NVRDC welcomes two new VLNDC staff members! Meet Matt Ponder, one of our new VLN Navigators!
Before we begin, what does a VLNDC Navigator do?
The role of the VLN Navigator is to guide a crime victim through the process of obtaining civil legal assistance. The Navigator listens to the client's story, helps them identify their legal need, and (if necessary) translates the client's goals into legal matters. For example, a navigator can identify that there’s a crime victims’ rights matter involved when a client is frustrated when the prosecutor assigned to their criminal case didn't notify the client of a hearing. The Navigator then identifies the best fit member organization for each of the client's legal needs, taking into account the area of law, the members' eligibility requirements, the members' capacity to take on new clients, and the client's preferences. The Navigator repeats this process until every one of the client's legal needs have been matched with an attorney or the Navigator has exhausted all in-network options. In that case, the Navigator will provide out-of-network referrals or pro se resources. All of this is done through a single call and managed on VLN's secure, online portal.
To learn more about VLNDC and to access services, visit www.vlndc.org
Matt Ponder, VLNDC Navigator (He/His/Him)
Why did you decide to join VLNDC?
Matt: I decided to join VLNDC through being placed by Lutheran Volunteer Corps. VLN is a wonderful way for me to combine my passion for advocating for survivors of trauma in my previous work as a hospital chaplain, while also learning new skills in identifying legal needs.
What part of your new navigator role are you most excited about?
Matt: I am energized to talk to survivors as the first person they encounter from VLN and being able to witness to survivor's stories. From my experience, I believe the first and most central aspect of survivor-defined justice is for survivor's voices to be heard. I'm so grateful to be able to empower survivor's through this first step as I serve as a Navigator.
What drew you to this work?
Matt: Before VLNDC, I worked as a hospital chaplain working in crisis intervention and emotional support to families and individuals who experienced trauma. Through this work, I was aware of trauma-informed care in a medical context, but had never thought of trauma-informed lawyering. Now, after beginning to work on the legal side, I feel I have such a wider array of skills in supporting survivors of trauma than I had previously. My hope is that my experience at VLNDC will continue to strengthen my skills to support survivors.
What do you do for self-care?
Matt: My most important self-care is done through yoga. I find yoga not only helps me process my day, but also strengthens my overall well-being: body, mind, and spirit. I also find solace in tending to my (overabundance) of houseplants, listening to Soul/R&B, and playing with my retired racing greyhound, Esther.
What is the most rewarding aspect of working with survivors?
Matt: In addition to what I said in #2, I would add that I find satisfaction in accompanying survivors in navigating the criminal legal system and connecting them with the legal aid they need.
What is keeping you happy/motivated during this pandemic?
Matt: Since the pandemic started, cooking has become a major way I feel connected to others. I've learned a ton of new culinary techniques and recipes and often drop off food to my friends. I've especially enjoyed learning about vegan cooking!