VLJ is proud to recognize Kim Garcia as our May 2022 Defender of Justice! Kim joined VLJ in 2019 as the Legal Assistant for VLJ’s Veterans Legal Wellness Program. She also supported our Development team with major events, such as our Annual Gala and Summer Soiree, website management, and fundraising. Kim later took on the Debt Relief Legal Program, and now, almost three years after she joined VLJ, Kim supports the New Jersey Human Trafficking Victims Legal Assistance and Divorce Programs. If that weren’t enough, Kim also helps Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking clients in other program areas.
Kim grew up in the Ironbound neighborhood of Newark and she works tirelessly to give back to her community. She attended Arts High School in Downtown Newark, and graduated from Ramapo College in 2017 with a B.A. in Law and Society. During her time in college, Kim joined the International Justice Mission, a faith-based community organization that combats human trafficking across the world. Kim has a demonstrated commitment to civil service and human rights, and she continues to be a fearless advocate for underserved communities through VLJ.
Kim is a dedicated client advocate, working closely with clients to guide them throughout their time with VLJ. She provides critical support to the Trafficking and Divorce team by managing clinics, coordinating with volunteers, and working closely with clients to help them navigate the legal system. Kim always strives to make clients feel safe and seen throughout their case, and many clients have told VLJ that her kindness in the face of difficult situations makes them feel more comfortable seeking help from VLJ and our partner providers. Kim is a compassionate navigator, challenging injustices and helping people find a way forward. She is a key part of the VLJ team and constantly promotes VLJ’s growth as an organization.
“Kim has a rare and special gift in her ability to work with people,” says Diana Onuschak, VLJ’s Director of Administration and Community Engagement. “Her aptitude to empathize, listen, and respond allows her to connect with the individuals accessing VLJ’s services in a way that makes them feel heard.”
When not at VLJ, Kim can be found working on a range of creative projects, from woodworking to drawing to multilingual poetry. Kim is incredibly skilled in music production; she writes and sings original music, and also plays the alto saxophone, guitar, and piano. Kim loves spending time with her family, particularly her cuddly cat, Tegan (Tegan is working on becoming the next “Insta famous” feline influencer).