessness. MMMPact has donated almost $2.3 million to more than 240 organizations since its inception in 2012. Its many outreaches include Community Involvement, Civic Leadership, Pro Bono, Women’s and Diversity Initiatives. The Diversity Initiative also includes the MMMPOWER LGBTQ Affinity Group.