The Old Testament enjoins us to "treat the alien who
resides with you no differently than the natives born among
you." (Leviticus 19:34) The mission of Catholic Charities
Legal Services (CCLS) is to implement this teaching by providing
professional immigration services to South Florida's refugee
and immigrant communities and attorney representation before
the Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Immigration
Courts and the Board of Immigration Appeals. |
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Over 1000 individuals seek the services
of CCLS each month: individuals seeking to reunite with their
families; political and religious refugees seeking safety and
security; essential religious workers seeking to minister to U.S.
religious communities; battered spouses and their children. These
individuals confront a complex immigration law and a confusing
bureaucracy. Many have unhealed wounds from a painful past. Many
encounter unexpected bigotry and barriers as they adjust to a
new culture and a new way of life. They face an uncertain future.
Without CCLS's assistance, too many deserving
immigrants and refugees would lose the opportunity to avail themselves
of the laws enacted for their protection. Others would fall prey
to schemes of unscrupulous and unlicensed immigration hucksters
capitalizing on the naiveté, poverty, and desperation of
the newcomer. However, with our help, many deserving immigrants
and refugees persevere and realize their dreams for a bright and
secure future in the United States.
Just as our clients come from all creeds,
a variety of countries, and many walks of life, so too does our
multi-cultural staff. Thirty-five dedicated individuals, including
10 attorneys, offer professional immigration services and legal
representation at three locations. Through a babel of languages,
the din of clashing cultures, and the joyous chaos of an overwhelming
caseload, CCLS attempts to fulfill the precept of treating the
"alien who resides you" as our neighbor.
The successful accomplishment of our mission
transforms individuals from "illegal aliens" to productive,
participating members of our community. In turn, their contributions
strengthen and diversify our nation.
Randolph P. McGrorty
Chief Executive Officer
