April Highlights

In April, our community came together, highlighting the energy and connections at the core of Encuentro’s programs.

Students, staff, and allies engaged in virtual classrooms and in-person gatherings, supporting one another in learning and connection.

This month’s Student Project Presentations reinforce what makes Encuentro special—community gatherings, confidence-building education, joyful moments, and a shared sense of unity.

Spirit Week!

From PJ Day to Filter Day, our community showed and gathered together in fun and wacky ways to celebrate Spirit Week.

All week long, our virtual classrooms were filled with creativity, laughter, and Encuentro pride as community members showed up fully as themselves and deepened their sense of belonging.

Student Project Presentations

April is a very special time at Encuentro! Students showcase their learning through presentations, games, storytelling, songs, and performances. This year, most classes met online and the Spanish for Solidarity class gathered in person. All students brought creativity, energy and fun as they engaged their audiences in all they learned this academic year.

Ice Cream Social

I Scream . . . You Scream . . . We all Scream for Ice Cream! Our families really showed their Encuentro spirit by completing Spirit week at a local paletería. We gathered – young and old – to connect, build relationships, and share simple joys – through conversation, laughter and delicious treats.

Thank you to all the families who joined us and made this gathering so special

Honrando a Larry Moore
July 22, 1948 – November 21, 2024

Celebrating the life of our beloved Larry Moore. On April 18, family and friends came together to honor the lasting memory of Larry Moore, a veteran ESL teacher who touched many lives, at Encuentro and beyond, through his unique approach to teaching – melding music and song.

Although he is missed, he is fondly remembered for his powerful legacy of joy and inspiration and the lasting impact he had on language learning in our community.

The post From Spirit Week to Student Showcases – April Highlights appeared first on Encuentro Nuevo Mexico.

Albuquerque, NM – 18 de junio de 2025 – Encuentro se enorgullece de haber estado en solidaridad con nuestra organización hermana, El CENTRO de Igualdad y Derechos, y con una amplia coalición de aliades durante una poderosa conferencia de prensa en la que se condenaron la retórica dañina y las políticas dirigidas a criminalizar a las comunidades inmigrantes.

El evento reunió a organizaciones dirigidas por inmigrantes y al servicio de inmigrantes, líderes comunitarios, funcionarios electos —incluyendo al alcalde Tim Keller y al presidente de la Cámara de Representantes de Nuevo México, Javier Martínez— líderes religiosos, educadores y defensores de la seguridad pública y las libertades civiles. Juntos, alzaron una voz unificada en contra del resurgimiento de amenazas de deportaciones masivas, el aumento de la actividad de ICE en Nuevo México y la erosión de las protecciones constitucionales para las familias inmigrantes.

En Encuentro, trabajamos todos los días con personas adultas inmigrantes que se esfuerzan por construir un mejor futuro para ellas y sus familias a través de la educación y el desarrollo profesional. Somos testigos directos de la fortaleza, resiliencia y las valiosas contribuciones que las personas inmigrantes aportan a nuestras comunidades y a nuestra economía. La idea de una deportación masiva no solo representa una crisis moral y humanitaria: es un ataque directo a las mismas personas que sostienen sectores vitales de la fuerza laboral en Nuevo México.

Las personas inmigrantes en Nuevo México son esenciales para la salud y prosperidad de nuestro estado. Impulsan industrias clave como la construcción, la hospitalidad, el cuidado de personas mayores y menores, la agricultura y la energía. Son propietarias de pequeños negocios, madres, padres y contribuyentes—miembros fundamentales de nuestras comunidades. Según la ACLU de Nuevo México, las contribuciones de las personas inmigrantes superan los $1.4 mil millones en impuestos federales, estatales y locales, fondos que sostienen nuestras escuelas públicas, hospitales, carreteras y otros servicios esenciales.

Desde Encuentro, hacemos eco del llamado a proteger las políticas locales que resguardan a nuestras comunidades inmigrantes, asegurando que las fuerzas del orden locales no sean utilizadas como una extensión de las agencias federales de inmigración. Estas políticas reflejan nuestros valores compartidos de dignidad, equidad e inclusión—y deben ser preservadas.

