Emily Diaz-Torres founded the Macomb Immigrant Service Center (MISC) to address the critical gap in support services for Macomb County’s growing immigrant population. While serving as president of the Hispanic Coalition of Macomb, she observed that new arrivals often struggled with basic tasks, such as scheduling doctor appointments or navigating public transportation.

In 2009, with the help of a volunteer board, Emily rented a building and opened the center. While it initially focused on the Hispanic community, the MISC quickly expanded. Today, it supports individuals from around the globe, including Albania, Germany, Pakistan and Taiwan.

“Our mission is to help all immigrants from all cultures – not only those newly arriving, but also those who have been here and still need guidance,” said Emily.

The MISC provides a wide range of services, including government application assistance, immigration legal aid, notary and translation services, medical and legal interpretation, tax preparation, and English and citizenship classes. Emily is also a fully accredited representative, which is a non-attorney, authorized by the U.S. Department of Justice to represent clients in immigration matters.

The center’s impact has been powerful. One story that stands out is a young woman who came to the U.S. alone at 18 for dialysis treatment. With no family support, she couldn’t qualify for a kidney transplant. Emily mobilized volunteers to create a care team, helped get the young woman on a transplant list and eventually ensured she received the surgery she so desperately needed. Emily even helped provide round-the-clock support post-surgery.

“It was a success story,” said Emily. “We have many of those.”

The center currently serves 100 to 150 individuals annually, often those who are unable to afford legal representation. Yet challenges persist.

“We’re seeing massive deportations, so more people are rushing to complete their paperwork and stabilize their lives here,” Emily explained.

Despite having only three full-time staff members, the MISC is working diligently to meet this growing demand. The organization is also seeking additional operating funds to help sustain its work. Notably, Emily has volunteered at the center for 15 years and has never accepted a salary.

“We charge the lowest possible fees to our clients and still barely manage to keep our doors open at times,” she said.

Advancing Macomb has supported the MISC through networking, outreach and connections to potential funders.

“Advancing Macomb is helping nonprofits grow together,” Emily added. “The diversity here in Macomb County is a strength. Immigrants bring economic vitality; without them, the county would suffer.”

In addition to her advocacy work, Emily is proud of mentoring young volunteers. Many have gone on to become fully accredited immigration representatives themselves or to pursue careers in law.

For more information about how to support the Macomb Immigrant Service Center, contact Emily Diaz-Torres at (586) 484-9038 or visit www.miscservices.org.