#sparkchamber 070218 — Emily Herzig
This week, we observe the 4th of July holiday — Independence Day. A day off from work, a day of barbecues and fireworks, sure. But at the core, a celebration of the revolutionary ideas and ideals of America’s founders; creating a nation driven by the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. In honor of that spirit, today #sparkchamber welcomes advocate and food artist Emily Herzig.
Hailing from the Berkshires, and now living on the Massachusetts North Shore, Emily is dedicated to helping low-income, often disenfranchised people through her legal services work at the Northeast Justice Center. With a mission of obtaining justice and empowerment through skillful, creative, and persistent advocacy for systemic change and high-quality individual representation, Northeast Justice Center offers civil legal services from counsel and advice to full representation on matters of immigration, public benefits, housing/foreclosure, and elder law.
And they welcome volunteers! Lawyers can join their pro-bono involvement program that provides opportunities to do legal work in all areas of practice. Law students can participate in summer internships and volunteer at any time of year. Non-lawyers from all walks of life and professions are needed as well, helping to do everything from reception, administrative support, fundraising, and so much more. If you are interested in volunteering, follow this link, click on the “inquire about volunteering” box, and someone will get in touch with you.
Outside of work, Emily loves to cook — “It’s my creative space. I love feeding others!” — as well as music, dance, and yoga.
1.] Where do ideas come from?
Desire, necessity
2.] What is the itch you are scratching?
Desire to please myself and to please others
3.] Early bird or night owl, tortoise or hare?
In my work as an advocate, I am motivated by my client’s need. I’m excited by finding a solution for them when they think there is no solution. I’m invigorated when someone tells me that “it can't be done,” and I find a way anyhow. In my personal life, I love to cook and bake. I’m motivated by imagining what a certain person will think when they eat my food.
4.] How do you know when you are done?
I think I’ve done my best