Knobbe Martens had the opportunity recently to advise pro bono client The Trail Youth on key trademark matters prior to its high-profile appearance on national reality series Returning the Favor. The program showcases and supports remarkable people making a difference in their communities across the United States, and is hosted by Mike Rowe, best-known for starring in the Discovery Channel’s reality show Dirty Jobs.
The Trail Youth, a non-profit based in Snoqualmie, Washington just outside Seattle, builds bridges between teenagers and the many resources available that can help them thrive. It currently provides personal and academic mentoring, connections with drug and alcohol rehab centers, counseling, social services, basic necessities, and other support including its newest offering: the Coffee Home™ Cafè, a welcoming gathering space and coffee shop intended to help connect young people with the local community and vice versa.
Knobbe Martens attorneys Maria Anderson, Mauricio Uribe and Vicki Nee advised the organization on trademark matters prior to the launch of the coffee shop. The launch event was featured on Returning the Favor, which arranged for a fast and expert renovation of the space the organization had previously acquired as a surprise to Executive Director and Co-Founder Kristin Zuray. The Knobbe Martens team was vital to ensuring The Trail Youth’s marks would be protected as it deepens its roots and expands into new territory, including selling branded coffee and other products. A bonus for the attorneys was the chance to attend the taping of the show to get a first-hand look at their client’s role and impact in the local community.
“It was important for The Trail Youth to have key trademarks secured, especially prior to the high-visibility opportunity Returning the Favor offered, and we were thrilled to support the organization and its important mission through our work,” said Anderson, a partner in the Seattle office of Knobbe Martens with extensive experience in developing patent and trademark portfolios and assets.
You can watch the episode, which aired in late June, here, and learn more about The Trail Youth here.