Community Veteran Justice Project
Meet The Team
Jodi Galvin
Executive Director
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Jodi Galvin has spent her career in public service. She is a seasoned attorney with over 30 years of experience working within the criminal justice system. Jodi served as a Public Defender Investigator for eleven years in both the Mental Health and Criminal sections, and also as a Los Angeles City Attorney Prosecutor for twenty-one years. Coming from a military-connected family, Jodi has always been a valuable advocate for veteran affairs. Jodi is the Founder and Executive Director of the Community Veteran Justice Project; chairs the Legal & Re-Entry Committee for the LA Veteran Collaborative, has been an active member of the LACBA Armed Forces Committee; and has served on national, statewide and local veteran committees and projects.
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Peter Fendel
Volunteer Attorney
Peter is a Marine Corps veteran and an attorney licensed in California (awaiting bar results in Colorado). Peter graduated from Pepperdine Law School cum laude where he served as the president of the Veterans Legal Society and sat on the Veterans Recruitment Committee. He also attended the University of Colorado Boulder where he received a B.A. in Political Science. Peter has extensive experience working with veterans - serving as the veterans and military liaison in a Congressional office, volunteering with his fellow veterans conducting disaster response with Team Rubicon, and through his own journey as a service-connected V.A. patient. Peter has experience in civil litigation and water law, and is currently transitioning to a career in public service law. Peter enjoys golfing, hiking, and exercising where he lives in Colorado with his rottweiler, Bear.
Monica Mooring
Social Worker Field Supervisor
Dr. Monica Mooring is a social work professional with over 20+ years of direct practice at the macro-level, mezzo-level, and micro-level. She is passionate about helping those most vulnerable realize and achieve their highest potential as they define achievement.
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Jimmy Askew
Project Coordinator
Jimmy Askew is an attorney who is licensed in NY and in CA. A graduate of Cardozo School of Law in NYC, he has worked in entertainment and IP law as well as doing litigation support. He currently serves as a Neighborhood Council member in North Hollywood and as a member of Metro's Citizens Advisory Council. Jimmy's father spent 21 years on active duty in the Army Corps of Engineers, including a year in Vietnam, and he spent the first ten years of life as an army brat before settling down in Fairfax County, VA. He's excited to have this opportunity to give back to the veterans who have given so much.
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Ilya Kurbanov
CVJ Worker
Ilya served in the United States Army for 6 years. During that time, he deployed 5 times in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom with 2nd Ranger Battalion, 75th Regiment. Currently, Ilya is studying Business at Pasadena City College and plans on completing his Business Degree at the University of Southern California. He is a member of the Veterans Club at Pasadena City College and the PCC advocate and volunteer for the CJVP. He is passionate about assisting Veteran students and becoming a stellar member of the PCC Community.
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Sean Stone
Project Coordinator
Sean is a Master of Public Policy graduate from the University of Michigan. Prior to earning his Master’s degree Sean worked for the County of L.A 5th District Supervisor and helped implement the annual “Salute to Veterans and their Families”, as well as represented the Supervisor at the monthly L.A. Veterans Collaborative. Sean has two years of legislative affairs experience while with Pete Conaty & Associates, the firm that was responsible for the legislative advocacy of over 800,000 California veterans and eight Veteran Service Organizations across the state. While interning with Pete Conaty, Sean was earning his Bachelor’s of Political Science from the University of California, Davis, which was completed in 2014. Sean is the proud son of a veteran of the United States Navy and also an L.A. native.
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Cleveland Foy
CVJ Worker
Cleveland Foy is an Honorably Discharged Naval Veteran. After transitioning out of the military, Cleveland pursued his bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice at California State University Northridge, CA. Post- Graduation, Cleveland will be attending law school in Southern California and has a vision of his career path focusing on veteran advocacy. During Cleveland’s military journey, he has been challenged with PTSD, physical disabilities, and homelessness. Cleveland wants fellow Veterans to know there are programs and services to assist and looks forward to helping them access these resources.
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Queen Smith
IT Support
Queen is an Information Technology professional with 32 years of experience with the State of California. She held technical, supervisory and management positions. Work assignments included project management, contract management, feasibility studies and post implementation evaluation reports, applications support, database management, systems administration and support, networking, security, web site management, data center management, help desk and desktop support, and customer service. She is a graduate of California State University Los Angeles. She is the daughter and granddaughter of war veterans. She has a passion for helping other people go beyond the ordinary, to stretch out and become more, to do more than they ever dreamed they could do.
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Costa Via
Program Manager
Costa Via is a U.S. Army veteran. He received LLM from Straus Institute of Dispute Resolution, Pepperdine University School of Law in 2015 and since then he was involved in VET2VET, a non-profit educational project dedicated to assist veterans with adjustment to civilian lifestyle and providing assistance in obtaining VA and other available benefits. Through his own journey as a service-connected V.A. patient, Costa derives a strong sense of fulfillment from providing assistance to service members and their families.
In God We Trust: E pluribus Unum!
