Community Veteran Justice Project
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Meet The Team
Jodi Galvin
Executive Director
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Jodi Galvin has spent her career in public service. She is a seasoned attorney with over 30 years of experience working within the criminal justice system. Jodi served as a Public Defender Investigator for eleven years in both the Mental Health and Criminal sections, and also as a Los Angeles City Attorney Prosecutor for twenty-one years. Coming from a military-connected family, Jodi has always been a valuable advocate for veteran affairs. Jodi is the Founder and Executive Director of the Community Veteran Justice Project; chairs the Legal & Re-Entry Committee for the LA Veteran Collaborative, has been an active member of the LACBA Armed Forces Committee; and has served on national, statewide and local veteran committees and projects.
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Peter Fendel
Volunteer Attorney
Peter is a Marine Corps veteran and an attorney licensed in California (awaiting bar results in Colorado). Peter graduated from Pepperdine Law School cum laude where he served as the president of the Veterans Legal Society and sat on the Veterans Recruitment Committee. He also attended the University of Colorado Boulder where he received a B.A. in Political Science. Peter has extensive experience working with veterans - serving as the veterans and military liaison in a Congressional office, volunteering with his fellow veterans conducting disaster response with Team Rubicon, and through his own journey as a service-connected V.A. patient. Peter has experience in civil litigation and water law, and is currently transitioning to a career in public service law. Peter enjoys golfing, hiking, and exercising where he lives in Colorado with his rottweiler, Bear.
Monica Mooring
Social Worker Field Supervisor
Dr. Monica Mooring is a social work professional with over 20+ years of direct practice at the macro-level, mezzo-level, and micro-level. She is passionate about helping those most vulnerable realize and achieve their highest potential as they define achievement.
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Jimmy Askew
Project Coordinator
Jimmy Askew is an attorney who is licensed in NY and in CA. A graduate of Cardozo School of Law in NYC, he has worked in entertainment and IP law as well as doing litigation support. He currently serves as a Neighborhood Council member in North Hollywood and as a member of Metro's Citizens Advisory Council. Jimmy's father spent 21 years on active duty in the Army Corps of Engineers, including a year in Vietnam, and he spent the first ten years of life as an army brat before settling down in Fairfax County, VA. He's excited to have this opportunity to give back to the veterans who have given so much.
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Billy enlisted in 1994 in the National Guard and commissioned in 2000 as an artillery officer. He is currently serving as a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserve. He is most recently home from a 2019 deployment to the Middle East. In 2009 Billy graduated from Widener University School of Law in Harrisburg, PA. He then began practicing in the state of Wyoming. Billy currently splits his time between Wyoming and California. He is currently attending classes at Pepperdine University, pursuing an LL.M. When in Wyoming, you can catch Billy on “stage” as a gunfighter outside the historic Irma Hotel. Billy is happily married to his wife Sara with 4 wonderful children.
William "Billy" Struemke
Program Developer Past
Jon Eady
CVJ Worker Past
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Jonathan Eady is a California Army National Guard veteran and Mechanical Engineering student at California State University, Northridge. Jon has worked to provide representation and resources to vulnerable student populations, including non-traditional and low-income students, as well as students with learning differences. While completing his undergraduate coursework, Jon also advocates for mental health destigmatization and exploring the intersection of engineering, public policy, and mental health.
Morgan Cohn
Paralegal Past
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Morgan Cohn has been working in substance use treatment since 2015, starting as a Resident Advisor anderson working her way up to Operations Manager. She is passionate about helping others who suffer from alcohol and drug addiction and feels genuine joy watching the clients regain their health and well-being . Morgan herself has been in recovery for almost four years. She is pursuing a Paralegal degree at West LA College and after graduating plans to work for a criminal law firm that focuses on drug offenses. CVJP’s mission to help veterans find solutions in treatment rather than incarceration aligns with her current work and future career . In her free time, Morgan’s enjoys spending time with her wild toddler, hiking, and cuddling with fluffy animals.
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Danielle McNeil is originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She served honorably in the United States Marine Corp for eight years. She finished a tour of service in California and decided to stay and attend UCLA, where she obtained a degree in Anthropology and a double minor in International Studies and Geography. She has a beautiful thirteen year old daughter who's been diagnosed with Autism. Danielle is a strong advocate for the homeless because she's been there herself. She'd like to be a part of any program that will help our veteran counterparts get back on track. She feels she can be of assistance to veterans who are trying to regain their independence and become productive active participants in society.
Danielle McNeil
CVJ Worker Past
Casio Shyn
Volunteer Attorney Past
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Casio Shyn is an attorney. Inspired by Vietnam-era Recon Marines he enlisted following 9-11, he prepared and trained for a lateral move into long-range reconnaissance and served in Operation Enduring Freedom. Casio has been in the Intellectual Property licensing business in China since 2007, working with the world's second largest laminate flooring company; and was a Founding Member of Wounded Eagle UAS, a non-profit that trains veterans interested in a career in the UAS industry. In his free time, Casio enjoys volunteering to support veterans and organizations; including regularly providing services for the Community Veteran Justice Project and its clients.
