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Justice at Work: Breaking Access Barriers to Employment

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This content was originally part of a Justice Lives Here newsletter. Click here to subscribe to get the latest news and updates from the Advocacy Center delivered directly to your email mailbox.

Earlier this month we celebrated Labor Day, a holiday born from the labor movement’s fight for fair wages, safe working conditions, and the dignity of work.

We’re reminded that everyone deserves the chance to work with dignity and to build a stable life through that work. At Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy, we help people overcome the legal barriers that stand between them and meaningful employment. Whether it’s securing a work permit, protecting a worker from exploitation, or ensuring access to healthcare that makes holding a job possible, our team is here to help. In this edition, we’re highlighting the many ways legal advocacy supports people on their path to employment and economic stability.

Expunctions: Clearing the Path for a Brighter Future

Did you know that about 1 in 4 North Carolinians have a criminal record? A criminal record, even for a minor or dismissed offense, can create lasting barriers to employment. At Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy, we believe everyone deserves a fair chance to build a stable and fulfilling life—including access to work. Our expungement services help clients clear eligible charges from their records, removing one of the most persistent obstacles to finding a job.

Through our legal clinics and one-on-one representation, we assist individuals in navigating the complex process of record expungement. For many, this is more than a legal service—it’s a life-changing opportunity. Once a record is cleared, clients can apply for jobs with confidence, gain access to better housing, and start planning for a more secure future.

In 2024, Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy assisted 250 clients through multiple expungement clinics.

Nicole’s Journey and the Power of Expungement

When Nicole first heard about the Charlotte Expunction Clinic at the Mecklenburg County Courthouse, she had no idea how much it would transform her future. Burdened by misdemeanor and felony charges, she had spent over a decade being defined by her past. With the help of volunteer attorneys at the Clinic, Nicole began the process of clearing her misdemeanors. The day she received confirmation that her record was partially cleared was a turning point—but just the beginning of her journey.

Determined to move forward, Nicole worked with Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy to tackle the more difficult expungement of her felony convictions. With an attorney from the Advocacy Center representing her, she successfully cleared her record across multiple counties. As doors opened, Nicole reclaimed her life—finishing high school, inspiring her son to graduate alongside her, and finally becoming a Certified Nurse Assistant. Today, she’s employed in a role that reflects her growth and determination. Nicole’s story is a powerful reminder that with support and a second chance, people can rise, rebuild and create lasting change.

“Some of us grow up, but the world won’t always let us. They only see our past mistakes. But thanks to the Advocacy Center, I can finally introduce people to the person I am now.”

-Nicole

Stable Housing: Laying a Foundation for Employment and Resilience

At the Advocacy Center, we believe that stable housing is more than just shelter—it’s the foundation for stable employment and long-term opportunity. Without a safe, secure place to live, it becomes nearly impossible to maintain a job, care for a family, or plan for a better future. That’s why we prioritize sustaining and protecting affordable homeownership. It fosters family stability, supports consistent employment, strengthens the local economy, and enables the transfer of generational wealth.

Charlotte has a homeownership rate of 65%, with many of these homes owned by longtime, working, low-wealth families, seniors and people with disabilities. The Advocacy Center partners with families to explore alternatives to foreclosure, access critical home repairs, advise heirs about homeownership preservation, and educate the community on the increasing prevalence of home equity and foreclosure rescue scams.

When a family is able to preserve an affordable, long-held home, it significantly improves their ability to access and maintain employment. That stability benefits not just the individual household—but also neighborhoods and the broader community.

Major Changes Coming to Health Coverage Access: What Consumers Need to Know

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Important changes to both Marketplace and Medicaid health coverage programs are scheduled to begin this year, significantly impacting low-income individuals, immigrant communities, and those who rely on coverage assistance programs. These reforms are the result of recent regulations from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and the passing of the Budget Reconciliation Bill (P.L. 119-21). The changes will take effect from August 2025 through 2028.

Here’s what consumers need to know:

Medicaid, Immigration & Your Information: What You Need To Know

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WHAT WE KNOW

On 7/17/25, it became known that the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services – an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – shared Medicaid recipients’ (not necessarily applicants) data with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security for purposes of immigration and customs enforcement.

NCDHHS recently added a web page answering some questions including:
• What does NC Medicaid at NCDHHS know?
• What information is shared from NC Medicaid?
• What data is being shared with the federal government?

