Seven exceptional leaders will also receive Encuentro’s Tree of Life Award—a meaningful recognition that honors individuals whose leadership plants seeds of transformation, nurtures growth, and is deeply rooted in the vitality and futureof our community. Together, they represent the interconnected strength that sustains Encuentro’s mission and the Latinx immigrant community.

Join us for this special celebration!

More details about our honorees and sponsorship opportunities will be shared soon. The RSVP site will open in early February.

The post Mark Your Calendar: Tree of Life Honoree Luncheon 2026 appeared first on Encuentro Nuevo Mexico.

En un esfuerzo por resaltar las voces y recursos que fortalecen a nuestra comunidad, el equipo de periodismo comunitario TVD tuvo el honor de conversar con el equipo de Hipocampo, una organización con sede en Albuquerque dedicada a ofrecer servicios de salud mental accesibles y culturalmente sensibles a nuestras comunidades inmigrantes y latinas.

Durante la entrevista, representantes de Hipocampo compartieron su compromiso profundo con el bienestar emocional de las personas a las que sirven. En un clima político donde muchas de nuestras familias enfrentan incertidumbre, discriminación y miedo, cuidar nuestra salud mental no es un lujo—es una necesidad urgente. Hipocampo entiende que el estrés constante, la ansiedad y los traumas no resueltos afectan profundamente nuestra calidad de vida y nuestras relaciones familiares, laborales y comunitarias.

A través de terapia individual, grupos de apoyo, talleres y espacios seguros para conversar, Hipocampo se ha convertido en un recurso vital para quienes muchas veces no encuentran servicios accesibles ni en su idioma ni en su cultura. Su enfoque integrador reconoce la complejidad de las experiencias migratorias y busca sanar desde la raíz, con empatía y respeto.

Esta entrevista no solo dio visibilidad al trabajo esencial de Hipocampo, sino que también reafirmó la importancia de hablar abiertamente sobre la salud mental. En tiempos difíciles, reconocer nuestras emociones, buscar ayuda y apoyarnos como comunidad es un acto de resistencia y cuidado colectivo.

As part of our commitment to uplifting community voices and highlighting vital local resources, the TVD community journalism team had the honor of sitting down with the team from Hipocampo, a mental health organization based in Albuquerque that offers low-cost, culturally responsive services to immigrant and Latinx communities.

During the interview, Hipocampo staff shared their deep dedication to supporting the emotional well-being of those they serve. In today’s political climate—where many families live with fear, discrimination, and uncertainty—taking care of our mental health is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Chronic stress, anxiety, and unresolved trauma have a profound impact on our lives, affecting everything from our family relationships to our work and sense of belonging.

Through individual therapy, support groups, workshops, and safe community spaces, Hipocampo has become a vital source of care for people who often struggle to find accessible, culturally and linguistically appropriate mental health services. Their holistic approach recognizes the layered experiences of migration and aims to foster healing from the root, with empathy and cultural understanding.

This interview not only shed light on the essential work Hipocampo is doing, but also reminded us of how critical it is to talk openly about mental health. In challenging times, acknowledging our emotions, reaching out for help, and caring for one another as a community are powerful acts of resistance and collective healing.

The post Hablemos sobre Salud Mental con Hipocampo appeared first on Encuentro Nuevo Mexico.

Recognizing Champions of the Latinx Immigrant Community!

April 4, 2025
11:30-1:30
National Hispanic Cultural Center
1701 4th Street SW, Albuquerque

 
Join us on April 4, 2025, for Encuentro’s annual Tree of Life Award Ceremony, where we will honor six extraordinary leaders and organizations who have made a significant impact on our Latinx immigrant community. This event celebrates those who plant seeds of hope, nurture growth, and demonstrate transformative leadership, collaboration, and advocacy. Each Tree of Life Award symbolizes the vital role they play in fostering community vitality!