Marty Kreman
Volunteer Attorney Past
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Marty Kreman was raised in a military family, so veterans’ issues are very personal to him. Helping veterans was the impetus behind his choice to quit an 18 year career coaching and teaching to attend law school. While earning his JD at Pepperdine Law School, Marty worked for three years as a Certified Law Clerk in the Ventura County Public Defender’s office. There, he appeared on over 500 matters, chiefly in the Veterans Treatment Court. The many forms, motions, and training tools he created on behalf of veterans have been disseminated as educational materials and templates to private counsel throughout the state of California.
Gayle Tamler
Volunteer Attorney Past
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Gayle Tamler is a volunteer attorney for the Community Veteran Justice Project. Gayle received a BA from UCLA in Interpersonal Communications, and a Law Degree from Loyola Law School in Los Angeles. Gayle started her legal career as a Los Angeles Deputy District Attorney at Compton Superior Court and then downtown as a special prosecutor for the Child Abuse Unit. Gayle now devotes her efforts to helping families survive divorce with optimal outcomes for the parents and their children as a collaborative family law attorney. In her free time, Gayle volunteers her mediation skills in the Unlawful Detainer Court in Santa Monica and utilizes her legal skills to help veteran clients of the Community Veteran Justice Project get access to any services they need and deserve.
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Hector Hsu
Volunteer Attorney Past
Hector is a USC grad who studied History and Music during his undergraduate term. He graduated from law school at Western State College of Law and recently passed the bar. Hector desires to use both his musical and legal skills to help the disadvantaged. He aspires to become an international corporate attorney while continuing to pursue his passion for music. In his free time Hector plays the flute and guitar and recently started a band called Angels & Avengers, which he hopes will provide music therapy to people who suffer from debilitating sickness, loneliness and depression.
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Bryan Fazio is a Navy veteran and California attorney specializing in disability law and criminal defense. Bryan received a degree in political science from Concordia Irvine prior to joining the military, and was inspired to pursue law due to his own struggles with transitioning out of the military after battling cancer. For the past 4 years Bryan has assisted hundreds of low income veterans and their families get access to their earned veteran benefits. Bryan volunteers for projects that help veterans, and those facing criminal charges, including Veterans Legal Institute and the CVJP.
Bryan Fazio
Volunteer Attorney Past
Scott Cramer
Volunteer Attorney Past
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Scott sperved almost 42 years in the Department of Navy with 26 years as an active duty Marine Corps officer (retired as a Lieutenant Colonel) and 16 years as a federal employee (GS15). He attended law school while on active duty with a wife and three children helping. As an appellate attorney, Scott argued three prisoner civil cases in front of the 9th Circuit, handled immigration related appeals with the 9th Circuit and the Board of Immigration Appeals, and conducted numerous criminal indigent appeals at the state district and superior court levels.
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Karl Risinger
CVJ Worker Past
Karl Risinger served in the United States Army from 1994-2005 as a Weapons Trainer and Military Police. Never deployed, but took a Government contracting job in Iraq in 2010 because he had to see what his brothers and sisters had been through. Karl moved to Los Angeles in July of 2000 and has been active in the Veteran Community as well as the community around him. He has worked in the entertainment industry and been an event/project manager for several years. He enjoys watching football, playing with his children and being a loving husband.
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Louie Castillo
CVJ Worker Past
Louie is an Air Force Technical Sergeant on active duty and reserves and has been deployed three times; two in support of medical evacuations of the hurt, sick, and wounded from both war zones and humanitarian efforts. One of his deployments has been in support of drug interdiction in the Caribbean. With over 15 years of dedicated service, Louie has worked on and with assets (planes, equipment, etc.…) worth millions of dollars. Presently, he is a member of the 452d Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron at March AFB C.A.
Louie earned his Bachelor of Science in Management from Pepperdine University. He is a Los Angeles native and is currently working towards continuing his education. Louie likes reading books, creating art, and learning new things.
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Dom Delfosse
CVJ Worker Past
Dom is a student at UC Riverside. His recent experience organizing with labor unions and institutions such as the UFCW 1167, the UC Berkeley Labor Center, and the SEIU 1021 has shifted his career aspirations towards ultimately becoming an active fighter in the national social justice movement. He hopes to study law to lobby for policy that ensures appropriate accommodations for historically marginalized and disadvantaged populations in California. Dom speaks English and Spanish fluently and has many interests all centering around societal infrastructure. His free time is spent playing the violin, piano, guitar, bass and making beats on his laptop.
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Jameel Matin,
CVJ Worker Past
Jameel is an Engineer who cares about authoring software that is easy to reason about and building applications with impact. Previously he led cross-functional teams in uncertain environments, analyzed data for decision making, and advocated for continuous improvement in the U.S. Marines. He brings grit, passion, and accountability to projects that solve real problems with software.
