Sandra Madera helps lead Public Counsel’s pro bono programs by connecting volunteer legal professionals with opportunities to support its work. She also works with staff and leadership to strengthen how volunteers are recruited, trained, and supported across the organization. She builds partnerships with law firms, law schools, and corporate legal departments, and oversees key initiatives including Public Counsel’s summer internship program, the organization’s ENCORE program for retired volunteers, and engagement with its Leadership Council. She also participates in statewide pro bono collaborations and supports organization-wide efforts to advance and sustain Public Counsel’s impact.
Sandra is passionate about this work because she has seen firsthand what happens when people do not receive the help and support they need. Her commitment is shaped by the experiences of close family members, whose lives were deeply affected by systems that too often punish trauma rather than respond with care, especially for young people of color. Those experiences made the injustice of these systems impossible to ignore and continue to fuel her belief in the role we each play in making them more just, humane, and accountable—and ultimately led her to the work she does today.
Before joining Public Counsel, Sandra worked in communications at OneLegacy, where she wrote and edited newsletters and other communications, managed social media, and helped coordinate major public education and community events.
Sandra earned her B.A. in English from California State University, Los Angeles, and is fluent in Spanish. Outside of work, she enjoys Pilates, dancing, exploring Los Angeles, and traveling.