As we honor these incredible individuals, we invite you to support Encuentro’s mission by becoming a sponsor. Your contributions will directly fund initiatives that empower and uplift our community, providing essential resources for education and advocacy.

Sponsorship Opportunities Awaits!

Roots $1,000
Table Sponsorship

Reserved table for 8 with lunch, champagne toast,
and a framed acknowledgement.

Sprouts $2,500
Spotlight Sponsorship

Includes Roots plus a verbal acknowledgement
during the event and your logo on event material.

Saplings $5,000
Host Sponsorship

Includes Sprouts plus a spotlight on our website
and social media highlight.

Trees $10,000
Title Sponsorship

Includes above plus an additional reserved table of 8,
your logo on Encuentro’s website for one year, and
inclusion in press release and in-kind media coverage.

Limited Sponsorship available!

Are you ready to honor CHAMPIONS?

Contact Joseline Mendoza at joseline@encuentronm.org or call (505) 247-2920

The post Become Our Tree of Life Honoree Luncheon event Sponsor! appeared first on Encuentro Nuevo Mexico.

Cientos de estudiantes inmigrantes adultos se congregan para conmemorar este hito significativo, reflejando con orgullo el arduo trabajo y la dedicación que han invertido. Equilibrar múltiples empleos, responsabilidades familiares y otros compromisos puede ser una tarea abrumadora, pero nuestros estudiantes enfrentan este desafío con valentía, abordando su educación con una notable determinación y una resiliencia admirable.

Este momento de celebración está impregnado de risas, aromas de exquisitas comidas y recuerdos entrañables, que se entrelazan en los viajes colectivos hacia futuros más prometedores.

¡Cada celebración de clase es un testimonio de la iniciativa y las infinitas posibilidades que nos esperan!

In December, Encuentro transforms into a vibrant celebration of achievement and perseverance. When the semester draws to a close, our one-semester courses hold their graduations, and all of the other courses gather together to acknowledge the achievements of the fall semester.

Hundreds of adult immigrant students come together to mark this special milestone, proudly showcasing their hard work and dedication. Balancing multiple jobs, family obligations, and other commitments is no easy task, yet our students rise to meet the challenge, embracing their education with determination and remarkable resilience.

This joyous time is filled with laughter, the aromas of delicious foods, and cherished memories reflected through collective journeys toward brighter futures.

Each class celebration is a testament to the initiative and boundless possibilities ahead!

Ho Ho Ho Highlights!/ Momentos destacados del fin de semestre

Alma Alvarado se graduó  de nuestra clase de Periodismo Comunitario y presentó su impactante proyecto final sobre la importancia de transformar las narrativas comunitarias. Este momento fue significativo para Alma, ya que fue tanto su primera experiencia en hablar en público como un desafío que mostró su talento como una emergente periodista comunitaria.

Alma Alvarado proudly graduated from our Community Journalism class. She presented her impactful final project on the importance of transforming community narratives. This moment was significant for Alma, as it was both her first public speaking experience and a challenge that showcased her talents as a rising community journalist.

“Esta capacitación me ha dado el valor no solo para hablar frente a las personas, sino que también me ha ayudado a mejorar mis relaciones interpersonales a través de una comunicación efectiva,” comentó Alma.

“This training has given me the courage not only to speak in front of people but has also supported me in improving my interpersonal relationships through effective communication,” said Alma.

Momento de orgullo: Nuestras clases de pequeños negocios asi como de finanzas recibieron sus certificaods de fin de curso con gran orgullo y emoción!/ Proud Moment: Our small business and financial literacy students received their end-of-course certificates with great pride!

Aplaudiendo logros: Nuestros estudiantes aplaudian y celebraban a cada compañero que recibia su certificado, compartiendo asi la alegria del aprendizaje colectivo// Applauding Accomplishments: Our students enthusiastically encourage their classmates, sharing the joy of celebrating significant milestones.

