Kristin Solomon, southern regional director for the Guardian Ad Litem program in the state, the Florida arm of the National Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Association, spoke with the Palm Beach Post about the impact Akerman's partnership has had on Florida's foster youth. Akerman is the first law firm to partner nationally with the National CASA Association, so in many ways Akerman is setting the standard for law firm partnerships at the local level. In addition to the firm's historic $1 million pledge, Akerman is working closely with CASA/GAL to pilot innovative philanthropic and pro bono programs that benefit foster children and aging-out adults.

"Children in foster care really have a lot of struggles and education is one of them, because often they have been moved from house to house and changed schools. The [Akerman] pledge will help us advocate for stability but the scholarship will help for those going into adult life with post-secondary educational needs. It will help them go to a college, pay for books and have opportunities just like any other child," said Kristen Solomon, National CASA's southern regional director for the Florida Guardian ad Litem Program.