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Bert Roberson
CVJ Worker Past
Bertrand (Bert) L. Roberson is a third generation Los Angeles native, who has successfully served in the United States Army and National Guard. He obtained his Bachelors and Masters degrees in Business Administration and has over 22 years of accounting and finance experience, most of which has been at the junior and senior management level. He has 3 adult children and 4 grandchildren. Bert is a product of immediate family serving in the Army and Navy (WW1 and Vietnam veterans), is a strong advocate for veterans, and has been a major supporter of disabled veterans.
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Ilya Kurbanov
CVJ Worker
Ilya served in the United States Army for 6 years. During that time, he deployed 5 times in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom with 2nd Ranger Battalion, 75th Regiment. Currently, Ilya is studying Business at Pasadena City College and plans on completing his Business Degree at the University of Southern California. He is a member of the Veterans Club at Pasadena City College and the PCC advocate and volunteer for the CJVP. He is passionate about assisting Veteran students and becoming a stellar member of the PCC Community.
Pablo Pak
Law ClerK Past
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Pablo Pak is an Army veteran and native of Los Angeles dedicated to advocating for veterans and the armed services community. He founded the Farmers Insurance Veteran and Military diversity group, a program that has been recognized in publications such as Recruit Military and G.I. JOBS. Mr. Pak has also worked as a Student Veteran Work-study participant at El Camino Community College Veterans office and Arizona State University Veterans assistance office. Pablo holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Arizona State University, a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from Willamette Law, and is attending USC Gould School of Law for a Master of Laws (LLM) degree. After passing the California bar exam, Mr. Pak hopes to use his legal training to continue his advocacy work and give back to his fellow veterans.
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Lorez Barber
CVJ Worker Past
Lorez is an LA native born in Inglewood CA who attended Syracuse University in Upstate New York for a Bachelor's in Social Work (BSW) and Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. Currently, Lorez attends USC at the Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work. Lorez' concentration is social change and innovation. Lorez enjoys spending spare time baking fine pastries, watching documentaries, or rollerskating.
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Karen Straus
CVJ Worker Past
Karen Strauss is an award-winning media industry professional pursuing a Master of Social Work degree from USC. Karen has helped numerous large media companies innovate and expand their creative offerings while running a creative small business of her own. She plans to utilize her media career to fulfill her passion to help effect policy change for global human rights and animal rights issues. Karen is highly dedicated, compassionate, resourceful, and motivated. She lives between Los Angeles and New York where she works, completes her studies, and follows her passion of always evolving herself to gain new experiences and knowledge that can help her improve the sociopolitical climate of the world.
Sarah Martinez
CVJ Worker Past
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Sarah currently attends the University of Southern California and is working on her undergraduate studies as a Political Science major. She comes from a military family, therefore she has had exposure to military culture from an early age. During her teen years, she served in the California National Guard Teen Council. She is now a fourth year pre-law student. Sarah is passionate about advocacy in the military community and is happy to be a part of the CVJP team.
Jimmy Guevara
CVJ Worker Past
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Jimmy served in the Marines as an 0622 (communications) for 4.5 years in Okinawa and Camp Lejeune, and was deployed to Iraq in 2005. Upon returning home in 2006 to L.A., he felt out of place and never really felt included in the workforce. He then attended L.A. City College and transferred to Cal State Northridge, where he earned his double bachelor's in Psychology and Central American Studies. He moved on to earn his Masters of Social Work from the University of Southern California (USC). "I decided that helping my fellow veteran family is going to be my new mission." and is now a part of the CVJP Team.
Aatif Muhammad
CVJ Worker Past
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Disabled US Navy Veteran with a BA in Human Services from California State Dominguez Hills and an graduate MSW at USC (2020).
Jack Hensley
Law Clerk Past
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Jack D. Hensley graduated with honors from the University of Miami, Florida, and remains a loyal Hurricanes football fan. Jack is currently in his last year at Loyola Law School and is excited to begin practicing law as a civil litigator. While in law school, Jack has worked at two large law firms, externed for the United States District Court, and clerked at a major television studio. Upon graduation and passing the bar, he will be returning to the firm where he worked as a summer associate, Richards Watson Gershon. But before Jack begins practicing, he hopes to be able to utilize his experience here at CVJP in order to serve those who have served our country.
Hedyeh Rezaei
CVJ Worker Past
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Hedyeh is starting her Masters in Social Work at CSUN this year. There, she has taken on roles such as CSUN's Pride Center Supervisor which allowed her to work closely with diverse communities. She is passionate about advocating, empowering, and creating programs that allow individuals to equitably have access to resources and opportunities that can change their lives. She enjoys taking her ESA dog on adventures and eating as much Persian food as she can! SHe's very excited to be a part of the CVJP team and helping serve our veterans.
Brandon Childers
CVJ Worker Past
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Brandon Childers is a Marine Corps veteran and fourth-year psychology student at California State University, Los Angeles. Brandon has worked with the veteran population since he separated from active service in 2015 and provides intake services for the Community Veteran Justice Project. His current research focus is in mental-health destigmatization, and veteran work-force integration. In his off-time Brandon enjoys playing guitar, and spending time with his high school sweetheart and wife, Lauren.
