Melissa Machuca

Melissa Machuca is Immigrant-ARC’s Legal Access Programs Associate (I-ARC). Before joining I-ARC, Melissa worked as a Bilingual Legal Assistant at Volunteers of Legal Service, an organization in partnership with NYC law firms and community organizations to provide free legal assistance to communities in need. With experience as a Senior Case Manager at Safe Horizon, Melissa supported victims in navigating the legal system for protective measures. Her community commitment is evident through her volunteer engagements with organizations such as Emerald Isle Immigration Center and Legal Hand. As a NY Community Trust Immigrant Leadership Fellow, Melissa conducted Know-Your-Rights sessions for the immigrant community. Being a native of Queens and a first-generation individual, Melissa is deeply committed to advocating for populations in need. Melissa holds a bachelor’s degree in Criminology and English from CUNY John Jay College of Criminal Justice.