EB5 Investors Magazine Volume 5, Issue 2 | Page 149

PLEASE TELL US ABOUT YOUR VOLUNTEER WORK AND WHAT THAT MEANS FOR YOU? From the moment I established my firm, I knew volunteering was going to be an integral part of my practice. I am a firm believer in an attorney’s duty to ensure “equal access to justice.” Attorneys are guardians of our constitution and are uniquely positioned to identify, challenge and redress injustices and to protect civil liberties. Volunteering allows me to fulfill that mission. Most of my volunteer work involves providing representation for the most vulnerable of immigrants – victims of domestic violence, unaccompanied minors and asylum seekers. The work is challenging but at the same time very rewarding. HOW DO YOU THINK YOUR PERSONAL BACKGROUND AS AN IMMIGRANT FROM GUATEMALA BENEFITS YOUR JOB AS AN IMMIGRATION LAWYER? Having been through the immigration process myself, I am able to connect with my clients on a personal level. It provides them with assurance that the person handling their case is not only knowledgeable in the law and capable of advancing their case, but also understanding of the anxiety and worries they experience. Whether I am representing an asylum seeker or a small business seeking to bring new talent to their company to increase their competitiveness, my immigrant story can provide a sense of comfort in the process. WHAT ROLE DOES IMMIGRATION HAVE FOR THIS COUNTRY? This nation was founded by immigrants and continues to be the beacon of hope and the torch of entrepreneurism for the world. Immigrants believe in the dream that became America and want to be part of it. Immigration is what continues to propel our nation to the forefront of research and innovation. We must continue to inform and inspire with the stories that show that immigrants make America great! EB5INVESTORS.COM 148