Bill Byers
CVJ Worker Past
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Bill Byers is a Vietnam era Army veteran and attorney. Bill received a BA from Ohio State University and a Law Degree from Southwestern University. Bill spent over 17 years of his legal career owning a family law practice in San Fernando, then several more years as the Senior Staff Council for the State of California’s Department of Corrections. Since retiring, Bill has dedicated much of his time volunteering for the Community Veteran Justice Project and supporting his fellow veterans.
Kelly Galvin
I.T. Consultant Past
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Captain Kelly Galvin, USA (Ret) retired from the military in 1996, but was recalled back to active duty in 2009. He deployed to Iraq and served in the MultiNational Corps-Iraq HQ.
He resides in Arizona with his wife, Sandy where he volunteers in the community doing websites and information management.
His novel, PowerPoint Ranger: My Iraq War Logs, is scheduled for publication on June 15, 2020 by Koehler Books.
Michelle Sideris
Director of Development Past
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Michelle Jacqueline Sideris is the Director of Development for the Community Veteran Justice Project. A New England native, Michelle received her BA in Communications from Roger Williams University in Rhode Island, and her JD from Massachusetts School of Law. Michelle started her career in Boston and practiced civil litigation for five years. Upon moving to Los Angeles she became the Director of Business Development at a Fortune 500 company where she excelled at building relationships with law firms and in-house legal departments across Southern California. Michelle now devotes her efforts to serving the veteran community by developing a robust donor portfolio for the advancement of CVJP. In her free time, you will find her water sailing for both leisure and competitive racing out of Marina del Rey.
Adam Rund
Digital Media Past
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Adam Rund is a Marine Corps Veteran who’s lived on multiple continents, traveled to over 30 nations across the globe, and fought for Uncle Sam in one of them. Since separating from active duty, Adam moved to L.A. to pursue academics. He is now a USC Marshall Business undergraduate and a Master of Science in Entrepreneurship & Innovation graduate student. Adam owns VetUp, a government contracting company which provides medical equipment and supplies to the VA Medical Centers. He recently started AirStrike Systems, a company which designs and sells paintball weapon systems to enhance gameplay realism. Adam spends his free time volunteering and providing social media and website support for the Community Veteran Justice Project.
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Valerie Pasion
Staff Attorney Past
Valerie Pasion currently lives in Orange County with her husband and their 4 children. Her mission in life has always been to serve a purpose greater than her-self and to do her best to be a voice for our undeserved communities.
Valerie graduated from UC Irvine with a Bachelor's in Criminology, Law and Society and received her Juris Doctor Degree from The UCLA School of Law with specialty in Critical Race Studies. She has extensive experience in law, even owning her own firm, but is now living her dream as the staff attorney for CVJP. Serving the veteran community through legal advocacy and other veteran resources is a calling that Valerie has happily accepted.
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Sara Ozuna
Project Coordinator Past
Sara Ozuna is a project coordinator for Community Veteran Justice Project and has an extensive background in research and education as well as a personal passion for mental health. She completed her bachelors in sociology at the California State Polytechnic University, Pomona as well as a master’s in education with an emphasis on sociology from the California State University Los Angeles. Sara’s research experience has included the areas of education, behavioral science and social work. She is dedicated to working with veterans and other specialized groups in need of representation and better community services.
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Nicole Flynn
MSW Intern Past
Nicole is currently in her second year at California State University, Northridge, obtaining her master’s degree in social work, and has a B.A. in social welfare and social justice. Before her internship at CVJP, she completed social work internships at Seasons Hospice and OneGeneration. Nicole also worked as a counselor at Gateways Hospital, working with adults with severe mental illness. She is passionate about serving vulnerable populations, mental health treatment, advocacy work, ending mass incarceration, and social justice reform. When she isn't focused on social work, Nicole is spending time with her son and husband.
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Sean Stone
Project Coordinator
Sean is a Master of Public Policy graduate from the University of Michigan. Prior to earning his Master’s degree Sean worked for the County of L.A 5th District Supervisor and helped implement the annual “Salute to Veterans and their Families”, as well as represented the Supervisor at the monthly L.A. Veterans Collaborative. Sean has two years of legislative affairs experience while with Pete Conaty & Associates, the firm that was responsible for the legislative advocacy of over 800,000 California veterans and eight Veteran Service Organizations across the state. While interning with Pete Conaty, Sean was earning his Bachelor’s of Political Science from the University of California, Davis, which was completed in 2014. Sean is the proud son of a veteran of the United States Navy and also an L.A. native.
