Genesee County Pro Bono Attorney of the Year Brian Barkey walks the walk.

With a large pro bono docket and an even larger heart for vulnerable clients, the highly-respected social security attorney donates a serious amount of his time to helping those in need.

In fact, despite a significant pro bono caseload of his own, he responded to Legal Services of Eastern Michigan’s (LSEM’s) call for private attorney volunteers for their 2014 “Ask the Lawyer” event. And his work at the event was so good that it earned him the attorney of the year award, which LESM gives annually to a Genesee County Bar Association (GCBA) member who selflessly and graciously gives valuable time and energy to provide free legal assistance to impoverished community members.

Barkey also supports and promotes mentorship programs, sharing his knowledge with novice lawyers, and gives freely to his community. He selflessly orchestrates the GCBA Holiday Dinner every year, which he has done since 1992. This holiday event brings meals, gifts, Santa Claus, and joy to over 1,000 community members annually.

In addition, Barkey is an active member in the GCBA Community Action Committee, Social Security Committee, SBM Social Security Section, and Inns of Court.

Andrea Rossi, a staff attorney with LSEM said they are extremely grateful for the indispensable value Barkey adds to the community.

—Jacklyn Thomas, Robert Mathis, and Lynn Ingram contributed to this story.