ENROLLEES AND APPLICANTS SHOULD KNOW
1️⃣ The law prohibits sharing personal information with immigration officials about people who use government-funded health or social services
2️⃣ If the Department of Homeland Security already knows your current address, applying for benefits does not increase your risk
3️⃣ There is no added risk in continuing programs if you are already getting services and you have not moved
4️⃣ Dropping out of vital support programs won’t erase the data you have already provided, and keeping Medicaid will help your family

NEED HELP?
Understanding Medicaid eligibility can be confusing, but you don’t have to figure it out alone. Schedule a free appointment with a local Health Insurance Navigator.
📞 980‑256‑3782
🌐 ncnavigator.org

Reflections from the Annual Summer Intern Gathering in Raleigh

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This summer, Advancement and Communications Intern Abigail Stakes joined fellow interns from Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy on a special trip to Raleigh for the 2nd Annual Summer Intern Gathering. Below, Abigail shares highlights from the experience.

Last week, Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy’s summer interns had the opportunity to travel to Raleigh for the second Annual Summer Intern Gathering, hosted by the North Carolina Equal Justice Alliance (NCEJA). This event brought together interns from legal nonprofits across the state for a day of learning, inspiration and connection. 

The day began at the North Carolina State Bar, where interns were welcomed with powerful messages from legal leaders across the state. Speakers included: 

  • Caroline Casey, Legal Aid of North Carolina’s Wilson Office 
  • Davis Lovvorn, Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy 
  • Drew Fabricius, Disability Rights NC 
  • Peter Bolac, Executive Director, NC State Bar 
  • Mary Irvine, Executive Director, NC IOLTA 

Each speaker shared their path into public interest law and emphasized the importance of access to justice and equity in legal advocacy. Their stories and insights reminded us of the impact we can make when we dedicate our work to serving others. 

Following a networking lunch with interns from nonprofits all over North Carolina, the group made their way to the North Carolina Supreme Court. There, they had the incredible honor of meeting Associate Justice Anita Earls, who gave them a private tour of the Supreme Court and its museum. From historical photographs to trailblazing justices, the museum offers a glimpse into North Carolina’s legal legacy. 

The day continued with a visit to the North Carolina Court of Appeals, where The Honorable Judge Jeffery Carpenter welcomed us and shared insights into the appellate process and the inner workings of the court. 

To round out the trip, Quisha Mallette, Fair Chance Attorney at the NC Justice Center, led us on a tour of the North Carolina General Assembly, giving us a deeper understanding of how policy and law intersect in our state.  

Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy to Expand Services with Addition of Education Law Program; Transition From Council for Children’s Rights to Be Completed by September 2025

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For Immediate Release: July 17, 2025
Kelly Lynn, Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy, 980.202.7320, kelly.lynn@charlottelegaladvocacy.org 

CHARLOTTE CENTER FOR LEGAL ADVOCACY TO EXPAND SERVICES WITH ADDITION OF EDUCATION LAW PROGRAM; TRANSITION FROM COUNCIL FOR CHILDREN’S RIGHTS TO BE COMPLETED BY SEPTEMBER 2025 

Charlotte, NC – Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy (Advocacy Center), a nonprofit civil legal services organization committed to pursuing justice for those in need, will expand its services this fall by integrating the Education Law Program (ELP), formerly housed at the Council for Children’s Rights (CFCR).  

The transition marks a significant milestone for both organizations and ensures the continued delivery of high-quality legal services to students and families in Mecklenburg and surrounding counties. Beginning by September 2025, the Education Law Program will become a permanent part of the Advocacy Center’s portfolio of services. The transition includes four experienced attorneys who currently lead the program and will continue their work with the Advocacy Center.   

The Education Law Program provides legal representation for students and their families in Mecklenburg and surrounding counties, focusing on special education, Section 504 and disciplinary issues. It offers education navigation for court-involved youth in the foster care or juvenile justice systems, helping families and professionals support educational rights. Through free community trainings, it builds the capacity of parent groups and partners to advocate effectively. Recognizing limited resources, the team amplifies its impact through systemic advocacy targeting broader educational barriers. A key priority is improving outcomes for youth in foster care across North Carolina. Overall, this multi-tiered approach blends individual support with strategic outreach to create lasting educational change.  

