In response to the growing AIDS epidemic in New York City, the VOLS AIDS Project was formed over twenty years ago to greater involve trusts and estates lawyers in providing pro bono legal services to people with AIDS.

       Initially, the VOLS AIDS Project served those who were very ill and facing imminent death.  Due to dramatic changes in the course and treatment of AIDS, far fewer people are being treated in hospitals.  Now our services are provided in out-patient and community-based settings, although volunteer lawyers continue to assist persons who are homebound or in the hospital, when needed. Lifetime planning remains the major focus of the project.

       The VOLS AIDS Project operates at these sites: the AIDS Service Center NYC; the GMHC Department of Advocacy and Legal Services; New York-Presbyterian Hospital's Center for Special Studies, and South Brooklyn Legal Services.

       In 2008, 93 clients were served.

       A partner at a participating law firm, upon ending his service as a VOLS board member, wrote: "I, and other members of our firm, will continue to participate actively and passionately in the VOLS AIDS project.  With gratitude to VOLS for having given trusts and estates lawyers like ourselves a unique opportunity to apply our skills pro bono publico."