Thank you for joining us in building an unforgettable moment of hope, unity, and collective POWER!

Encuentro’s Second Annual Tree of Life Honoree Luncheon brought together over 300 community members—elected officials, activists, leaders, allies, donors, volunteers, and funders—to celebrate seven champions of the Latinx immigrant community.

Held at the National Hispanic Cultural Center, the event was a powerful reminder of the strength, resilience, and unity that drive Encuentro’s mission forward.

HERE IS WHAT MADE THIS EVENT TRULY MEMORABLE!

“Los Trinos”, the talented duet of Chuy Martinez & Otilio Ruiz, brought warmth and joy to the luncheon with their beautiful live music.

Poet and activist Demetria Martinez moved the room with a powerful reading of her poem “Borders”, weaving words that speak to the heart of our community’s struggle and hope.

DOLORES HUERTA WAS IN THE HOUSE!

We were honored to welcome the legendary Dolores Huerta as our special guest. She made a powerful entrance, accompanied by mariachi San Jose from Albuquerque High School, and delivered an inspiring message that moved the entire room—reminding us all that “¡Sí se puede!” lives on in our daily fight for justice and equity.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR HONOREES!

Maria Martinez Sanchez
ACLU-NM, Legal Director
SEEDS OF CHANGE HONOREE

Patricia Bonilla
Former teacher & Current volunteer at Encuentro
BRANCHES OF UNITY HONOREE

Comcast
Digital Equity
FRUITS OF GENEROSITY HONOREE

Rachel LaZar
Director of El Centro de Igualdad y Derechos
BLOSSOM OF INNOVATION HONOREE

Juan Abeyta
Community Advocate
LEAVES OF SERVICE HONOREE

The Anderson Charitable Foundation
Capacity Building
FRUITS OF GENEROSITY

Claudia Medina
Community Advocate
ROOTS OF RESILIENCE HONOREE

EVENT SPONSORS

Thanks to our Tree of Life Honoree Luncheon sponsors for their partnership and commitment to adult education…

                                                                                                                      iSigamos fortaleciendo a nuestra comunidad juntos!

Eduardo Martínez, Encuentro’s Board President, shared an inspiring vision for Encuentro’s future—one rooted in growth, collective strength, and continued commitment to our Latinx immigrant community.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all who made this event a success. Their energy, dedication, and teamwork brought the event to life!