Una imagen dice mas que mil palabras: El orgulloso esposo de nuestro estudiantes Angelica Gonzalez, orgulloso grabó la presentación del proyecto final de sus esposa quien compartio su reportaje en derechos laborales / Images speak louder than words: A proud husband records his wife’s first public presentation. Angelica Gonzalez’s spoke about labor rights and the importance of self- advocacy.

Sabores que conectan: Comida y comunidad son elementos centrales de las celebraciones de fin de semestre. En cada convivio podemos saborear una variedade de deliciosos platillos caseros de diferentes lugares resaltando la diversidad de nuestros estudiantes// Flavor and Connection: Food and community are central to Encuentro’s celebrations. Each potluck features an array of delicious homemade dishes that highlight the amazing diversity of our community.

El Poder de los Aliados y la Comunidad: Aliados angloparlantes  y estudiantes inmigrantes latinx se unen, generando conexiones, compartiendo crecimiento y el poder transformador del idioma y la comunidad. Juntos, reuniones como esta, son vitales para desmantelar narrativas falsas sobre nuestra comunidad inmigrante y reemplazar estereotipos con relaciones auténticas y relatos de resiliencia, fortaleza y unidad// The Power of Allies and Community: English-speaking allies and Latinx immigrant students unite, sparking connections, sharing growth, and the transformative power of language and community. Together gatherings such as this, are vital for breaking down false narratives about our immigrant community and replacing stereotypes with authentic relationships and stories of resilience, strength, and unity.

The post It’s a Wrap . . . Celebrating the end of Semester!/ iCelebrando el fin de semestre! appeared first on Encuentro Nuevo Mexico.

Nuevo México tiene una rica tradición como lugar de bienvenida y seguridad para los inmigrantes, y Encuentro está comprometido a mantener vivo ese espíritu para ustedes, sus familias y las generaciones futuras. Sin importar los cambios que puedan ocurrir a nivel nacional, nuestro trabajo conjunto seguirá siendo una fuente de seguridad, empoderamiento y oportunidad. Sus esperanzas y aspiraciones son el corazón de nuestra misión, y nuestro compromiso de ayudarles a prosperar es inquebrantable.

Estamos monitoreando de cerca cualquier cambio de política que pudiera afectar el bienestar de nuestra comunidad. Nuestro equipo está aquí para asegurar que tengan acceso a los recursos, servicios y apoyo que necesiten. Más que nunca, estamos comprometidos a brindar un lugar seguro y acogedor donde se escuche su voz y se prioricen sus necesidades. Si se presentan nuevos desafíos o preocupaciones, los invitamos a acercarse y comunicárnoslo.

Trabajando juntos, podemos mantenernos atentos asus necesidades, abogar por ustedes y adaptar nuestros programas para apoyarles en todo lo posible. La misión de Encuentro siempre ha sido servir y elevar a la comunidad inmigrante de Nuevo México. Continuaremos este trabajo con orgullo y dedicación, sabiendo que juntos estamos construyendo un Nuevo México más fuerte e inclusivo, donde todos puedansentirse seguros, apoyados y empoderados.

Gracias por ser parte de la familia de Encuentro. Estamos aquí para ustedes, hoy y siempre,

Dalia Medina-Bustillos
Directora de Encuentro

Dear Friends,

As an immigrant and a DACA recipient, I want to share that recent developments in the national political landscape have given me, like many of you, much to reflect on. It has taken me a few days to regroup, as I know that, for so many of us, these changes come
with a wave of uncertainty. In times like these, I am reminded of why Encuentro exists and why our work is so vital. Our mission to support, uplift, and empower the immigrant community in New Mexico has never been more essential.

New Mexico has a rich tradition as a place of welcome and safety for immigrants, and Encuentro is committed to carrying that spirit forward for you, your families, and future generations. No matter what changes may come at the national level, our work together
will continue to be a source of security, empowerment, and opportunity. Your hopes and aspirations are the heart of our mission, and our commitment to helping you thrive is unwavering.

