My Nonprofit Reviews

The Latin American Legal Defense and Education Fund is an extraordinary organization founded in 2004 by local volunteers concerned about the treatment of immigrants in Central New Jersey. Committed volunteers have collaborated with LALDEF's executive director, Maria (Charo) without respite to serve the Latino Community, especially immigrants. Although LALDEF is small it has exceeded expectations. Among LALDEF's achievements are:

* Educating immigrants about their rights and responsibilities.
* Regularly rganizing events, including roundtables, conferences, and workshops to inform the public about the conditions surrounding immigrants and the need for comprehensive immigration reform.
* Implementing a Community ID program that enables persons without other forms of representation with a valid means of identification. LALDEF has issued more than 3,000 Community ID cards which are recognized and accepted by police departments, places of commerce, hospitals, schools, banks, etc. The program benefits juvenile parolees, homeless people, undocumented children, and recent immigrants.
* Implementing the FUTURO program, a mentoring effort meant to help young people graduate from highschool and make a successful transition into college. LALDEF recently celebrated the graduation of eight participants in this program.
* Sustaining regular dialogues with the authorities about problems facing the Latino community; referring indiviuals and families to service providers; and advocating for families and individuals in need.

This and more LALDEF does on a string budget. You will rarely meet a more effective or dedicated individuals, all working in the spirit of service and justice.

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