2025 DRI International Day of Service 

By: Heather L. Nelson, The Everson Law Firm

This year, the DRI Foundation held its fourth annual International Day of Service. DRI is the largest international membership organization of attorneys defending the interests of business and individuals in civil litigation. The DRI Foundation’s mission is to provide financial, educational, and volunteer aid to those in need.

The DRI Foundation asked state and local defense organizations (SLDOs) to hold a service project of their choice anytime during the month of September. Participation in the DRI International Day of Service gives SLDOs an opportunity to give back to the community and strengthen relationships. The International Day of Service is one of the first steps the Foundation is taking to expand, better coordinate, and streamline the holistic betterment of the civil defense bar. 

On September 17, 2025, WDC members Heather Nelson and Ryan Johnson of The Everson Law Firm, along with one of Everson’s paralegals, Kelly, and her daughter, Ivy, served meals at the New Community Shelter in support of DRI’s International Day of Service. 

The New Community Shelter, Inc. is a non-profit organization which provides shelter and supportive services to people experiencing homelessness from Brown County. The New Community Meal Program is open to any child or adult in need of a meal, whether residents of the facility or not. Dinner is served 365 days a year.

To learn more about the New Community Shelter, visit https://newcommunityshelter.org/. 

The adults and children at the New Community Shelter were very grateful for Heather, Ryan, Kelly, and Ivy’s service. At the end of the meal, a woman who they served handed them the following note: 

Thank you to The Everson Law Firm for representing WDC and the Women in the Law Committee in participation of DRI’s fourth annual International Day of Service! 

Stay tuned to hear about other volunteer events taking place throughout the state as part of this and other initiatives! 

Author Biography:

Heather Nelson is current Past President and Shareholder of Everson, Whitney, Everson & Brehm, S.C., in Green Bay. She currently serves as WDC President, having served on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee as well. Heather is an experienced trial attorney, having successfully tried cases before juries in state and federal courts throughout Wisconsin and Illinois.