GTECH’s Robert Arena was recognized for his community service

The award recognizes lawyers who devote time and effort volunteering for Rhode Island non-profit organizations. The award was named in memory of Rhode Island Attorney Dorothy Lohmann who dedicated her career helping those who were less fortunate. The Rhode Island Bar Association annually presents this award to lawyers whose efforts most closely reflect those of Attorney Lohmann. Arena is one of four Rhode Island lawyers to receive the honor.

"Bob Arena has been instrumental in working to build decent and affordable housing with many low-income families who otherwise would still live in substandard and expensive rental units," said Habitat Providence Executive Director Herman deKoe. In addition to his hands-on work building homes, Bob has ensured that all Habitat's legal issues are covered, its policies are consistent, and the organization is on a sound legal footing. I cannot think of another attorney who has had such a lasting, positive impact on a non-profit organization."

Habitat Providence is a non-profit Christian organization dedicated to eliminating poverty housing in the Greater Providence area and to making decent shelter a matter of conscience and action. The organization hopes to accomplish this mission by raising awareness of the need for adequate and affordable housing. Habitat constructs simple, decent, affordable, ownership houses in partnership with people in need, volunteers, businesses, churches, community and charitable organizations, and government agencies.

"One of the things I love most about Habitat is that with building, there is tangible progress," said Arena, Gtech Assistant General Counsel of Gaming and Finance. "Volunteers arrive early on a Saturday morning, work on the projects scheduled for the day, whether it is the framing of walls, the installation of the roof trusses or some other project, and see the progress made at the end of the day. As a lawyer, I work with my head, but Habitat allows me to work with my hands. It is exceptionally rewarding."

Arena has been an attorney at Gtech for 10 years. He is responsible for managing legal matters for Lottomatica Group's Gaming Division and provides legal support to the Group's Treasury Department.