Cal State Fullerton Associated Students Inc. and the Titan Dreamers Resource Center are partnering with the nonprofit organization Central American Resource Center to offer free immigration consultations to students, staff and their immediate families on Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the Diversity Initiatives and Resource Centers, located in Pollak Library, Room 180.
The Family-Based Petition Clinic, which offers one-on-one consultations with experienced immigration attorneys, is accepting appointments via SimplyBookMe on the CARECEN website. CSUF community members can meet with a qualified immigration attorney for case-specific advice, questions about the petition process and personalized legal guidance.
“We hope that students and the CSUF community will better understand their rights and the resources available to them,” said Guy Bonetati, CARECEN’s provisionally licensed lawyer. “We aim to alleviate some of the anxiety and uncertainty that often accompanies immigration issues and to foster a sense of community and support.”
Whether participants need guidance on visa petitions, family reunification or other immigration-related issues, this resource will provide the necessary legal support in navigating complex immigration processes.
“ASI hopes the message that people receive is that they have a home here, that we see them and we’re trying our best to provide a safe space on campus for students to connect with resources,” said Andrea Ramirez Rivera, ASI chief diversity and inclusion officer. “In connection with campus centers and CARECEN, ASI is holding space for individuals regardless of documentation status.”
The TDRC is also key to introducing this resource to the Titan community.
“Many students are unaware of our existence, despite having been here for 10 years,” said Jenny Chung, coordinator of the Titan Dreamers Resource Center. “Through events like the Family-Based Petition Clinic, we hope to increase awareness of the TDRC and the services we offer to the CSUF community.”
The Family-Based Petition Clinic, launched by ASI’s Social Justice and Equity Commission, brings together TDRC and CARECEN to expand legal services on campus. This collaboration aims to enhance support for those seeking assistance and strengthen connections within the Titan community.
By Ross Boak and Sofia Serrano