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Mark Rosenfeld
Volunteer Attorney Past
For over 20 years Defense Attorney Mark Rosenfeld has been helping veterans with criminal and Department of Motor Vehicle troubles. He is proud to work alongside CVJP in helping veterans through a difficult and confusing time. Attorney Rosenfeld is on the Board of Governors of the California Attorneys for Criminal Justice, a Specialist Member of the California DUI Lawyers Association, and a State Ambassador and Founding Member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association. Attorney Rosenfeld is qualified to analyze blood, administer breath tests and has completed the instructor training for the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. Working with CVJP gives Attorney Rosenfeld a chance to give back, and show his gratitude, to our veterans in their time of need. For more information go to Attorney Rosenfeld’s Video University: https://www.mrduila.com/video-university/
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Alixandra Powers
Law Clerk Past
Alix is a Captain in the US Army Reserves and has over 11 years of military service. She is familiar with the issues that affect military and Veteran communities and is working with CVJP to ensure these communities are protected. She is currently a student at Southwestern Law School and is interested in racial justice, gender equality, and Veteran's issues.
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Angelique Ajala
Law Clerk Past
Angel Ajala is a rising 2L at Southwestern Law School, and a continuing Law Clerk with CVJP. Through her work and study, she hopes to aid in and empower the individual's realization of access to justice in our court system. She has volunteered with various youth and public interest organizations, as well as being heavily involved in on-campus activities and working with off-campus coalitions and groups. She is excited, honored, and humbled to continue working as a Law Clerk.
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Ismael Guzman
Veteran Coordinator Past
Ismael is a Los Angeles native. He served in the Marine Corps from 2014-2018 as an 0451/Parachute Rigger with 2nd Radio Battalion and Marine Raider Regiment. Upon completing his term of enlistment, Ismael enrolled for school at Pasadena City College where he received his associate degree in Humanities. While at PCC, he served as President of the Veterans Club, did VA work-study at the Veterans Resource Center, and graduated from Leadership Pasadena. Ismael has also dedicated his time to volunteer as a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles since 2018. He now attends UCLA and is pursuing his bachelor's degree in Political Science.
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Steve Lund
Volunteer Attorney Past
Steve Lund
Dob: 11/16/1954
Education:
BBA: Gonzaga University 1978
JD: Western State University School of Law, 1981
31 years Deputy public defender Los Angeles Public defender’s office.
Retired 2019. Still licensed but not practicing
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Cleveland Foy
CVJ Worker
Cleveland Foy is an Honorably Discharged Naval Veteran. After transitioning out of the military, Cleveland pursued his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice at California State University Northridge, CA. Post- Graduation, Cleveland will be attending law school in Southern California and has a vision of his career path focusing on veteran advocacy. During Cleveland’s military journey, he has been challenged with PTSD, physical disabilities, and homelessness. Cleveland wants fellow Veterans to know there are programs and services to assist and looks forward to helping them access these resources.
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Megan Rodriguez
CVJP Worker Past
My name is Megan Rodriguez. I am a proud veteran caregiver of over 5 years and served in the United States Air force as a Security Forces Member during “Operation New Dawn.” A disabled veteran myself, I graduated in 2019 with a Masters in Global Affairs and Management from Thunderbird, School of Global Management, ASU. Currently an entrepreneur, investor, yoga teacher and veterans advocate, dedicated to individual and collective empowerment.
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Ed Clemena
CVJP Worker Past
I am Edgar “Ed’ Clemena. I am a Peer Support Volunteer that has over 6 years of experience as a patient working with Veteran Administration’s staff including: Therapists, Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Peer Support Specialists, Medical Doctors, Mental Health Doctors, and other Veterans since June 2015. I have learned how to support my fellow Veterans after going through both Vocational and Alcohol Rehab myself. I am reaching out to others to assist them to use services offered by the Community Veteran Justice Project a Non-Profit Organization. My fellow Veterans, feel free to contact me for more information and I will reach out to assist you in any way I can. I am a dedicated Peer Support Volunteer and can get you the services you need. I am giving back to my fellow Veterans the same way other Veterans reached out to me. I hope to hear from you. When I do, I can start the process of making it happen for you.
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Queen Smith
IT Support
Queen is an Information Technology professional with 32 years of experience with the State of California. She held technical, supervisory and management positions. Work assignments included project management, contract management, feasibility studies and post implementation evaluation reports, applications support, database management, systems administration and support, networking, security, web site management, data center management, help desk and desktop support, and customer service. She is a graduate of California State University Los Angeles. She is the daughter and granddaughter of war veterans. She has a passion for helping other people go beyond the ordinary, to stretch out and become more, to do more than they ever dreamed they could do.
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Bea Navarro
Project Assistant Past
I was married to a marine and have three boys raised now. One is an active Marine and one just out of the Navy, a nuke. My husband just died in February and I’m looking for some thing I can do that would really help those who have served our country. My heart is there with you all who have served and I pray that I can be a part of helping you.
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Mario Miramontes
CVJP Worker Past
Mario Miramontes is a certified peer support specialist who has engaged in various non-profit organization through out the greater Los Angeles area. His goals and ambitions consist of providing support and services to the veteran community in the hopes of helping prevent suffering due to mental health and substance abuse issues, causing homelessness. Mr. Miramontes has overcome obstacles and barriers in relation to these matters making him an example and role model for others to follow.