Sgt Richard Bojorquez "Bojo"is a Navy vet and tireless advocate for Veterans serving over 35 years as a LA Sheriff: Veteran Mental Health Evaluation Team VMET, Veteran Liaison and other significant roles. His deep knowledge, engaged leadership style, empathetic attitude, wisdom and passion he is bringing to CVJP to elevate our project & service to our veterans.
Richard Bojorquez"Bojo"
CVJP Advisor
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Yvette is a combat veteran with over 30 years of leadership as an Army helicopter pilot and a broad spectrum of specialized experience in human resources, logistics, aviation, and operations, culminating her career in the Pentagon. In 2019, she completed her Jurisprudence Degree (JD) from the University of Southern California (USC) and passed the California bar exam in 2020. Yvette served in two non-profit organizations as President & CEO helping veterans facing homelessness and as an Executive Director for Bob Hope USO.
Yvette J Kelley
Program Developer/Manager
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Guy, born in San Francisco and raised in the South Bay, attended the University of California, Berkeley and received a bachelor’s degree in political science. Currently, Guy is a third-year law student at the University of California, Berkeley. He spent his 1L summer working for California State Department of Justice, before accepting a corporate associate position for Fenwick & West. Guy is passionate about protecting veterans and ensuring that they make full use of their rights.
Guy Rotstein CVJP Law Clerk
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I am currently a senior at Cal State Los Angeles. My major is Rehabilitation Services. I was sure of my career objective after completing my "Boots to Books" class last semester. The class focused on veterans and their reintegration into society. I was inspired by the guest speakers who shared about their service and experiences. I am interested in working with the Veteran community in my future. I enjoy cooking and gardening. I look forward to working with you all.
Ekaterini Kate Telles
OCVJP Intern
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Alayah Williams is a senior at California State University of Los Angeles. She is currently majoring in Rehabilitation Services with a certificate in Veteran Services. She's excited to be working with Veterans. She wants to give back to the individuals who selflessly gave up their lives for others. She wants to help improve their lives, help them transition to their next life changes, and help advocate for them. She has realized how selfless, dedicated, and brave they are.
Alayah Williams
CVJP Intern
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May Santiago Ong manages/develops programs, relationships and funding opportunities. Her background is in research, she obtained her bachelor’s degree and PhD from UCLA. She studied health disparities to improve disease outcomes for underserved populations during her tenure at Charles Drew University in south Los Angeles. She grew up in Bataan, Philippines. Her grandfathers served, one as a medic and the other as a cook. She volunteered with CVJP off and on since 2017.
May Santiago Ong
Program Developer/Manager
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Marlee, a student at Cal State LA, will earn a degree in Rehabilitation Services and a certificate in Veteran Services in the spring of 2024. She plans to enroll in a Master of Social Work program in the fall. Her commitment to supporting the Veteran community is rooted in her family's military background and her relationship with her grandfather, a combat Marine who served during the Vietnam War. Marlee hopes to make a difference for Veterans and vulnerable populations.
Marlee Hoy
CVJP Intern
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Scott served almost 42 years in the Department of Navy with 26 years as an active duty Marine Corps officer (retired as a Lieutenant Colonel) and 16 years as a federal employee (GS15). He attended law school while on active duty with a wife and three children helping. As an appellate attorney, Scott argued three prisoner civil cases in front of the 9th Circuit, handled immigration related appeals with the 9th Circuit and the Board of Immigration Appeals, and conducted numerous criminal indigent appeals at the state district and superior court levels.
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Scott Cramer
Volunteer Attorney
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For over 20 years Defense Attorney Mark Rosenfeld has been helping veterans with criminal and Department of Motor Vehicle troubles. He is proud to work alongside CVJP in helping veterans through a difficult and confusing time. Attorney Rosenfeld is on the Board of Governors of the California Attorneys for Criminal Justice, a Specialist Member of the California DUI Lawyers Association, and a State Ambassador and Founding Member of the DUI Defense Lawyers Association. Attorney Rosenfeld is qualified to analyze blood, administer breath tests and has completed the instructor training for the Standardized Field Sobriety Tests. Working with CVJP gives Attorney Rosenfeld a chance to give back, and show his gratitude, to our veterans in their time of need. For more information go to Attorney Rosenfeld’s Video University: https://www.mrduila.com/video-university/
Mark Rosenfeld
Volunteer Attorney
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Casio Shyn is an attorney. Inspired by Vietnam-era Recon Marines he enlisted following 9-11, he prepared and trained for a lateral move into long-range reconnaissance and served in Operation Enduring Freedom. Casio has been in the Intellectual Property licensing business in China since 2007, working with the world's second largest laminate flooring company; and was a Founding Member of Wounded Eagle UAS, a non-profit that trains veterans interested in a career in the UAS industry. In his free time, Casio enjoys volunteering to support veterans and organizations; including regularly providing services for the Community Veteran Justice Project and its clients.
