“I lived in Colorado until I was 12– it wasn’t diverse at all. Both of my parents immigrated from Korea and struggled with English. We were treated differently because of that. I often felt like an outsider.

I hated the unfairness, but I didn’t know what to do about it. Then, I had a breakthrough: I could fight this through the law. Consequently, I worked hard, got into college, and majored in Legal Studies.

In 2017 my friend invited me to go to Open Door Legal’s annual gala. I knew nothing about Bayview and little about legal aid, so I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I went anyway. I fell in love with the mission of the organization.

My passion for Open Door Legal grew and grew. After the gala, Ivy, a former staffer, invited me to take a tour with ODL around Bayview Hunters Point. While we walked, she pointed out different homes our former clients lived in. I could visualize the impact. In that moment, I knew I had to get involved.

Soon after, I began to volunteer as the People and Marketing Coordinator. In my position, I get to interview volunteers, staff, and clients to find out what Open Door Legal means to them.

Open Door Legal has taught me the power of passion. Passionate people can catalyze change and transform communities. I see that fire within everyone who works here. It is not enough to recognize injustice– to make a difference, you must be dedicated to fighting it.”

Photography © Maya Galicia-Canto