Serving our community in foundational ways.
We The People
(Civics Learning Project)
We are thrilled to announce our partnership with Civics Learning Project (CLP) as an inaugural sponsor of their We The People program. CLP is Oregon's leader in preparing youth to become active, engaged, and informed participants in our democratic society, and their mission aligns perfectly with our own values of empowerment through education and advocacy.
Our founder, Sunny, has been a dedicated Unit 3 Coach for the We The People program for the past five years. He takes great pride in mentoring and preparing AP Government High School seniors for the constitution debate program, helping them develop critical thinking, public speaking, and civic engagement skills. Sunny's personal naturalization story has made this partnership especially meaningful, as it resonates with his citizenship own journey and the importance of creating a strong sense of community.
As part of our sponsorship, As Your Counsel is excited to support the launch of a new service opportunity for We The People competitors. In collaboration with SOAR (Sponsors Organized to Assist Refugees), we will be offering these students the chance to teach citizenship classes for aspiring American citizens. This initiative not only allows the students to give back to their community but also fosters the value of civic participation. We believe that by investing in the education and empowerment of young people, we are helping to build a future where individuals are equipped to stand up for their rights and the rights of others.
Through our partnership with Civics Learning Project, we aim to extend our reach and impact, supporting not only our clients but also the youth in our community. Together, As Your Counsel and Civics Learning Project are working to create a more informed, engaged, and empowered society, one that values education, advocacy, and community service.
South Asian Bar Association
(SABA-OR)
Growing up between distinct cultural worlds has had a profound impact on Sunny’s personal and professional journey. This unique experience has instilled in him a deep understanding of the importance of being seen, heard, and supported, particularly in the legal profession where imposter syndrome is prevalent among lawyers from underrepresented groups. As someone who has navigated the challenges and opportunities of straddling different cultural identities, Sunny has developed a strong passion for fostering inclusive and supportive communities.
This passion has driven him to become actively involved in organizations that champion diversity and inclusion in the legal field. In 2019, he co-founded the Oregon chapter of the South Asian Bar Association (SABA-OR), an organization dedicated to creating a space where South Asian legal professionals can feel heard, seen, and supported.
At AYC, our experiences and values are deeply ingrained in the work we do. We strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for our clients and team members, recognizing the importance of diversity in perspectives and backgrounds. By fostering a culture of empathy, understanding, and support, we aim to break down barriers and provide high-quality legal services to individuals and businesses from all walks of life. We’re proud to lead a firm that prioritizes community engagement and is dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.
Inclusive Business Resource Network
(IBRN)
As Your Counsel is proud to partner with the Inclusive Business Resource Network (IBRN), a citywide program that brings together multiple services for small businesses into a single network for entrepreneurs. IBRN's commitment to serving entrepreneurs of color, immigrants, women founders, and other underrepresented communities aligns perfectly with our own dedication to supporting diverse businesses and fostering inclusive economic growth in Portland.
Our founder, Sunny, has worked closely with various IBRN partner organizations, to provide valuable legal insights and guidance to Latino business owners. Through a series of presentations, Sunny has shared his expertise on crucial topics such as creating LLCs, drafting operating agreements, and other essential aspects of forming a small business. These presentations have been met with enthusiasm and have led to numerous client engagements, demonstrating the tangible impact of our collaboration with IBRN.
At AYC, we believe that by partnering with organizations like IBRN, we can make a significant difference in the lives of entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds. By providing access to legal services, business advice, and other essential resources, we are helping to level the playing field and create opportunities for success. Our work with IBRN is a testament to our commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable business landscape in Portland, and we look forward to continuing this important partnership in the years to come.
We are deeply committed to engaging with and supporting the local community in Portland, Oregon. As a community-focused law firm, we believe in the importance of building strong relationships with the people and businesses that make our city thrive. Our team actively participates in various community initiatives, from networking with local business owners through the Portland Small Business Network to offering assistance to Prosper Portland, a local community development organization. We also serve as mentors for college and graduate students at Portland State University, helping to shape the next generation of leaders.
Our dedication to community engagement is rooted in the values and experiences of our people. Sunny's diverse background and passion for culture and inclusion have led him to become a founding member, former Treasurer, and current President of the South Asian Bar Association (SABA) - Oregon chapter. Similarly, JC's extensive experience in public service, education, and business has instilled in him a deep appreciation for the power of community empowerment and engagement.
At AYC, we strive to integrate our commitment to the community into every aspect of our work. Whether we are providing personalized legal and business services to our clients or volunteering our time and expertise to local organizations, we are driven by a desire to make a positive impact on the lives of those around us. We believe that by fostering strong connections within our community, we can create a more vibrant, supportive, and prosperous Portland for all.