Erica worked at LACLJ for two years through the Jesuit Volunteer Corps (JVC) before attending law school. She returns this fall as a 2014-2016 Equal Justice Works Fellow, sponsored by Greenberg Traurig LLP. Her project will expand our existing Teen/LA program.
What is the focus of your project?
My project focuses on providing family law services and education to pregnant and parenting foster youth in Los Angeles County. The goal is to prevent an intergenerational cycle of foster care by helping foster youth with children of their own gain the stability and resources needed to thrive as a family.
Why are you interested in pursuing this work?
I already knew I enjoyed working with teens, but I could see how often they felt invalidated or confused by the legal system. I wanted to help develop a project that would be supportive and empowering to young parents, building their confidence in themselves as well as in the potential for positive interactions with the legal system.
How does it feel to be back at LACLJ?
It is exciting to be back at LACLJ and serving in a different capacity. Having seen the organization change and grow over the past few years, it was appealing to return to a community that I care about while having new opportunities and projects to explore within that setting.
Share a fun fact about yourself!
I’m training for my second half marathon and hope to run a full marathon within the next year!
