As part of Husch Blackwell’s Communities for Change program, the firm’s Springfield office has donated $8,000 to help with repairs of historic Pitts Chapel United Methodist Church.
Pitts Chapel was established in 1847 as Wilson's Creek Chapel when a group of slaves in Springfield received permission for a place of worship and religious studies. It is the longest continuously worshipping African-American Church in Springfield. The current building was constructed in 1911; the HB Communities for Change grant will assist with necessary ceiling repairs, electrical work and new lighting in the sanctuary.
“Husch Blackwell Communities for Change Initiative provided the Springfield attorneys and staff an opportunity to identify areas of need in our Springfield black community,” said Bryan Wade, managing partner of Husch Blackwell’s Springfield office. “The process introduced us to the Pitts Chapel church family and we are grateful for it. We hope that our donation will assist in bringing back an iconic and historical place of worship and we look forward to continuing our relationship with the Pitts Chapel church family.”
The firm launched its HB Communities for Change initiative in July 2020. Its goal is to harness the energy of its offices to make positive change in the United States with respect to racial justice.