I'm not in the US, but some people here are. What about working on some open source projects? I don't think that would fall into the danger zone of immigration

I'm not in the US, but some people here are. What about working on some open source projects? I don't think that would fall into the danger zone of immigration law(since you wouldn't be working "for" anyone). Alternatively, maybe a company here can offer you an internship? The visa requirements could be less. Does anyone here know an immigration lawyer that could help this person get out of a bad situation?