CFCR Interim Executive Director Karen Parker expresses, “Our staff and board of directors are thrilled that the Advocacy Center will become the new home for the Education Law Program, providing the perfect environment for this initiative to grow and thrive. We offer deepest thanks to all of the volunteers and staff who served the children of our community through the Council for Children’s Rights over the years. We look forward to seeing all that will be accomplished in this next exciting phase!”

Earlier this year, CFCR discontinued its Custody Advocacy Program and Children’s Defense Team. Following the transition of the Education Law Program this fall, the organization will formally conclude its operations after more than four decades of service to the Charlotte community.  

“We are honored to carry forward the vital mission of the Education Law Program,” said Larissa Mañón Mervin, CEO of Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy. “The Council for Children’s Rights has built an incredible legacy of advocacy for youth, and we are proud to build on that foundation. The decision by both of our Boards to transition the program to the Advocacy Center reflects our shared commitment to strengthening and sustaining this critical work.” 

The Advocacy Center’s Board of Trustees expressed strong support for the transition. “We enthusiastically welcome the Education Law Program and the experienced team leading it,” said Matt Robertson, Chair of the Board of Trustees for Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy. “This addition aligns with our mission by strengthening our ability to remove barriers to opportunity for children and families. We are confident this integration will ensure that more young people in our community can access the education they deserve and are happy that CFCR’s vital educational advocacy can continue.”

Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy remains committed to upholding the rights of vulnerable populations, including children, and will ensure that the Education Law Program continues to serve families with the care, excellence and impact it has always delivered.  

About Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy 

Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy can provide those in need with information, advice and advocacy in consumer protection, home preservation, health care access and public benefits, immigration, tax assistance and more. Our mission is to pursue justice for those in need. Our vision is to build a just community, where all people are treated fairly and have access to legal representation to meet their basic human needs of safety, economic security and stability. Learn more at charlottelegaladvocacy.org. 

Mark Your Calendar: Back to School Bash Set for July 23

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Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy will host its annual Back to School Bash on Wednesday, July 23, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at its office at 5535 Albemarle Road.

This FREE, family-friendly event is an opportunity for children and families to celebrate the season, connect with community resources, and prepare for a strong start to the school year.

Attendees can enjoy:

  • Connecting with community resources
  • FREE food, games and activities
  • FREE backpacks and school supplies

Justice in June: Stand up for families. Stand up for safety. Stand up for justice.

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This month marks the launch of the Justice in June Campaign, a vital, month-long fundraising effort dedicated to providing life-changing legal services to the people in our community who need them most.

At a time when social and economic challenges are putting increasing pressure on families across the country, the need for accessible legal support has never been more urgent. Whether it’s a parent fighting to maintain essential health coverage, a family at risk of losing their home, or an individual seeking safety and security, the Justice in June campaign is a call to action — to ensure that justice is not a privilege, but a right for all.

“Justice can’t wait, and neither can we,” said Evelyn Anderson, Advancement Specialist. “This campaign is about partnering with our community to make sure that no one has to face a legal crisis alone. With your support, we can bring hope and stability to our neighbors facing housing insecurity, health care barriers, immigration challenges, and more.”

Contributions to the campaign directly support legal aid services that empower individuals and families to navigate complex legal systems and secure critical protections.

Every gift brings us one step closer to a more just and equitable community. To learn more about the campaign or make a donation, please click here.

Together, we can bring justice within reach — this June and beyond.

“Having Medicaid and all the help that I have is imperative for my baby”

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There are moments in life when the strength of a mother is tested beyond measure, but in those moments, we discover the depth of her love, resilience, and unwavering faith.

For this mother, days are often a journey filled with both joy and heartache. She is a single mom, fighting for the life of her precious baby boy who, from the moment he was born, has faced unimaginable challenges. Her son was born with Down syndrome, and soon after, he was diagnosed with leukemia. For the first five months of his life, he needed oxygen just to breathe, his tiny body struggling in ways no parent should have to witness.

But despite the fragility of his health, this little boy, her angel, continues to fight every single day. Now six months old, he has started breathing on his own, a testament to his strength and the devotion of the mother. Every meal is carefully prepared by mixing milk and oatmeal to ensure he can swallow safely.

“He is my life, my angel sent by God,” she says. And with that belief, she faces the overwhelming obstacles of their journey together—one step at a time.