We are closely monitoring any policy changes that might impact the well-being of our community. Our team is here to ensure that you have access to the resources, services, and support that you need. More than ever, we are committed to providing a safe and welcoming place where your voice is heard, and your needs are prioritized. If you experience new challenges or concerns, we invite you to reach out and let us know. By working together, we can stay responsive to your needs, advocate on your behalf, and adapt our programs to support you in every way we can.

Encuentro’s mission has always been to serve and uplift New Mexico’s immigrant community. We will continue this work with pride and dedication, knowing that together, we are building a stronger, more inclusive New Mexico where everyone can feel secure,
supported, and empowered.

Thank you for being a part of the Encuentro family. We are here for you now and always.

Dalia Medina Bustillos
Executive Director

The post Reafirmando Nuestro Compromiso en Tiempos de Cambio//Reaffirming Our Commitment to the Latinx Immigrant Community in Times of Change appeared first on Encuentro Nuevo Mexico.

When we attend a conference, we embark on a transformative journey. We dive into the latest knowledge, ideas, and perspectives, and build connections with fellow leaders. This sparks new possibilities and fosters collaborations that amplify our impact and drive meaningful change.

With each conference we nurture both personal and professional growth!

Explore some of the recent conferences attended by Encuentro leaders in the past weeks:

UnidosUS Annual Conference:

Normas Casas, Encuentro’s Community Health Worker and Veronica Salazar, Digital Equity Manager, joined 2024 UnidosUs Annual Conference “Our Time is Now” Conference

UnidosUS, the nation’s largest Latino-centered civil rights organization in the USA, kicked off its annual convention on Las Vegas Nevada on Monday, July 15. Gathering more of 1,500 Latinos leaders, advocates and allies, UnidosUS Annual Conference: “Our Time is now! centered around November’s elections and the crucial Latino vote that could swing them.

HIP Conference 2024,
Corazon y Poder: Unleashing our Power:

Held on June 20-21 at Chicago, Illinios, this years Hispanics in the Philanthropy  conference was designed to amplify the collective spirit of our community by fostering connections among leaders from foundations, corporations, and nonprofits. By intersecting collective liberation, leadership, storytelling, music and art, they aim to inspire transformative relationships that drive meaningful change.

The two-day sessions focused on showcasing the initiatives and approaches of a growing network of leaders, organizations, and allies dedicated to collective learning and collaboration. Encuentro’s leaders delved into meaningful discussions about how organizations are mobilizing resources to amplify grassroots innovation and drive towards social justice, as well as identifying opportunities for strategic impact investing. The conversations also explored critical topics such as fueling social movements, advancing Latinx representation, and re framing the Latinx narrative.

Ilse Grijalva, Encuentro’s Communications Manager, attended the 2024 HIP Conference, participating in sessions that explored reframing the Latinx narrative and promoting positive representation.

Julia Cusatis, Director of Development, and Teresa Guevara, Director of Educational Programs, represented Encuentro at the 2024 HIP Conference, participating in a range of sessions focused on fundraising strategies and the power of education.

2024 Elevate Initiative National Convening

On June 4th, the 2024 Elevate Initiative National Convention took place in Atlanta, GA. Encuentro’s Home Health Aide program leaders, Brook Bernini, Rosalina Lopez, and Executive Director Dalia Medina,  participated in educational sessions focused on advancing racial and economic justice, gaining valuable knowledge and insights.

During the convention, they also took part in city tours to learn more about innovative initiatives and grassroots efforts being undertaken by other organizations and individuals. This immersive experience provided them with unique perspectives and insights to inform their work and potentially inspire future collaborations.

Encuentro’s Home Health Aide team, connecting with leaders from all over the nation during the 2024 Elevate Initiative National Convening in Atlanta, GA.

The post Professional Development On The go: Encuentros Leaders’ Cross-Country Conference Travel! appeared first on Encuentro Nuevo Mexico.