CCLS wants to acknowledge the incredible dedication of Orchid Hubanks, who celebrates her 50th aniversary with CCLS this year! Executive Director Michelle Kezirian expresses the feelings of everyone at CCLS when she says, “We are grateful for the years of dedicated service that Orchid has contributed to our community!”

Orchid Hubanks has selflessly worked on behalf of clients in need for her entire professional career. Here is her story:

I am living my dream — to pass on the history of CCLS along with my experiences to our staff and the entire community. I would like people to know how essential legal services are, and that it is especially important to be compassionate. I have devoted more than half my life to this work, it has always been more than a job to me and is still very personally fulfilling. I have a strong work ethic and believe that setting a high standard is important no matter what you do. The common thread throughout is the enjoyment I have while working directly with clients and staff. I hope the work I do is making a difference in our community.

I was raised by my mother and grandmother on the island of Terceira, Portugal. Growing up, none of my family spoke English. The United States was a place spoken of fondly, where people immigrated to start a new life and make their fortune; I had no idea I would be one of those lucky people.

When her father died, my mother quit the university to help support the family. There were no social programs available and money was tight. We left our family and friends for a country that provides more freedom and opportunities.

It was important for me to learn English as quickly as I could to interpret and translate for my parents. My mother took evening classes to learn the language, became a naturalized citizen and was able to vote. It was important to her that she be able to express her opinions and exercise her rights as a citizen. I realized it was also extremely important to me.

I found my calling quite by accident at CCLS. The more I learned about legal services, heard clients’ stories, and saw the impact we have, the more I realized this is where I’m meant to be. I believe everyone should have access to the legal system, regardless of their economic or social standing. It can mean the difference between a decent place to live or being homeless; whether a domestic violence, elder abuse or human trafficking victim is protected from abuse or forced to endure it; whether someone is awarded their rightful benefits or if someone has adequate health care coverage.

There are many obstacles and hardships our clients face, but we make sure they are heard and treated fairly. We emphasize that we are here to listen and help, not judge. Regardless of their situation, our clients must be treated with respect and dignity, and be assured their voices will be heard and their rights protected. I admire our staff for their principles and the lasting impact we have on the community.

I hope you too are living your dream.