At a time when she felt lost and overwhelmed by the weight of her son’s medical needs, the hospital referred her to Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy (Advocacy Center), where she found the guidance and support she so desperately needed. The Advocacy Center became her beacon of hope, offering the assistance and expertise necessary to help her navigate the complexities of securing Medicaid and ensuring that her son received the medical care he needed to survive and thrive. It was through the Advocacy Center’s guidance that she was able to access the critical resources that made all the difference in her son’s life.

The Advocacy Center helped her connect the dots, securing vital assistance that supported not only her son’s health but also her peace of mind as a mother. “Having Medicaid and all the help that I have is imperative for my baby,” she said.

Her story is one of faith, not just in God, but in the goodness of people who step in and offer help when it’s needed most. It is a reminder of the critical importance of programs like Medicaid and organizations like the Advocacy Center that support families in times of crisis. For this mother, these resources are not just numbers or policies—they are lifelines, the thread that holds her family together.

And as she watches her son take each breath, knowing how far he’s come, she remains forever grateful. Grateful for the love that fills her heart, grateful for every moment they have together, and most of all, grateful for the hope that her little boy continues to inspire. In the face of adversity, with a mother’s love and the right support, miracles are possible. And this mother, with her baby boy in her arms, will continue fighting for him—because that’s what mothers do.

Charlotte Center For Legal Advocacy Names New CEO

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For Immediate Release: April 24, 2025

Kelly Lynn, Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy, 980.202.7320, kelly.lynn@charlottelegaladvocacy.org

Charlotte, NC – Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy (Advocacy Center), a nonprofit civil legal services organization committed to pursuing justice for those in need, is pleased to announce the appointment of Larissa Mañón Mervin as its new Chief Executive Officer. Mañón Mervin will officially assume the role on May 27, 2025.

Larissa Mañón Mervin brings a deep commitment to legal equity and a wealth of experience to the Advocacy Center. She currently serves as the Regional Managing Attorney of Legal Aid of North Carolina’s Piedmont region, where she oversees the Charlotte, Concord and Gastonia offices. She also serves as the Managing Attorney for the Charlotte office, where she manages the Charlotte office’s operations, personnel and case work in a variety of practice areas, including landlord-tenant, domestic violence, family and consumer law. Prior to serving as Regional Managing Attorney, Mañón Mervin worked in various roles at Legal Aid of North Carolina, including as supervising attorney with their statewide Pro Bono Program, supervising attorney with the Domestic Violence Unit at Legal Aid – Charlotte, and as a domestic violence staff attorney in the Concord, Raleigh and Durham offices. In those roles, Mañón Mervin primarily represented survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and child abuse in their civil protection order cases. Throughout her career, Mañón Mervin has been a tireless advocate for marginalized populations, continually working to ensure access to justice and fairness in civil legal matters.

Mañón Mervin received her Bachelor of Arts degree, summa cum laude, from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro and her Juris Doctorate, cum laude, from Quinnipiac University School of Law. She completed her legal studies as a visiting student at the University of North Carolina School of Law after moving back to North Carolina, and she successfully completed an executive management leadership program at Harvard Business School last year.

Mañón Mervin serves on various boards and bar associations, including the American Bar Association, North Carolina Bar Association, Cabarrus County Bar Association, and Mecklenburg Bar Association. She has received numerous awards for her work and commitment to justice, including the Charlotte Business Journal’s 40 under 40, North Carolina Lawyers Weekly and The Mecklenburg Times’ 50 Most Influential Women, the Power 100 awarded by the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, National Bar Association and Washington Bar Association, and the Ronda F. Williams Professionalism Award.

“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead the Advocacy Center at such a pivotal time in our community’s history,” said Mañón Mervin. “Access to justice is vital in protecting the rights of our most vulnerable neighbors. Using the rule of law to ensure safety and stability to those in need is the responsible, wise and compassionate thing to do. It is what the advocates at the Advocacy Center do every day, and I’m excited to join such a dedicated group of professionals in this righteous and necessary work.”

The Board of Directors expresses deep appreciation for Kara Moskowitz, who has served as Interim CEO for the past year, as well as Cassidy Estes-Rogers, who has served as the Interim COO, each of whom guided the organization through a time of transition with grace and dedication.

“We are thrilled to welcome Larissa Mañón Mervin to the Advocacy Center,” said Ed O’Keefe, Chairperson of the Board of Trustees for Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy. “Her strategic vision, legal expertise and passion for justice make her the right leader to guide us forward. We are equally grateful to Kara Moskowitz and Cassidy Estes-Rogers for their steady leadership during the interim period.”

The Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy provides legal services in areas such as health care access, immigration, consumer protection, public benefits, tax clinics and more. With Mañón Mervin at the helm, the organization looks forward to deepening its impact and continuing its fight for equal justice under the law.

About Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy

Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy can provide those in need with information, advice and advocacy in consumer protection, home preservation, health care access and public benefits, immigration, tax assistance and more. Our mission is to pursue justice for those in need. Our vision is to build a just community, where all people are treated fairly and have access to legal representation to meet their basic human needs of safety, economic security and stability. Learn more at charlottelegaladvocacy.org.

Our Health Insurance Navigators Are Leading the Way in Healthcare Access, and Now They’re Award-Winning

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At Charlotte Center for Legal Advocacy, we know that access to healthcare changes lives—and so does the dedication of the people who help make that access possible.

As a part of the North Carolina Navigator Consortium, our federally certified Health Insurance Navigators provide free, unbiased assistance to individuals and families who need help navigating health insurance options under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), along with Medicaid and other federal and state programs.

Advocacy Center Navigators Honored with Statewide Award for Impact on Healthcare Enrollment

In March, our Health Insurance Navigators received the Consortium Member Impact Award from the NC Navigator Consortium. This recognition celebrates the Navigators’ exceptional contributions to public health through their work supporting Affordable Care Act (ACA) and Medicaid enrollment efforts across North Carolina.

The award was presented during a special gathering in Raleigh that marked two major milestones: the 15th anniversary of the ACA and the enrollment of more than 640,000 North Carolinians in Medicaid expansion. Navigators from across the state joined community partners and fellow advocates to celebrate these achievements.

Advocacy Center Navigators Recognized at Assister Appreciation Event

In April, two Advocacy Center Health Insurance Navigators received top honors at the North Carolina Annual Assister Appreciation Event in Greensboro.

Tanja Pauler was named Navigator of the Year. This award goes to a Navigator who has shown exceptional dedication and outstanding service throughout the year, continuously going above and beyond to help our communities navigate the healthcare system and access health coverage. 

Natalie Marles, Health Insurance Navigator Project Manager, shared:

Since joining the CCLA team in 2022, Tanja has been an incredible addition to our team in the constantly changing world of access to healthcare. Her dedication, expertise, and strong integrity have raised the bar for what it means to advocate for those trying to navigate the often-tricky world of health coverage. Tanja has tackled some of the toughest challenges in our field, especially those involving agent and broker fraud and the complexities of Medicaid eligibility during the expansion. These are not easy topics to navigate; they demand a deep knowledge of policy, attention to detail, and a heartfelt commitment to clients’ well-being. Tanja brings all of this—and so much more—every single day. Her clients see her as not just a Navigator, but as a trusted friend and advocate. Her colleagues think of her as a go-to resource, a collaborative partner, and a caring presence. We all know her work has made a real impact on the lives of many people. Tanja, your professionalism, compassion, and tireless commitment to helping your clients embody the spirit of this award.

Natalie Marles was honored as the Health Access Champion, a recognition reserved for those who go above and beyond in their efforts to ensure North Carolinians can access vital healthcare services and coverage. Natalie’s leadership has been critical in supporting our team and driving impact across the region.

Julieanne Taylor, Interim Director of the Family Support & Health Care Program, said:

Since becoming the Navigator Program Manager at the Advocacy Center, Natalie has worked tirelessly with her team to reach as many North Carolinians as possible to ensure they have access to healthcare. Natalie’s passion for helping others is evident in her fearlessness to fight for immigrant families and those who are underserved in our community. Natalie is a trusted community leader and has cultivated relationships with countless partner organizations across North Carolina to expand her impact in the healthcare arena. Natalie has hosted Health & Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, Vice President Kamala Harris, and has been recognized by Former NC Governor Roy Cooper for her Medicaid Expansion efforts. Natalie is beyond deserving of this honor and we are so proud of the incredible work she does everyday. Congratulations, Natalie!!

We are so proud of both Tanja and Natalie and grateful for the dedication they bring to this work. Their commitment makes a difference every single day.

If you or someone you know needs help understanding their health coverage options, our team is here to help.

Call 980-256-3782 or visit www.ncnavigator.org to schedule a free appointment.