The Judicial Branch of Arizona in Maricopa County recognized on March 9 the contributions of Providing Access to Court Services (PACS) AmeriCorps members during National AmeriCorps Week, which runs from March 9 to 13. The recognition highlights the role these members play in assisting self-represented litigants at all four Law Library Resource Center locations throughout Maricopa County.
The work of PACS AmeriCorps members is important because it helps community members navigate the legal system, especially those who do not have legal representation. By providing guidance and support, these volunteers help ensure that more people can access justice and understand courtroom processes.
From August 2025 through January 2026, PACS AmeriCorps members logged more than 20,400 interactions with community members across all Law Library Resource Center locations. They completed over 650 translations, personally escorted more than 580 individuals through the courthouse, and contributed more than 7,400 in-person service hours since the start of the grant year.
“My culture and academics have impassioned me to take action and ignite change in my community, whether that be in the Philippines or here in Maricopa County,” said PACS AmeriCorps member Ryleigh Mangundayao. “When I am helping self-represented litigants, I want to make them feel heard and supported during a time in their life that is at the lowest of the lows. Showing empathy and compassion to people who are asking for my help has been a highlight of this role.”
PACS AmeriCorps Program Manager Sonia Marquez said, “Members play a critical role in providing access to justice by providing correct information, timely assistance, and respectful service. They help bridge gaps for self-represented litigants by educating them on court forms and processes and providing available resources. Their help reduces the barriers that may otherwise prevent individuals from navigating the court system. By assisting with escorts, translations, scribing court forms, and explaining court processes, they help reduce confusion and anxiety for court users.”
AmeriCorps service also offers career development opportunities for its participants. “Serving as an AmeriCorps member has helped me discover my true passion for the criminal justice field,” said PACS AmeriCorps member Sydney Whittal. “During my first two years of college, I struggled to choose a major that felt right, but through my AmeriCorps service thus far, I’ve realized this is where I belong. The experience has helped me better understand myself and strengthened my commitment to pursuing a career in this field.”
Throughout their term of service, PACS AmeriCorps members receive a living allowance and earn an education award upon successful completion of the program. The program is funded by an agreement with the Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family.
More information about Providing Access to Court Services (PACS) AmeriCorps can be found at https://superiorcourt.maricopa.gov/llrc/americorps/.
