Celebrating the 52nd Founders Breakfast: A Tribute to Community and Service

On a beautiful Tuesday morning, CNPLS hosted a memorable 52nd Founders Breakfast at the Collier Creative Center in Medford. This annual event brought together the organization’s founders, community stakeholders, and attorneys from Southern Oregon to honor the recipient of the esteemed William V. Deatherage Pro Bono Award.

This year’s award was presented to Daniel C. Thorndike, a distinguished member of the Southern Oregon Bar. Dan has dedicated his time and expertise to providing pro bono legal support to organizations such as Rogue Valley Farm to School, advocating for local agriculture and community well-being since its inception. With a legal career spanning decades, Dan’s journey began with his J.D. from the University of Washington in 1980. He currently serves as General Counsel for his family business, CSC Inc., in Medford.

The atmosphere of the breakfast was filled with appreciation and camaraderie as attendees listened to heartfelt testimonials about Dan’s commitment to justice and equity. Notably, Dan has held leadership roles in numerous organizations, including the Britt Music Festival, the Oregon Water Resource Commission, and the Southern Oregon University Foundation Board, often stepping in as president to guide these initiatives. His humility was evident as he expressed surprise and gratitude upon receiving the award, acknowledging the significant impact CNPLS has on the community.

Throughout the event, CNPLS Executive Director Debra FJ Lee welcomed attendees and set an inspiring tone for the day, emphasizing the importance of pro bono work. The program also featured speakers such as The Honorable Mark Clarke, United States Magistrate Judge, and representatives from local organizations, including the Carpenter Foundation and the Southern Oregon Land Conservancy.

The William V. Deatherage Pro Bono Award serves a vital purpose in recognizing the contributions of attorneys who tirelessly fight for equal access to justice, echoing Bill Deatherage’s legacy since the establishment of the Legal Aid Committee in 1966. Reflecting on the history of legal services in Jackson County, attendees reminisced about the early days when volunteer attorneys provided crucial support to those in need, leading to the formation of what is now CNPLS.

As the breakfast concluded, guests enjoyed a sense of unity and purpose, leaving motivated to continue their work in support of justice and equity for all residents of Southern Oregon.

Looking ahead, CNPLS is already preparing for the next Founders Breakfast in spring/summer 2025 and is actively seeking nominations for the next William V. Deatherage Pro Bono Award. For those interested in nominating an outstanding attorney or learning more about the nomination process, please fill out this online nomination form, call us directly.

Thank you to everyone who attended and to our generous sponsors for their ongoing support. Together, we can continue to make a meaningful difference in our community.