At Maxwell Locke & Ritter, giving back to our community is a core part of who we are—and this May, we had the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in honor of a colleague who has long exemplified that spirit.

As we celebrated the retirement of A.J. Zimmerhanzel, whose decades-long career at ML&R was marked not only by professional excellence but also by a deep commitment to service, our firmwide community initiative was dedicated to two organizations close to A.J.’s heart: Meals on Wheels of Central Texas and the Austin Humane Society.

Supporting Meals on Wheels of Central Texas

Founded in 1972, Meals on Wheels of Central Texas provides nutritious, home-delivered meals to more than 5,000 older adults and individuals with disabilities across the region. In addition to combating food insecurity, the organization helps reduce social isolation by offering daily check-ins and essential support services, enabling clients to age in place with dignity.

Thanks to the generosity of our team, we raised over $2,000 to support their mission. These funds will help provide critical meals and care to vulnerable neighbors throughout Central Texas.

Giving Back to the Austin Humane Society

Our team also supported the Austin Humane Society, the oldest and largest no-kill, non-profit animal shelter in Austin. Since 1952, AHS has been a compassionate voice for animals in need. With over 40 employees and more than 700 volunteers, the organization cares for more than 11,000 animals each year. Their lifesaving work spans adoption services, spay/neuter programs, community engagement, and crisis support for both pets and their people.

Our team was able to donate:

  • 270 pounds of dog food

  • 75 pounds of cat food

  • 100 pounds of cat litter

  • 90 cans of wet cat food

  • 36 cans of wet dog food

  • 700 insulin syringes

  • …and many more essential items for animals awaiting their forever homes.

To further support the shelter’s needs, ML&R also made a monetary donation to help fund critical supplies not available through their wish list.

Carrying the Torch of Compassion

These contributions are a reflection of the spirit A.J. brought to our firm—one of compassion, integrity, generosity, and community impact. While we will miss A.J. dearly, we’re proud to continue his legacy through our continued service to others.

Our Community Committee is continually inspired by the generosity of our team, both near and far. Whether it’s through volunteering, giving, or sharing time and resources, we remain committed to supporting the causes that matter most to our people and our communities.