On May 19, 2025, Vishal Chander, principal of The Chander Law Firm PC and co-chair of the Asian American Bar Association of New York’s (AABANY) Issues Committee, organized a Team AABANY to participate in the annual AAPI 5K charity race. The initiative raised funds to benefit the Asian American Law Fund of New York (AALFNY) and its ongoing public interest work.
In his role as co-chair, Chander coordinated AABANY’s official involvement in the event, bringing together attorneys, law students, and supporters from across New York’s legal community. The effort highlighted a growing commitment within the profession to support programs serving Asian American and Pacific Islander communities through both advocacy and action.
AALFNY, a 501(c)(3) affiliate of AABANY, directs funding toward several cornerstone initiatives, including AABANY’s pro bono legal clinics, the Anti-Asian Violence Task Force, and public interest scholarships for law students pursuing careers in service. Funds raised through Team AABANY’s participation will directly support the continuation and expansion of these programs.
Team AABANY’s participation marked the first time AABANY joined the AAPI 5K as an organized charity team. The group’s involvement also reflects a wider emphasis within the bar association on strengthening partnerships, increasing outreach, and fostering civic participation outside of traditional legal spaces.