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David Farrell
Executive Assistant Past
David Ferrell is an Army veteran, serving in the Judge Advocate General Corps as a Paralegal Specialist, and attended the United States Military Academy at West Point through the Soldier Admission Program. After completing his military service, David graduated Summa Cum Laude from Savannah State University with a degree in History and Political Science. David is currently attending Southwestern Law School. David has a passion for public interest work and is dedicated to using his skills to better the lives of marginalized groups, especially his fellow veterans and service members.
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Thomas Kerley
CVJP Worker Past
Mr. Kerley was commissioned as an officer in the United States Marine Corps where he served for 20 years as an FA-18 pilot with over 2,000 hours and achieved the rank of Lieutenant Colonel. He served as a senior officer including Commanding Officer of Marine Corps Installation Camp Mujuk, Executive Officer of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, Staff Secretary of 3d Marine Aircraft Wing, Director of Operations of Marine Aircraft Group 11 and 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and Director of Environmental Management of Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. Mr. Kerley also held key squadron billets including Executive Officer, Aircraft Maintenance Officer, Logistics Officer, Quality Assurance Officer, Assistant Operations Officer, and Ground Safety Officer.
Nathan B. Eprem
Law Clerk Past
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Nathan graduated from California Lutheran University in 2018 with a degree in communications and is currently enrolled as a 3rd year at Southwestern Law School. Some of Nathan’s closest friends are currently serving in the military and inspired Nathan to become more involved in veteran’s affairs. By working at CVJP, he hopes to be able to assist and support veterans through legal service and making sure they can always have someone to fight for them after they have fought for us.
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Larry Steiner
CVJP Worker Past
Larry Steiner served as an infantry soldier in the United States Army for ten years, where he developed the strategic, management, logistics, and planning skills necessary to become a solution-oriented leader. Upon completion of his military service, Larry entered the private sector where he excelled in the energy industry as a forward-thinking professional dedicated to resolving conflict and achieving the strategic goals for several large-scale organizations across the United States. During his career in the energy sector, Larry continued to serve in the local community as a volunteer for several veteran and non-veteran support organizations that help manage behavioral concerns, support addiction and recovery efforts, resolve housing insecurity issues, and improve overall mental wellbeing. Larry’s personal experiences as an Army veteran and collective experiences working with those struggling to improve their lives have contributed greatly to our community, state, and country.
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Jessica graduated from Cal State LA in 2020 with a bachelor degree in Rehabilitation Services and received The Veteran Services Program certificate. Jessica's cousin served in the military for 13 years. She has a lot of respect and interest to help veterans and their family. She is an alumnae of CSULA Delta Zeta Sorority. Maintained a 4.0 GPA while actively participating in Delta Zeta events and activities. She has volunteered at Paws/LA’s Pet Food Bank and office in high school and university. She completed her undergraduate internship at Penny Lane TAY Drop-In Center. Jessica will be applying to the MSW program in the fall. She is passionate about providing services to meet the unique needs of individuals and families with physical, emotional, and intellectual disabilities, and individuals with economic and social disadvantages. When Jessica isn’t volunteering, she loves to spend time with her Doberman, parrot, and her loved ones.
Jessica Duarte
CVJP Worker Past
Christina Boyar
Law Clerk Past
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Christina graduated from UC Davis in 2019 with a degree in cognitive science. She is currently attending UCLA Law School and hoping to pursue a career in public interest law. Christina’s father served in the Navy for 30 years and she has great appreciation and respect for our veterans. Christina is thrilled for the opportunity to volunteer as a law clerk at CVJP and is eager to assist any and all service members involved in the justice system.
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Mathew Sakhai
Law Clerk Past
Mathew graduated summa cum laude from Loyola Marymount University with a B.A. in Political Science in 2020. He is currently a rising second year law student at LMU Loyola Law School. Having multiple family members who are veterans, Mathew hopes to give back to those who served our country by working at CVJP. With a background in business, Mathew hopes to utilize his strong work ethic and unique perspective to help veterans in need.
Hamdy Masri
Law Clerk Past
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Hamdy is currently a rising 2L at the University of San Diego School of Law. He graduated from San Diego State University in 2020 with a Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice, a minor in American Political Science, and a certificate in Public Law. Hamdy intends to have a career fighting for social justice, and he is particularly passionate about mental health and homelessness. During his first year of Law School he was a student researcher working on evictions and homelessness in San Diego. He worked with many veterans and witnessed firsthand the connections between service, mental health, and homelessness. He is excited to be working for the CVJP and to help veterans get psychological help and treatment rather than unjust punishment. In his free time Hamdy is probably hiking with his two dogs, a 110lb Husky/Lab and a 5lb chihuahua.
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Kaelee Geller
Law Clerk Past
Kaelee is a third year law student at Monterey College of Law with a
Master of Arts in Criminology from California University of
Pennsylvania. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from
California State University, Chico. She has experience working in
nonprofits with veterans and foster children. Kaelee is interested in
juvenile issues in the criminal justice system. In her spare time, she
enjoys hiking with her german shepherd, Sweet Dee.
