Arika E. Sánchez is the Policy Director at NMCLP, where she leads the policy strategy, advocacy efforts, and legislative initiatives to advance social and economic justice. Prior to her role as Policy Director, she led the healthcare team’s efforts to expand and improve access to healthcare for all New Mexicans. From 2015-2023 she successfully advocated for a number of legislative wins alongside young people impacted by the foster care and juvenile justice systems. One major win was the Fostering Connections Act, which allows young people ages 18-21 who age out of the foster care system to access a living stipend, case management, and other important resources to support their transition to adulthood. She previously worked for United Way of Central New Mexico, The Legal Aid Society in New York City, and Volunteer Legal Services Hawaii, and was a volunteer attorney for a legal clinic supporting unhoused residents of Albuquerque. Arika was born and raised in New Mexico, and is the proud mom of three amazing children.