2011 AmeriCorps Legal Fellow, Elly Kugler

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This project is inspired by people's resilience. I have known many people who were struggling with mental illness. When people are in the midst of struggling with trauma and mental illness, interactions with the legal system can be overwhelmingly difficult. At such moments, it can make a huge difference to know that you have other people who are on your team, supporting you. I am proud to be part of my clients’ support network, and to be able to alleviate my clients of some of the stress that dealing with legal systems can cause. I also know that my project’s work has long-term impact. Every time we win someone the benefits to which they are entitled, that is one more person who will now be able to focus on other important priorities such as getting permanent housing, accessing healthcare, and building a healthy and stable life.