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Casio Shyn
Volunteer Attorney
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Danielle McNeil is originally from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She served honorably in the United States Marine Corp for eight years. She finished a tour of service in California and decided to stay and attend UCLA, where she obtained a degree in Anthropology and a double minor in International Studies and Geography. She has a beautiful thirteen year old daughter who's been diagnosed with Autism. Danielle is a strong advocate for the homeless because she's been there herself. She'd like to be a part of any program that will help our veteran counterparts get back on track. She feels she can be of assistance to veterans who are trying to regain their independence and become productive active participants in society.
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Danielle McNeill
Cvjp Worker
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Pablo Pak is an Army veteran and native of Los Angeles dedicated to advocating for veterans and the armed services community. He founded the Farmers Insurance Veteran and Military diversity group, a program that has been recognized in publications such as Recruit Military and G.I. JOBS. Mr. Pak has also worked as a Student Veteran Work-study participant at El Camino Community College Veterans office and Arizona State University Veterans assistance office. Pablo holds a Bachelor of Science in Economics from Arizona State University, a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from Willamette Law, and is attending USC Gould School of Law for a Master of Laws (LLM) degree. After passing the California bar exam, Mr. Pak hopes to use his legal training to continue his advocacy work and give back to his fellow veterans.
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Pablo Pak
Law Clerk
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Adam Rund is a Marine Corps Veteran who’s lived on multiple continents, traveled to over 30 nations across the globe, and fought for Uncle Sam in one of them. Since separating from active duty, Adam moved to L.A. to pursue academics. He is now a USC Marshall Business undergraduate and a Master of Science in Entrepreneurship & Innovation graduate student. Adam owns VetUp, a government contracting company which provides medical equipment and supplies to the VA Medical Centers. He recently started AirStrike Systems, a company which designs and sells paintball weapon systems to enhance gameplay realism. Adam spends his free time volunteering and providing social media and website support for the Community Veteran Justice Project.
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Adam Rund
Digital Media
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My name is Jose Antonio Marquez,
I am an US Army veteran, father, husband and I sometimes moonlight as a Mariachi musician.
I believe that my experiences and challenges I faced adjusting back into civilian life have
given me the yearning to be of service to my brothers and sisters in arms as a peer.
I am honored to be a part of CVJP.
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Jose Antonio Marquez
Veteran Outreach Coordinator
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Karl Risinger served in the United States Army from 1994-2005 as a Weapons Trainer and Military Police. Never deployed, but took a Government contracting job in Iraq in 2010 because he had to see what his brothers and sisters had been through. Karl moved to Los Angeles in July of 2000 and has been active in the Veteran Community as well as the community around him. He has worked in the entertainment industry and been an event/project manager for several years. He enjoys watching football, playing with his children and being a loving husband.
Karl Risinger
CVJP Worker
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I am Mustafa Mir. I reside in Northern California. I enjoy practicing Jiu Jitsu, staying active, and immersing myself in outdoor activities, such as beach outings or hiking. I attended the University of California, Davis and received a Bachelor of Arts degree. I am a 2L at McGeorge School of Law. I am proud to work alongside the CVJP team contributing to their success while providing for the veterans who have fought for us.
Mustafa Mir
CVJP Law Clerk
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I am currently a J.D. candidate at Southwestern Law School. Previously, I received my B.A. in political science from Point Loma Nazarene University in 2021. After law school, I hope to use my legal skills to contribute to great organizations like the Community Veteran Justice Project. In my free time, I like to golf, read, and workout.
Christian Aguayo
CVJP Law Clerk
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Renee is from Orange County, California. She graduated from the University of California, Los Angeles in Microbiology and Art History. She is a second year juris doctorate student at the McGeorge School of Law in Sacramento, and hopes her legal career will promote community stability through healthcare. Renee is motivated to work with the Community Veteran Justice Project by her treasured friendships with a few active service members.
Renee Crippen
CVJP Law Clerk
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Currently, I am a rising 2L at Southwestern Law School and a UCLA graduate. I graduated UCLA with a major in Sociology and a minor in History which has given me a lot of insight into my legal journey. I am excited about the opportunity to work with the CVJP team and working to give back to our veterans.
Annabel Gholichian
CVJP Law Clerk
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Leo Hekma studies sociology at Cal State University, Long Beach. As a learner, friend, and student organizer he strives to be an active and positive member of his community. Having played in bands since high school, Leo enjoys music and the arts, using them as mediums to bring people together and work towards common goals. He is excited to volunteer with CVJP and hopes to use this valuable experience in his future endeavors.
Leo Hekma
CVJP Volunteer
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David joined the CVJP team in 2024 to further his advocacy for urban policy and community development. He previously served as a fellow in the Mayor's offices in Jackson, MS, and Memphis, TN, focusing on public safety audits, affordable housing, and COVID-19 response. As a Coro Fellow in Los Angeles, he contributed to ballot initiatives and legislation for the creative economy. David holds a BA in Urban Policy from Rhodes College.
David Caddle
Program Developer
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