After earning her law degree from Loyola Law School in New Orleans, Ebner took a job with Legal Aid and dedicated her life to helping people in poverty. "Most people don't even realize the depth of poverty that existed in New Orleans before [hurricane] Katrina," she said. "Working with people in poverty became my passion. I learned every single day about poverty…and myself."

As a pro bono attorney, Ebner helps further BCAP's mission of providing support, advocacy, and education to persons affected by HIV/AIDS.

The social security process can be "very overwhelming and challenging for an individual already dealing with health issues," said Ana Hopperstad, Care Services Coordinator at BCAP. "Ebner's warmth, compassion and calm demeanor put clients at ease. Her dedication, loyalty and advocacy have made a real difference in the lives of many people living with HIV. Ebner has a true gift helping those who have been historically underserved."

Although Ebner works mostly on social security cases, she has also worked on Medicaid and welfare cases. "I enjoy making a difference in somebody's life. Once you get them on social security so they're financially stable, they can focus on other aspects of their life, such as medical care," said Ebner.

She added that she loves working with the staff at BCAP. "They're incredible…I admire them and really appreciate what they do."

Ebner's advice for people considering becoming a pro bono attorney: "You need a lot of understanding and patience to work with people in poverty. They have special needs unique to that socioeconomic status and you are only dealing with one issue."

So what has kept Ebner dedicated to helping those less fortunate than herself? "Helping the poor has been my life. I became a lawyer to make a difference and I'm doing it," Ebner said. "I like helping people and I like winning!"

For information about volunteering with Boulder County AIDS Project or other agencies, call the Volunteer Connection at 303-444-4904, or go to our Volunteer Central.