Member Spotlight

The Tarrant County Bar Foundation stands as a shining example of lawyer-driven philanthropy in North Texas, channeling the generosity and expertise of the local bar to make a meaningful difference in the community. Founded in 1997 under the auspices of the Tarrant County Bar Association, the Foundation has dedicated nearly three decades to advancing justice, service, and professionalism by funding vital community projects that provide essential legal services to those in need and educate the public about their rights and responsibilities under the law.

As a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization, the Foundation welcomes voluntary, tax-deductible contributions that fuel its important work—ensuring that access to justice remains within reach for Tarrant County’s most vulnerable residents.

A Commitment to Justice and Education

The Foundation pursues several core goals with unwavering focus:

• Supporting and promoting justice and legal education through sponsorship of legal research, publications, institutes, forums, and scholarships.
• Helping establish and sustain legal aid services for the indigent and working poor, while welcoming grants and support from both public and private sources.
• Offering financial assistance to attorneys and their families facing hardship, in line with IRS guidelines.

Through these efforts, the Foundation bolsters key local initiatives, including the Bar Center, robust pro bono programs, community outreach, the Texas Lawyers for Texas Veterans – Tarrant County Chapter (TLTV), and Tarrant County Volunteer Attorney Services (TVAS)—all of which extend the reach of compassionate legal support across the region.

Dedicated Leadership

Guiding this impactful work is the 2026 Board of Directors, a distinguished group of leaders committed to the Foundation’s mission:

• Brittani Rollen, Chair (Jackson Walker LLP)
• David Keltner, Chair-Elect (Kelly Hart & Hallman LLP)
• Aleed Rivera, Vice Chair (MHMR of Tarrant County)
• George Muckleroy, Treasurer (Sheats & Muckleroy, LLP)
• Geff Anderson, Director (Anderson & Riddle, LLP)
• Cody Cofer, Director (Cofer Luster Law Firm)
• John Corbin, Director (Law Office of John J. Corbin)
• Karen Denney, Director (Haynes and Boone, LLP)
• Claudine Jackson, Director (EOG Resources, Inc.)
• Philip Lamsens, Director (EOG Resources, Inc.)
• Steve Litke, Director (Bonds Ellis Eppich Schafer Jones, LLP)
• Judge Chris Taylor, Director (48th District Court)
• Philip Vickers, Director (Cantey Hanger LLP)
• John Wright, Director (McDonald Sanders, P.C.)
• Brad Parker, Immediate Past Chair (Parker Law Firm)

The Board can be reached at admin@tarrantbar.org for those interested in learning more or getting involved.

Recognizing Generosity Through the Fellows Program

The Foundation’s Fellows program celebrates attorneys who make sustained financial pledges to support its mission. Categories include Charter Fellows, Sustaining Charter Fellows, Sustaining Life Fellows, Life Fellows, and Fellows. Each year, select members of the Tarrant County Bar Association are invited to join, and Honorary Fellows are named occasionally for extraordinary service to justice and the profession. This program reflects the deep commitment of the local bar to sustaining access to justice for generations to come.

Empowering the Community Through Grants

One of the Foundation’s most visible impacts comes through its annual grants to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations delivering direct human, health, and welfare services. Priority is given to efforts aiding the impoverished, disaster victims, educational advancement via scholarships or loans, and initiatives that promote justice, legal education, research, publications, and forums.

Applications close April 15 each year, with awards announced by mid-June. In 2025, the Foundation proudly distributed $30,000 to support transformative projects, including:

• ACT: A Collaborative Legal Advocacy Solution to Fort Worth Crime ($3,000)
• Eldon B. Mahon Inn of Court: Mock Trial ($4,000)
• Guardianship Services: E3-Educate, Engage, Enroll ($2,500)
• L. Clifford Davis Legal Foundation: Aspiring Young Lawyers Summer Camp ($3,000)
• Methodist Justice Ministry: Legal Representation for Indigent Victims of Abuse and Neglect ($5,000)
• Pathfinders: Veterans Services ($10,000)
• YMCA of Metropolitan Fort Worth: Youth and Government ($2,500)

As a valued member of the National Conference of Bar Foundations (NCBF), the Tarrant County Bar Foundation joins a nationwide network dedicated to advancing access to justice through shared knowledge, collaboration, and innovative philanthropy. The NCBF is proud to spotlight this dynamic Foundation and its ongoing contributions to building a more just community.

For More Information

• About the Tarrant County Bar Foundation
• Board of Directors
• Fellows
• Grants