YPC - The Greater Des Moines Partnership's Young Professionals Connection - Jessica Taylor Erwin

Member Since:

January 22, 2009

Staff Attorney

 I am a Staff Attorney with the Equal Justice Project ofIowa Legal Aid. The Equal Justice Project is a specialized domestic abuse initiative of Iowa Legal Aid with two applied components, strategic advocacy and research. The advocacy efforts target obstacles to safety and autonomy for victims of abuse. In addition to addressing substantive issues that victims encounter, the attorneys in the Project tailor services to meet the unique needs faced by rural, urban, and immigrant victim populations. The research goal is to better understand the impact and efficacy of civil legal services in breaking the cycle of domestic violence. Specifically, the objectives of the research are to examine and analyze the outcomes of legal services to victims of abuse, and determine which services contribute most effectively to a victim’s autonomy and safety. Those results will be developed into a best practices approach to services for Iowa Legal Aid, to ensure resources are directed toward proven outcomes.

I volunteer on the Science Center of Iowa's Event Committee. My husband and I volunteer with Mentor Iowa as mentors for siblings, a seven year-old boy and an eight year-old girl. I am a member of the Polk County Women Attorneys and the Iowa Organization of Women Attorneys.

I'm new to YPC this year, but last year I participated in a YPC bowling league on a team with other attorneys, cleverly calling ourselves "Motion to Strike." I decided to join YPC as a way to be more involved in the professional community and to meet people who work in other fields. 

I enjoy meeting up with friends for drinks and checking out new bars and restaurants. I love seeing movies, especially at the Fleur Cinema. In the summer, I enjoy the Farmers' Market and the festivals like 80/35 and the Art Festival. I'm often at the dog park with my two dogs.

 I am always up for trying something new. I have taken a number of continuing education classes with friends through the Des Moines Public Schools, including Sewing, Bosnian, Tap Dance, Woodcarving, Fruit and Vegetable Garnishes and How to Write a Romance Novel.