Our Impact
Program Highlights
ASYLUM PROGRAM
Ongoing attacks and unpredictable changes have decimated the U.S. asylum system, but ILAP is committed to helping as many people as possible make their rightful claims and find safety from persecution.
Our Asylum Program reaches more than 1,000 Mainers each year, including through representation by our dedicated Pro Bono Panel members, community workshops, and more.
IMMIGRANT CHILDREN’S PROJECT
The path to lawful immigration status is often a complicated one, and ILAP believes that no child or young person should face the immigration system alone.
Through our Immigrant Children’s Project, we offer legal representation and assistance to more than 150 immigrant children and youth in Maine each year.
RURAL MAINE PROJECT
Maine is a large, rural state, and ILAP thinks everyone should have equal access to immigration legal services no matter where they live.
Our Rural Maine Project combines direct and virtual outreach in all sixteen counties so immigrant community members can understand their rights and get the legal help they need to thrive.
Community Stories
ILAP is deeply appreciative of the ILAP clients and community members who bravely share their stories and shine a light on the injustices inherent in our immigration system. Our work would not be possible without their partnership and courage.
Leandre, Former Client
When Leandre arrived in U.S., forced out by instability in his home country, he began again at square one. Left behind were his friends, his family, his possessions, and everything that he had worked so hard to attain. As he began to rebuild a life and a home, Leandre faced a new challenge: the legal intricacies that come with attempting to gain legal status in the United States. That's where ILAP came in. Working closely with Leandre, they helped him work through the complex legal documents and procedure that mark the beginning of any immigrant's life in the U.S.
Zaineb, Former Client
When Zaineb was finally granted refugee status after many years spent living in Iraq, Jordan, and Syria, she was unable to ensure that her infant son could come with her. Her son, born in Syria, was not afforded the same protections and refugee status given to Zaineb, an Iraqi native. With little choice, Zaineb came to the United States, but never stopped fighting to bring her son with her. ILAP stepped in to help with her case and, after many months, Zaineb was reunited with her son.
Jane, Volunteer
As a lawyer with more than forty years of experience, Jane was looking to find a way to use her skills to support the Portland community. That's when she heard about ILAP. Familiar with the intricacies of the legal back-end of the immigration process, Jane works with ILAP clients to cut through the dozens of pages of legalese to make sense of a process that is fraught with emotion and hardship. Thanks to her tireless efforts, Maine has been able to welcome many new citizens.
Adele, Former Board Member
When Adele arrived in the United States, she came with no social network and a limited grasp of English. Pairing this with the intricacies of the immigration system, Adele knew she needed a hand. That’s where ILAP came in, helping her gain legal status so that she could build a family and a life in Portland. Since then, she has become a small business owner and continues to work with ILAP as a member of our Board of Directors. Bringing a unique voice and experience to the organization, Adele continues to be a key player in the ILAP story.
SUPPORT OUR WORK
ILAP’s strong network of support makes our work possible. Join our community of supporters so Maine’s immigrant community members can get the legal help they need to thrive, while we advocate for a better and more equitable system. Make a gift today to help advance justice for immigrants in Maine!