On July 20, HBAS and Asian Americans Advancing Justice (AAAJ) hosted their first Citizenship Workshop at our Gothard Campus. We were able to assist over 35 families with their applications...at no cost. What a great opportunity to connect with students and give back to the community!
Supervising Attorney Andrew Ji described this workshop as "a culmination of a natural partnership." During the school year, AAAJ visits our ESL and Citizenship classes, offering "competent legal counsel and services pertaining to students seeking to naturalize to be U.S. citizens." The workshop was "a true team effort," Mr. Ji reflected, "with both our staffs working together seamlessly from the meticulous planning stages to a smoothly-run legal clinic."
AAAJ brought 6 attorneys and 21 volunteers to serve a full docket of appointments from 9:00am-4:30pm. HBAS counselor Ashley Nguyen and ESL teachers were also on hand to promote upcoming ESL classes. Ms. Nguyen felt privileged to work an event where "everyone demonstrated kindness and compassion while helping clients during these sensitive times."
Both HBAS and AAAJ-OC received positive feedback from attendees, and we plan to host another clinic next year. Mr. Ji expressed that "AAAJ remains grateful to have found such a like-minded partner as HBAS and looks forward with excitement towards future collaborations!" The feeling is mutual. Thanks again to AAAJ-OC for your continued partnership in serving our students.