Volunteer Opportunities
Become a volunteer! We are always in need of translators, data entry volunteers, and more. Currently many of our volunteer opportunities are done remotely. Fill out the form below to get started!
Data Entry / Logistical Support / Admin Volunteers
We are always in need of help maintaining all the data it takes to run a law office. Volunteers for this role are attentive to detail, type accurately, are comfortable using a computer, and can learn how to use software programs quickly. Ideal volunteers will also have experience with data entry/analysis and/or filing. This role is available on weekdays from 9 am to 5 pm, for shifts of a minimum of 2 hours. This role is currently limited and in flux due to COVID and remote work restrictions.
Translation Volunteers
This role is performed remotely. We do not require translation volunteers to be certified. A brief online training is required to ensure that translations are standardized. Translation volunteers may work more generally on internal documents when the need arises from our attorneys or staff or on legal documents for cases.
Certified Interpreters
Certified interpreters provide pro bono language access at the above events/projects, or on an on-call basis when caseworkers need a particular language. We are currently only accepting volunteers who have some form of interpretation certification.
Fundraising / Development Volunteers
Fundraising volunteers will help support and get the word out about NMILC in their communities by finding outlets for NMILC to engage with the community virtually. One significant way fundraising volunteers can get involved is by hosting a "house event" or a "birthday fundraiser" with your own networks, with the support of NMILC staff! Eventually, fundraising volunteers may assist at NMILC internally planned fundraisers or events. We also accept experienced volunteers interested in doing grant research and copy editing.
Detention Programs Volunteers
Our programs at the Cibola/Torrance Detention Centers take place approximately once each month. We provide pro se assistance, consultations, screenings, and legal presentations to folks in detention. Non-attorney volunteers support this program by giving presentations, helping applicants fill out forms, and providing logistical support. This is a full-day commitment, usually on a weekday. Volunteers must also be fluent in Spanish or a priority language.
Asylum Workshop Volunteers
Pro Bono attorneys and non-attorney volunteers work with pro se asylum applicants to complete their paperwork for their asylum cases. Roles at the asylum workshop include doing client intakes (for volunteers with previous experience/training), helping manage the flow of the workshop, assisting with childcare for clients, doing on-site translations. These workshops occur approximately once per month in-person. All volunteers will be trained on I-589 forms prep and Asylum 101 prior to volunteering. We require volunteers for the asylum workshop to be fluent in Spanish and willing to be flexible with your role.
Workshop Volunteers
Our pro se model workshops have successfully shifted from our weekly and monthly in-person workshops to remote service in the pandemic, so we can continue to provide assistance to pro se applicants (that is, applicants submitting applications on their own behalf, rather than having an attorney represent them). NMILC’s pro se workshops involve supporting folks applying for citizenship, renewing their residency card (green card), renewing their DACA status, and preparing background checks for their applications. This role is also in flux and happening in both the remote and in-person settings depending on the severity of COVID.
Right now, we can only facilitate volunteers who are fluent/proficient in Spanish, fully vaccinated (if volunteering in person) or have the ability to work remotely, and are adept at learning new computer programs.
Jesuit Volunteer Corps & NMILC
Since 2018, we have hosted year-long volunteer positions through the Jesuit Volunteer Corps. From their website: Jesuit Volunteers address the world’s most difficult challenges within their roles and engage in an ongoing personal inquiry process at retreats and in their intentional community. These experiences permanently transform volunteers and who they go on to become. Volunteers give us an intense year or two at the front lines of social justice, and we give them a sense of purpose to guide every year that follows. If you are interested, please apply through their website.
Public Allies & NMILC
Public Allies is a national movement committed to advancing social justice and equity by engaging and activating the leadership capacities of our young people. Since 2018 we have hosted four Public Allies here at the New Mexico Immigrant Law Center. These volunteers provide valuable programmatic support while gaining experience working in a non profit. If you are interested, please apply through their website.
Turn Your Birthday Into A Fundraising Opportunity!
Use your birthday, anniversary, or other milestone to make an impact! Consider "giving" your celebration to NMILC! We will help you set-up an online donation page specific to your event. A customized link will enable your friends and relatives to donate to NMILC. Of course, you can still throw a party! In fact, we will send you a promo kit with information about our services, NMILC stickers, and a NMILC t-shirt, to help you celebrate.
Host A Facebook Fundraiser
Use Facebook to raise awareness and drive donations for the immigrant community in New Mexico! Whether you’re a nonprofit, business or individual, your supporters can donate to your Fundraiser directly on Facebook in a few simple clicks.
Facebook charges no fees on donations made to nonprofits on Facebook.
Host A Home Event
Want to share NMILC’s mission with your friends but not sure how? We’ve created a complete Toolkit to help you host an NMILC House Event at your home! You choose the time, place, and guest list, and a member of NMILC’s staff will be in attendance to share about our mission, give updates on immigration news, and provide ways to get involved or donate. Learn more about hosting a house event by emailing our Volunteer & Development Coordinator, Delaney Swink, at dswink@nmilc.org.
Get Creative!
Are you a cyclist or runner with an upcoming race? Consider using it as a fundraising opportunity for NMILC! We will provide you with stickers and promotional items for your event. Let us help you find a way to connect your interests with NMILC!
