Our Mission

In response to the civil rights issues highlighted by police brutality, the 2020 pandemic, and the Black Lives Matter movement, Vela Wood created VW FWD in July of 2020.

VW FWD’s mission is to educate and provide opportunities for our employees to become agents of social change, and serve as a positive force within our firm’s communities.


Our Commitments

Donation

Beginning in 2020, we began and will continue to donate $500,000 over ten years to social justice causes focused on supporting Black Americans and other marginalized communities.

Awareness

We engage in regular internal discussion forums via the VW FWD Media Club.

Education

We learn more about Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion through sessions with DEI professionals.

Opportunities

We provide opportunities for members of our Firm to get involved in the communities of the Vela Wood offices through volunteer efforts.

Celebration

We celebrate Juneteenth as an annual Firm holiday.

Hire
We hire runners from historically Black colleges and universities in Austin and Dallas as a pathway for Black students interested in practicing law to step into a legal career.
Protest
We encourage members of our Firm to support causes that demand justice and an end to systemic racism.
Vote
We allow time for and encourage employees to research candidates and policies that support legislation that is important to them.
Our Awards

We were selected as a runner-up in the Diversity & Inclusion category for Clio’s 2022 Reisman Awards. The annual Reisman Awards recognize Clio’s law firm customers for displaying excellence in their fields and making an impact in their communities.

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Our Opportunities
LSAT Prep Course Scholarship
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Our VW FWD Impact Reports

Since 2020, VW FWD has donated $95,000 to social justice causes. Explore our VW FWD Impact Reports below to learn more about our pledge and commitments, donations and scholarships, educational efforts, and more.

Order with Purpose

On the last Friday of every month, Vela Wood reimburses each employee to order lunch from a minority owned restaurant. Click below to learn more and recommend minority owned restaurants in Austin or Dallas!

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VW FWD Partners

Vela Wood pledges to continue to provide opportunities for learning and involvement, foster open conversations and inclusivity, and support institutions focused on supporting Black Americans and other marginalized communities.

For Inquiries, contact

vwforward@velawoodlaw.com