Kids In Need Of Defense (KIND) is a non-profit organization that provides pro bono legal representation to unaccompanied immigrant and refugee children in the United States. The organization was founded in 2008 by Microsoft Corporation and Angelina Jolie, with the goal of ensuring that these vulnerable children have access to legal counsel and a fair chance to navigate the complex U.S. immigration system.
History and Mission
KIND was established in response to the growing number of unaccompanied children arriving at the U.S.-Mexico border, many of whom were fleeing violence, abuse, and persecution in their home countries. The organization’s mission is to provide these children with high-quality legal representation, as well as to advocate for policies and practices that protect their rights and promote their well-being. KIND’s work is guided by the principle that every child deserves a safe and supportive environment, and that no child should be forced to navigate the immigration system alone.
Services and Programs
KIND provides a range of services and programs to support unaccompanied immigrant and refugee children, including:
- Pro bono legal representation: KIND recruits and trains volunteer attorneys to provide free legal representation to unaccompanied children in immigration proceedings.
- Case management: KIND provides case management services to help children access medical and mental health care, education, and other essential services.
- Advocacy: KIND advocates for policies and practices that protect the rights and promote the well-being of unaccompanied children, both at the national and local levels.
- Training and technical assistance: KIND provides training and technical assistance to attorneys, social workers, and other professionals who work with unaccompanied children.
KIND also operates a number of specialized programs, including a Border Program that provides legal representation and case management services to children in border regions, and a National Program that provides technical assistance and support to attorneys and organizations working with unaccompanied children across the country.
Impact and Outcomes
KIND has had a significant impact on the lives of unaccompanied immigrant and refugee children in the United States. Since its founding, the organization has:
| Year | Number of Children Served | Number of Volunteer Attorneys |
|---|---|---|
| 2008 | 200 | 100 |
| 2010 | 500 | 200 |
| 2015 | 2,000 | 500 |
| 2020 | 5,000 | 1,000 |
KIND’s work has also contributed to a number of positive outcomes for unaccompanied children, including increased access to legal representation, improved case outcomes, and enhanced protection from trafficking and other forms of exploitation.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the progress that has been made, unaccompanied immigrant and refugee children continue to face a number of challenges in the United States. These include:
Detention and deportation: Many unaccompanied children are detained by immigration authorities, and may be subject to deportation proceedings. KIND works to ensure that these children have access to legal representation and a fair chance to present their case.
Trafficking and exploitation: Unaccompanied children are vulnerable to trafficking and other forms of exploitation. KIND provides training and technical assistance to help identify and respond to these risks.
Lack of access to education and healthcare: Unaccompanied children may struggle to access essential services like education and healthcare. KIND works to connect these children with local resources and service providers.
Future Directions
As the landscape of immigration policy and practice continues to evolve, KIND is poised to adapt and respond to the changing needs of unaccompanied immigrant and refugee children. Some potential future directions for the organization include:
- Expanding pro bono legal representation programs to reach more children in need.
- Developing new training and technical assistance programs to support attorneys and other professionals working with unaccompanied children.
- Advocating for policies and practices that promote the rights and well-being of unaccompanied children, both at the national and local levels.
What services does KIND provide to unaccompanied immigrant and refugee children?
+KIND provides pro bono legal representation, case management, advocacy, training, and technical assistance to support unaccompanied immigrant and refugee children in the United States.
How can I get involved with KIND’s work?
+There are a number of ways to get involved with KIND’s work, including volunteering as a pro bono attorney, donating to support the organization’s programs and services, and spreading the word about the importance of protecting the rights and promoting the well-being of unaccompanied immigrant and refugee children.
