Troutman Pepper Locke’s Pro Bono IP Work Fuels Global Impact With New Clinic Dedication in Honduras

Clinic Named After Troutman Pepper Locke Partner Ben Wagner Celebrates Visionary Leadership in Utilizing Intellectual Property to Drive Global Humanitarian Efforts

SAN DIEGO – Troutman Pepper Locke has played a pivotal role in advancing global humanitarian efforts through the firm’s strategic intellectual property pro bono support for FERMBLOC foam blocks, used by a host of nonprofits, including firm client Lazarian World Homes (LWH) and International Hope Builders (IHP), two nonprofit organizations that provide critical infrastructure in developing regions. 

The legal support provided by Troutman Pepper Locke facilitated Lazarian World Homes’ acquisition of multiple patents for groundbreaking FERMBLOC foam blocks. These blocks are instrumental in the rapid construction of vital buildings such as medical clinics, schools, and community centers. LWH has used foam block construction to build more than 100 medical clinics, schools, churches, and orphanages. LWH has built more than 300 structures in Honduras, including schools, medical clinics, and homes. The licensing fees generated from the FERMBLOC foam patents will be leveraged to fund additional projects, thereby extending the reach and impact on communities worldwide.

In a remarkable gesture of appreciation, IHP dedicated a newly constructed medical clinic in Honduras in honor of Troutman Pepper Locke attorney Ben Wagner. Built using the patented FERMBLOC technology, the Ben Wagner and Family clinic is set to deliver crucial health care services to hundreds in the local community, demonstrating the profound influence that pro bono legal assistance can have in fostering sustainable development and improving lives.

“I am deeply honored by this dedication,” expressed Wagner, partner in Troutman Pepper Locke’s Intellectual Property Practice Group. “Witnessing the positive impact these organizations have made is truly inspiring, and it’s a privilege to be of service. Moments like this underscore the significant role that strategic legal support plays in humanitarian efforts, showcasing the transformative power of intellectual property in driving positive change.”

Troutman Pepper Locke’s legal team consisted of Ben Wagner, John Morrissett, Lauren Alvarez, and Troutman Pepper Locke alumni Ginger Turner and Chris Franich.

Each year, Troutman Pepper Locke attorneys dedicate thousands of pro bono hours in support of nonprofits, military veterans, children, the wrongfully convicted, civil rights and social justice initiatives, and so many other causes. Learn more at troutman.com/pro-bono.

Troutman Pepper Locke

Troutman Pepper Locke helps clients solve complex legal challenges and achieve their business goals in an ever-changing global economy. With more than 1,600 attorneys in 30+ offices, the firm serves clients in all major industry sectors, with particular depth in energy, financial services, health care and life sciences, insurance and reinsurance, private equity, and real estate. Learn more at troutman.com.