Minnesota NELA is an affiliate of NELA, the National Employment Lawyers Association. NELA was founded in 1985 to provide assistance and support to lawyers who protect the rights of employees against the greater resources of employers and the defense bar. It is the country's only professional organization that is comprised exclusively of lawyers who represent individual employees in cases involving employment discrimination, wrongful termination, employee benefits, and other employment-related matters. NELA has a membership of more than 3,000 lawyers in 50 states and the District of Columbia, as well as 50 state and local affiliates around the country.

Minnesota NELA was founded in the late '80s. It advances and encourages the professional development of its members through networking, sharing information and work product, publications, technical support, and educational programs.

The Karla Wahl Dedicated Advocacy Award was established by Minnesota NELA in 2000 to honor the memory of Karla Wahl, a dedicated and loyal advocate of civil rights who worked tirelessly to protect and advance the rights of employees in this state.

Karla was a true friend to NELA and its members and she is greatly missed by those who knew her and worked with her. The Karla Wahl Dedicated Advocacy Award recognizes those who continue her tradition of promoting employee rights.