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Vanessa Hernandez
Law Clerk Past
My name is Vanessa Hernandez and I am a law student going into my third year at Trinity Law School located in Orange County. I graduated from California State University Channel Islands in 2016 where I majored in Political Science and minored in Psychology. I have recently finished an internship at the Orange County Rescue Mission where I helped the homeless with several legal issues pertaining to family law and criminal law. On my free time, I enjoy spending time with my nieces and nephews, outdoor activities and cooking. I ultimately seek a position to continue helping those in
need and one day hope to practice in public service as an attorney.
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Costa Via
Program Manager
Costa Via is a U.S. Army veteran. He received LLM from Straus Institute of Dispute Resolution, Pepperdine University School of Law in 2015 and since then he was involved in VET2VET, a non-profit educational project dedicated to assist veterans with adjustment to civilian lifestyle and providing assistance in obtaining VA and other available benefits. Through his own journey as a service-connected V.A. patient, Costa derives a strong sense of fulfillment from providing assistance to service members and their families.
In God We Trust: E pluribus Unum!
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My name is Ernesto Trevizo, I am a Marine Corps veteran. I did four years as an 0311(Infantry Rifleman). I have worked for the Dept. of Veterans Affairs under the Health Information Management department and continue to volunteer with nonprofit organizations to help veterans in finding resources that will help them during and after their transition from military to civilian life.
Ernesto Trevizo
CVJP Worker Past
Elaine Grahm
Law Clerk Past
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Elaine Graham is a graduate of the University of Santo Tomas in the Philippines with a degree in Communication. She became an international flight attendant for Qatar Airways. As a flight attendant she traveled the world, served with excellence, and always exceeded expectations. After five years, she happily ended her career as a First Class Flight Attendant. Upon moving to the United States she quickly landed a job at Citibank Santa Rosa, in which she climbed the ranks of a personal banker. She is now a student at Empire Law School in Santa Rosa. Elaine’s husband served in the Marines. She is passionate about helping past and current U.S. military members get all the services they need. Her husband inspired her to do all she can to help military members. “Our service members are leaders, humanitarians, and our fellow Americans who have done so much to defend our society. Helping them out in times of need is the least I can do to thank them.”
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I am Juan Diego Sanabria, an honored and decorated United States Marine Corps Combat Veteran. I served several tours of duty in Fallujah and Ramadi, Iraq. I graduated from Mt. San Antonio College with my Associates Degree in Mathematics and Natural Sciences. I’m enrolled at Cal State University, Los Angeles in pursuit of my Master’s degree in Rehabilitation Counseling. I’m a critical thinker and operate with a solution based mentality-applying problem solving methods that are both conventional and radical. I know that there is an answer to any problem. Teamwork is one of the keys to how I live my life; however, I am not afraid to carry more weight and pride myself in being called upon. I pay close attention to details and take great pride in every task I'm assigned. I strive to be a valuable asset to the Community Veterans Justice Project and do everything within my abilities for successful completion of my duties.
Juan Sanabria
CVJP Volunteer Past
Laurie Walker
Licensed Social Worker Past
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Laurie is a graduate of Boston College School of Social Work and has been a licensed clinical social worker for over 13 years. Much of her career had been spent serving veterans through working in the mental health and substance abuse treatment programs at the West LA and Denver VA Medical Centers. She is also a military spouse who comes from a military family, and therefore she is extremely passionate and dedicated to working with veterans once again - this time with the CVJP team!
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David Smith is a Los Angeles based attorney who lives in Van Nuys with his Wife, baby daughter and dog. He is a US Marine veteran who served from 2010-2015 and deployed to Afghanistan as a Helicopter Crew Chief. After the military, David traveled extensively, backpacking South America and Southeast Asia for nearly two years, before attending Southwestern Law School, where he graduated from in 2019. He is originally from Harrisburg Pennsylvania and attended undergraduate school in Boston at Northeastern University, where he studied criminology and corrections. In his free time he enjoys hiking, fishing, lifting weights, paragliding, and camping, which he often does in his self-built camper van.
Dave Smith
Volunteer Attorney Past
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Deniesha Jackson El is from the Moorish Science Temple of America Subordinate District Temple #43 . Her calling has been to inspire, place life into and back into individuals that may have felt that they have lost inspiration, hope, confidence, ambition, insight, drive, willingness, understanding the importance of transition and transformation to become greater personally in who they are, who they would like to become, in a more positive and profound way. She thrives in any adverse and non-adverse situation. Ms. El has a free spirit, building character in individuals with the assistance of advocating for them while they become stronger in expressing their own voice in a positive, productive, humble way without being bullied or being taken advantage of.
