Bags N’ Brunch 2025: A Community Service Event with Lasting Impact

On Saturday, February 8, 2025, the San Diego County Bar Association’s New Lawyer Division (“NLD”) partnered with the San Diego Urban League Young Professionals (“SDULYP) for the second annual Bags N’ Brunch—an inspiring day of community service, connection, and empowerment. This year’s event not only continued a meaningful tradition but also expanded its impact, bringing together volunteers dedicated to making a difference in the lives of individuals experiencing hardship.

As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. once said:

“Life’s most persistent and urgent question is: What are you doing for others?”

Bags N’ Brunch was a powerful answer to that question, proving that even small acts of service can make a meaningful difference when done together.

A Collaboration Rooted in Purpose

The partnership between NLD and SDULYP reflects a shared commitment to community engagement and economic empowerment. For over 20 years, SDULYP has championed the diverse needs of the region, creating opportunities for young professionals to contribute their skills and energy to meaningful causes. 

Claudia Salinas, Chair of the NLD, worked closely with Soleil Wallen-Balmir, Community Service Chair of SDULYP, to be intentional about planning an event that would foster service and connection during Black History Month. Their collaboration ensured that Bags N’ Brunch not only addressed immediate needs but also uplifted and celebrated Black-owned businesses and community-led initiatives.

Packing Bags, Building Community

The day began with a service session at Sharia’s Closet, a local nonprofit that provides free emergency clothing to individuals and families experiencing crisis. Founded by Shamine Linton, Sharia’s Closet is more than a place to find clothing—it is a source of dignity and confidence for those who need it most. Volunteers spent the morning carefully assembling care bags filled with hygiene products, clothing, and essential supplies. These bags would soon find their way into the hands of individuals in San Diego County, offering not just material aid but a reminder that they are seen and supported.

For those who couldn’t attend but still want to help, Sharia’s Closet continues to need donations of clothing, hygiene products, and household essentials. Visit Sharia’s Closet’s website to learn more about their most urgently needed items and how to contribute.

Brunch with a Mission

Following the service portion of the day, volunteers gathered at Trust Restaurant San Diego, a Black-owned establishment that perfectly embodied the spirit of the event. With a philosophy centered around connection and shared experiences, Trust provided a welcoming space for participants to reflect on the morning’s work while fostering deeper relationships within the community.

The restaurant’s owner and chef, Brad Wise, believes in the power of reliability, truth, and strength—values that strongly resonated with the mission of Bags N’ Brunch. Over delicious shared plates, attendees engaged in meaningful conversations about service, equity, and ways to sustain long-term impact beyond one-time events.

You Can Still Get Involved! 

While the New Lawyers Division partners with SDULYP annually for Bags N’ Brunch, you don’t have to wait until next year to give back! SDULYP hosts Bags N’ Brunch every month on the second Saturday at Sharia’s Closet, and they always welcome volunteers to help continue this important work.

Additionally, this week is SDULYP’s “Join Week,” making it the perfect time to get involved! 

👉 Learn more about SDULYP and their mission: SDULYP Website
👉 Sign up to become a member: Join SDULYP

Looking Ahead: A Growing Tradition

With over 20 volunteers participating, this year’s Bags N’ Brunch was a resounding success. The event reinforced that small acts of service, when done collectively, can create lasting change.

As NLD and SDULYP continue to build on this tradition, they welcome new partners and volunteers who are eager to engage in community service. Whether it’s packaging care bags, supporting local businesses, or finding innovative ways to uplift those in need, there are countless ways to get involved.

If you or your organization would like to collaborate on future community service events, reach out to the NLD leadership—because when we come together in service, we create a stronger, more compassionate community.

Let’s keep the momentum going. See you at next year’s Bags N’ Brunch!