Donj’e Cooper is a rising third-year year law student at North Carolina Central University School of Law who will be joining the Equal Access to Justice Commission and Pro Bono Resource Center as an intern for the summer of 2022. While she is new to the Pro Bono Resource Center, she is not new to volunteering. One of her favorite volunteer experiences is working as an Ambassador for the City Manager’s Office of Greensboro. She says, “This opportunity allowed me to aid in strengthening connections with City Managers and individuals in the community.” Donj’e has also volunteered with the Habitat for Humanity and Durham Rescue Mission. She says of her Habitat for Humanity experience “It allowed me to reach back and invest in an organization that shaped my perspective on what true service entails.”
Donj’e’s life has been enriched both personally and professionally by volunteering. She muses, “I truly believe we find ourselves in serving others. As I continue to serve, I learn, become, and grow.” Donj’e wants to apply what she is learning in law school and her past volunteer experience to address the access to justice gap by serving low-income North Carolinians.
Donj’e encourages law students who might think they don’t have time to go out and volunteer. “Get involved, even if it is just for an hour or two. It can make all the difference when everyone offers a little time to serve their community. Pro Bono also allows for networking opportunities which can shape a bigger picture for a better tomorrow.”
During her summer internship, Donj’e will work with our staff attorneys on the Driver’s License Restoration Project, Housing Stability Project, and Federal Public Defender Expunction Project, as well as assist with research for legislative matters and other Commission-related work. We are excited for Donj’e to work with us this summer and look forward to helping enrich her professional career through pro bono service!