Cleared to Thrive: Why This Is Personal
Hi, I'm Marcos Villeda Sanchinelli and this campaign means a great deal to me for two reasons.

First, my father serves as Executive Director of Christian Legal Aid of DC (CLADC), a nonprofit that provides free legal representation to the most vulnerable people in the Washington, DC metro area. I've seen firsthand the dedication, heart, and faith he brings to this mission every day and I want to stand behind it.

Second, I believe criminal justice requires grace. For many low-income individuals, an old criminal record continues to slam doors shut— blocking access to jobs, housing, and vocational training long after they've tried to move forward. That's not rehabilitation. That's a second punishment.

What CLADC does:
CLA's staff and volunteer attorneys help clients fight wrongful evictions, hold negligent landlords accountable, navigate probate and guardianship, and plan for their futures. Through the Cleared to Thrive Campaign, CLA DC is focused specifically on clearing eligible criminal records by removing the legal barriers that keep people from fully stepping into the lives they're building.

My goal:
I've committed to raising $1,000 by April 28th. Your gift at any level helps fund the legal work that turns a cleared record into a real second chance.

Three ways to give:

Online: Right here on this page
By check: Payable to Christian Legal Aid of DC, PO BOX 70555, Washington, DC 20024
Donor Advised Fund: Direct to Christian Legal Aid of DC, EIN: 26-1493743

And even if you can't give right now, please take a moment to read the client stories on this page. They are a powerful reminder that grace, when put into action, changes lives.
Thank you for being part of this.
With gratitude,
Marcos Villeda Sanchinelli