Deniesha Jackson
CVJP Worker Past
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Yilei graduated from East China University of Political Science and Law in 2019 with a bachelor degree, and is currently attending USC Law School , hoping to pursue a career in public interest law. She has experience working in legal-aid affairs helping people who are under-average-income, and is passionate about the new journey in CVJP assisting and supporting veterans involved in the justice system. In her spare time, she enjoys hiking and cooking.
Yilei Huang
Law Clerk Past
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Monica Christianson worked with Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis’ to bring the largest Veteran Resource Fair to the Pomona Fairplex, in 2017, 2018, 2019. She also worked with Congressional Representative Grace Napolitano’s office to bring Mental Health Awareness to the Veteran Community. She has served on Congresswoman Napolitano’s Roundtable and conducted workshops on student veterans and mental illness. Monica comes from a long line of military family members. Monica holds a BA from Mount Saint Mary’s University, an MA from Phillips Graduate Institute, a Ph.D. in Psychology and a California teaching credential. Over 20 years she has taught classes in the San Bernardino County Jail system, Anger Management, Living Skills, Cognitive Skills, Substance Abuse, Parenting Skills, English as a Second Language and a transitional course for veterans at Citrus Community College.
CMonica M. Christianson, PhD.
CVJP Worker Past
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Genesia Foster is an experienced military officer and combat veteran with over 23 years of active-duty service. She is a graduate of USC, University of Louisville, and Webster University. She is currently an Applied Clinical Psychology Doctoral Candidate. Genesia also has over 20 years of executive HR management experience. As a clinical social worker, she has worked with the Los Angeles Department of Mental Health, the Los Angeles Unified School District, and the Los Angeles Department of Probation. Genesia is a trauma-focused clinician that has experience working with both court-involved youth and the adult reentry population. Throughout her career, her commitment and passion has always centered on advocating for fair and equitable health and human services for the veteran community.
Genesia Foster
Program Manager/Social Worker Past
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Sara is currently completing her second year of law school at California Western School of Law in San Diego. With both her parents serving in the military, Sara is passionate about helping veterans and their families. Sara is excited to volunteer with CVJP because of the unique and powerfully influential work CVJP provides to the community. When Sara is not working or studying, you will probably find her cheering on her Clemson Tigers or trying a new recipe!
Sara Berry
Law Clerk Past
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Hello, my name is Petra Arredondo-Rios. I currently finishing my Bachelors at Cal State LA in the Rehabilitation Service Program and will receive my Veteran Services Program certificate. I’m a graduate from East Los Angeles College (ELAC) with an Associate of Arts in Social and Behavioral Science. For the last 29 years I have dedicated my life to the private post-secondary education, guiding people with career choices. I’ve been married to a Vietnam veteran for 18 years. I am also a mom of two sons. My youngest is serving time for gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated. While this is hurtful it has made me aware of the need of second chances. I am a proud American and look forward to helping Veterans in career choices and finding other resources they may need.
Petra Arredondo-Rios
CVJP Worker Past
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Cooper Jacobs graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 2017 with a double major in Philosophy and Spanish. Cooper is currently attending Southwestern Law School. Having volunteered in the public interest field his whole life, Cooper is eager to help our veterans receive the support and resources they deserve. Growing up, Cooper had a close relationship with his grandfather who served in the Navy for twenty-six years. As a result, he witnessed firsthand some of the obstacles veterans encounter when they finish serving our country in active duty. Through his work at CVJP he seeks to help dissolve mental health stigmas and use the law to help improve the lives of marginalized individuals.
Cooper Jacobs
Law Clerk Past
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My name is Chase Wyatt and I am currently a 2L at the University of San Francisco School of Law with a focus in Public Interest. Prior to my time at law school, I received my B.A. in legal studies at the University of California, Santa Cruz. During my tenure at Santa Cruz, I worked on housing law for protected groups and gained experience advocating for environmental legislation. During my free time I enjoy watching and playing sports, going on hikes, and reading in Golden Gate Park. I appreciate this opportunity and look forward to meeting the team.
Chase Wyatt
Law Clerk Past
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Jared Sohn graduated from University of North Carolina’s School of Law in 2019, and he recently passed the California Bar Examination. Jared is passionate about helping veterans and their families—just as veterans have volunteered to ensure that his family, and every other American, may live freely and safely at home. As such, he derives a strong sense of fulfillment from providing legal services to our soldiers, and he truly enjoys advocating on their behalves. In his free time, Jared enjoys watching, following, and playing sports. Jared sincerely thanks you for your service and for your sacrifice(s).
Jared Sohn
Law Clerk Past
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Polina Bilogrudova joined CVJP in July 2021 as a Law Clerk Intern. She has an undergraduate degree in Fine Arts as well as in Business Management. Currently, Polina attends Trinity Law School and has clerked for a Judge at the Orange County Superior Court. Polina has competed as a professional ballet dancer during her college years which greatly contributed to her work ethic and ability to manage her time and responsibilities. Polina's hobbies include playing golf, doing yoga and attending cooking classes. Polina is thrilled to be a part of CVJP.
Polina Bilogrudova
Law Clerk Past
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