AmeriCorps Legal Advocates of MA Advocacy encompasses many different possible activities, and each placement with ALA-Massachusetts is unique. Depending on the partner site's needs, each ALA-Massachusetts member engages in some, but not all, of the following legal activities: initial screening for eligibility, client communications, case development, legal research, legal writing, hearings, and community outreach. Some of our members are considered generalists and learn multiple areas of law, and some specialize with a single focus. The range of possible law practice areas are: • Housing • Immigration • Access to Government Benefits • Employment • Mental Health and Health Law • Legal Problems of Elders • Sealing of Criminal Records, and • Family Law. Advocates are supervised by legal professionals and receive training on client-centered communications and cultural competency. ALA-Massachusetts is looking for applicants who have an interest in poverty law, a commitment to service, and strong communications skills. Applicants who speak Spanish, Portuguese, Haitian-Creole, and other foreign language speakers are preferred. Member Duties : Advocacy encompasses many different possible activities, and each placement with ALA-Massachusetts is unique. Depending on the partner site's needs, each ALA-Massachusetts member engages in some, but not all, of the following legal activities: initial screening for eligibility, client communications, case development, legal research, legal writing, hearings, and community outreach. Some of our members are considered generalists and learn multiple areas of law, and some specialize with a single focus. Program Benefits : Training , Living Allowance , Childcare assistance if eligible , Health Coverage , Education award upon successful completion of service . Terms : Permits working at another job during off hours , Permits attendance at school during off hours . Service Areas : Community and Economic Development . Skills : Communications , General Skills , Team Work , Writing/Editing . AmeriCorps