Karina Espinoza joined Justice for all Immigrants (JFAI) in 2017 while still in college. She was drawn to the organization, inspired by her family’s migration stories, and driven to make a meaningful impact. At JFAI, she found the ideal environment to help others navigate the complexities of immigration.
The joy she witnesses when clients receive approval for their legal status fuels her daily dedication. "Seeing their happiness and relief makes everything worth it," she says.
As an Administrative Assistant, Karina plays a significant role in JFAI's daily operations, often serving as the first point of contact for clients. She manages tasks like scheduling appointments, processing mail, and overseeing donation process, all while ensuring clients feel welcomed and supported. Despite the challenges of working in immigration services—such as language barriers and delivering difficult news—Karina finds the rewards far outweigh the hardships. The joy she witnesses when clients receive approval for their legal status fuels her daily dedication. "Seeing their happiness and relief makes everything worth it," she says. Over time, Karina has also developed remarkable patience and empathy, expertly balancing the demands of her work with its emotional weight while remaining committed to supporting both clients and colleagues.
Karina has also seen JFAI grow from a small team of three to a thriving organization, and she deeply values the strong, supportive environment that has emerged. "We make sure everyone, whether local or remote, feels like part of the family," she shares.
Additionally, Karina recognizes the critical role of donor contributions in JFAI’s success. "Donations allow us to serve clients who might otherwise be unable to afford legal assistance," she explains. The generosity of donors enables JFAI to continue offering vital services to low-income families.
Looking at her time at JFAI, Karina feels proud of the skills she has gained and the impact she has made. She hopes to see JFAI continue to grow and support even more communities.