Akerman was honored as the recipient of the highest award given by the Florida Guardian ad Litem (GAL) program, the "I am for the Child" award, for its commitment to promote volunteer advocacy for at-risk youth in the courtroom and community. The award was given in recognition of the hundreds of Akerman lawyers and staff who have volunteered their time, contributed pro bono legal services, and raised funds on behalf of abused and neglected foster children.

The Florida Bar News recognized the firm's significant work with GAL in an article titled, "Florida GAL program honors Akerman firm." Alan Abramowitz, executive director of the Statewide Guardian ad Litem Program, and Andrew Smulian, Akerman Chairman and CEO, were quoted regarding the collaborative effort to improve the lives of foster youth in Florida and throughout the United States.

"[Abramowitz] said over the past year, more than 100 Akerman attorneys and staff in Florida alone have become certified guardians ad litem for dependent youth, and every day additional lawyers and professionals from their firm are signing up to become GALs," The Florida Bar News wrote.

“Giving back is essential to our firm. It is part of our relationships with clients; it shapes the experiences of our people; and it drives us to be a positive force in our communities. We are committed to community partners who address the core needs of children and advocate for those without a voice. We are deeply humbled by this recognition of our work and are grateful to the Florida Statewide Guardian ad Litem Program for their continued collaboration on such an important and worthwhile cause," said Smulian.