George Brode will not only be remembered as an earnest, hard worker dedicated to his legal profession, but as a kind, warm-hearted philanthropist. With a gift from Mr. Brode's estate to the CBF that totaled approximately $2.1 million, the CBF set up the George Brode Fund. The Fund provides a lasting memorial for Mr. Brode while making a significant contribution to the welfare of our community by supporting a variety of innovative access to justice initiatives.

Through the Brode Fund, the CBF was able to provide $400,000 of critical seed funding in Mr. Brode's name to help launch the then groundbreaking new access to justice initiative now known as Illinois Legal Aid Online.

The Brode Fund also served as a longer-term vehicle that allowed the CBF to fund a number of fellowships through Equal Justice Works, and made it possible for the CBF to significantly expand our pro bono and advocacy efforts.

Mr. Brode attended Northwestern University on full scholarship, where he earned his law degree. Upon graduation in 1933 he received the law school's highest academic honor by being named to the Order of Coif. Graduating at the height of the Depression, Mr. Brode decided to go into business prior to beginning his legal career. He obtained one of the first liquor licenses issued in Chicago at the termination of Prohibition, and went on to pursue several successful business endeavors in the liquor industry. In the 1950's he returned to the legal profession and started his own firm, which specialized in probate law.

George Brode passed away in August of 1999 at the age of 89, but his legacy of commitment to public service continues through the CBF Brode Fund.