A Thanksgiving Message: Gratitude for the Work That Truly Matters

A message of gratitude for the people and purpose behind our mission.

I have always been a save-the-world kind of guy. From my days as a Boy Scout, my participation in Methodist Youth Fellowship, and my college weekends knocking on doors for George McGovern, I’ve always had a deep sense of service.

For most of my life, I assumed meaningful service could only happen in the nonprofit or public sectors. I grew up believing corporations existed to make a profit, while nonprofits and government existed to help. I built nearly fifty years of work around that belief. I just couldn’t imagine that businesses focused on profit could also make the world better for anyone beyond themselves.

But as I got older — and hopefully wiser — I realized that wasn’t the whole story. Many friends, neighbors, and family members worked in the private sector and were some of the most good-hearted and service-minded people I knew. Good people, I learned, are everywhere.

One of those people was a family friend and attorney, Chad Van Horn. I knew the values he was raised with, and I saw how those values shaped his approach to law — not as a business built on transactions, but as a mission built on restoring hope and stability for people facing some of the toughest moments of their lives.

When Chad expanded his bankruptcy practice to Pittsburgh, I had the opportunity to join his team. Within days, it was clear to me: a mission-driven business can have just as much heart, purpose, and impact as any service-oriented organization. At Van Horn Law Group, every case is an opportunity to help someone rebuild. Every conversation is a chance to offer dignity and understanding. And every client is a reminder that fresh starts aren’t just legal outcomes — they’re life outcomes.

This Thanksgiving, I’m grateful to be part of a team that puts people first. A team that proves every day that the private sector can be a powerful force for good when compassion leads the work.

To our clients, partners, nonprofits, and community organizations — in Pittsburgh, South Florida, and everywhere service is needed — thank you. We’re honored to walk alongside you, and we’re grateful for the trust you place in us.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Marty Marks
Business Development Associate
Van Horn Law Group, Pittsburgh