CHESTERTOWN — Dickson Young, a retired founding partner of Whitestone Young, P.C., has joined The Shelter Alliance Board of Directors.
With nearly 50 years of experience as a trial attorney, Young brings to the organization “a lifelong commitment to helping those in need, protecting individual rights and advancing justice and service within the community,” a news release states.
According to its website, The Shelter Alliance’s mission is to support individuals experiencing homelessness by offering a safe and welcoming environment, along with essential services to help them rebuild their lives.
Throughout his legal career, Young has represented individuals facing some of the most consequential challenges of their lives. His work as a trial lawyer has been grounded in the belief that every person deserves to be heard, treated with dignity and afforded a meaningful opportunity to obtain justice — regardless of their circumstances.
His professional philosophy remains simple yet powerful: to leave no stone unturned in the defense of freedom.
“Serving others has always been at the heart of my work,” Young said in a statement. “For nearly 50 years, I have had the privilege of standing beside people when they needed an advocate. Joining the board of The Shelter Alliance provides another opportunity to contribute to our community, support an important mission and help make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.”
Young’s dedication to service extends well beyond his private legal practice.
He has devoted significant time to pro bono legal work and support for legal education, including his longstanding connection with George Mason University’s Antonin Scalia Law School.
His commitment to the next generation of lawyers reflects his belief that the legal profession carries a responsibility not only to its clients, but also to the broader community.
His community involvement also includes 30 years of board service to the Wildlife Center of Virginia, reflecting his longstanding commitment to organizations dedicated to protecting vulnerable members of the community — whether people, animals or the natural environment.
Young said his role on The Shelter Alliance’s board will enable him “to give voice to a part of the community that has none and needs help.”
Over the course of his career, Young has earned recognition from his peers for his accomplishments as a trial attorney, including an AV Preeminent® rating from Martindale-Hubbell and recognition by legal publications and professional organizations. Yet he has consistently regarded professional achievement as inseparable from the responsibility to give back.
“Dickson brings an extraordinary combination of legal experience, compassion, judgment and commitment to public service,” said Genevieve Menard, president of The Shelter Alliance. “His career demonstrates what it means to use professional skills in service to others. We are honored to welcome him to our board and look forward to the perspective and leadership he will bring to our organization.”
According to the news release, Young’s appointment reflects The Shelter Alliance’s continuing commitment to strong, engaged community leadership. His experience advocating for individuals, his dedication to pro bono service and his belief in equal justice will provide valuable guidance as the organization advances its mission.
For Young, the opportunity represents a continuation — not a departure — from a career devoted to service.
“Whether in a courtroom, through pro bono work, or by serving organizations that strengthen our community, I have always believed that we have an obligation to help those who need an advocate,” Young said. “I look forward to bringing that same dedication to my service on this board.”
To learn more about The Shelter Alliance, go to www.shelteralliancemd.org.
