For our December 2024 Volunteer Spotlight, we are excited to highlight Cory Johnson. Cory recently helped recover $7,000 in food stamp back pay for one of our clients, and we think that’s pretty fantastic! Read on to learn a little more about Cory!
Q1: Why did you choose to volunteer with ALSC?
I’ve always been an advocate for my community, but would get frustrated when I could only go so far when issues with food security, housing, etc. entered legal territory. I learned about the Community Justice Worker program and jumped at the chance to further my education to be better equipped and credentialed to be a stronger advocate. It’s a very unique program nationally I am honored to serve with.
Q2: What are some of your experiences with ALSC that have made a positive difference in the lives of others and/or the community?
My clients are hard-working members of our community doing their best to provide for their families. They complete all their recertification requirements on time to continue receiving SNAP benefits but the state is delayed in processing the paperwork and the family’s assistance can lapse. When they contact ALSC and I have the opportunity to advocate for them, we often get back thousands of dollars for them to be able to buy nutritious groceries for themselves and often children and elderly dependents again.
Q3: How do you think your experiences with ALSC will benefit the community in the future?
I hope the state officers, community members, and I have all learned from each other. I recently noticed a policy change in the state’s procedural handbook after I appealed their decision based on outdated income calculation methods. I appreciated their reconsideration and am grateful our experience will make it easier for future low-income Alaskans to receive the support they deserve.
Q4: What do you do when you are not volunteering with ALSC?
I listen to a lot of folk music, get outside on a hike or bike or float, tend to organic gardens, read and meditate, and savor my friends’ cooking and jokes in our intentional community. Professionally, I press for environmental justice with Alaska Community Action on Toxics and Jesuit Volunteer Corps Northwest.