Durante la conferencia de prensa, el presidente de la Cámara de Representantes de Nuevo México, Javier Martínez, enfatizó que “este no es el momento de darle la espalda a nuestras comunidades. Debemos alzar la voz por nuestras vecinas y vecinos, quienes rezan con nosotros, se sientan a nuestro lado en los juegos de la liga infantil y trabajan en todos los rincones de nuestro estado. Lo que Trump está haciendo no es reformar el sistema migratorio, es violar el debido proceso y vilipendiar a nuestra gente por el color de su piel y el idioma que hablan. Haremos todo lo que esté en nuestras manos para seguir protegiendo a nuestras comunidades y denunciar esta injusticia.” También reafirmó el compromiso histórico del estado con políticas que protegen los derechos y la dignidad de las familias inmigrantes, y subrayó el papel fundamental que estas comunidades desempeñan en la estructura cultural y económica de Nuevo México.

El alcalde Tim Keller compartió este sentimiento, reafirmando la postura de Albuquerque como una ciudad acogedora: “Nuestras comunidades son más seguras cuando todas las personas se sienten con la confianza de reportar un crimen, pedir ayuda o buscar servicios. Ningún empleado municipal, incluyendo la policía, tiene permitido preguntar por el estatus migratorio o registrarlo. Esa es nuestra política, y está basada en la creencia de que las personas inmigrantes fortalecen nuestra ciudad todos los días.”

Otras personas oradoras, incluyendo representantes de la ACLU de Nuevo México, el Centro de Leyes para Inmigrantes de Nuevo México (NMILC) y la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Nuevo México, condenaron la persecución de inmigrantes como una táctica política y llamaron a la unidad para defender los derechos humanos fundamentales. Recordaron al público que el debido proceso, la igualdad ante la ley y la dignidad humana no son opcionales—son garantías constitucionales. “Si no quieren personas indocumentadas en el país, ¡documentenlas!” agregó Allen Sánchez, director ejecutivo de la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de Nuevo México.

Encuentro se sintió orgulloso de estar presente en esta muestra colectiva de fuerza y solidaridad. Ante la amenaza de un aumento en la actividad de ICE, seguimos en alerta y firmemente comprometidos a proteger a las familias que servimos—muchas de las cuales son el corazón de la economía y la vida comunitaria de Nuevo México. Hacemos un llamado a nuestras aliadas, aliades, simpatizantes y vecinas y vecinos a unirse a nosotras en esta lucha por la justicia, y a seguir construyendo un futuro en el que toda persona—sin importar su estatus migratorio—pueda vivir con seguridad, oportunidades y dignidad.

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Albuquerque, NM – June 18, 2025 – Encuentro proudly stood in solidarity with our sister organization, El CENTRO de Igualdad y Derechos, and a broad coalition of allies during a powerful press conference condemning the harmful rhetoric and policies aimed at criminalizing immigrant communities.

The event brought together immigrant-led and immigrant-serving organizations, community leaders, elected officials—including Mayor Tim Keller and Speaker of the New Mexico House Javier Martinez—faith leaders, educators, and advocates for public safety and civil liberties. Together, they raised a unified voice against the resurgence of mass deportation threats, increased ICE activity in New Mexico, and the erosion of constitutional protections for immigrant families.

At Encuentro, we work every day with immigrant adults striving to build a better future for themselves and their families through education and career development. We see firsthand the strength, resilience, and contributions immigrants make to our communities and economy. The notion of mass deportation is not only a moral and humanitarian crisis—it is a direct attack on the very individuals who sustain vital sectors of New Mexico’s workforce.

Immigrants in New Mexico are vital to the health and prosperity of our state. They power key industries such as construction, hospitality, caregiving, agriculture, and energy. They are small business owners, parents, and taxpayers—integral members of our communities. According to the ACLU of New Mexico, immigrant contributions amount to over $1.4 billion in federal, state, and local taxes, funding our public schools, hospitals, roads, and other essential services.

Encuentro echoes the call to uphold local policies that protect immigrant communities by ensuring that local law enforcement is not used as an extension of federal immigration enforcement. These policies reflect our shared values of dignity, fairness, and inclusion—and they must be safeguarded.

During the press conference, Speaker of the New Mexico House of Representatives Javier Martinez emphasized that “Now is not the time to turn our back on our communities. We must stand up for our neighbors, who pray with us, sit next to us at Little League games, and work in every corner of our state. What Trump is doing is not reforming our immigration system, it’s violating due process and vilifying our people because of the color of their skin and the language they speak. We will do everything in our power to continue to protect our communities and speak out against this injustice.” He affirmed the state’s long-standing commitment to policies that protect the rights and dignity of immigrant families and underscored the vital role immigrants play in shaping the cultural and economic fabric of our state.

Mayor Tim Keller echoed this sentiment, reaffirming Albuquerque’s stance as a welcoming city: “Our communities are safer when everyone feels safe reporting crime, asking for help, and seeking services; no city staff, including police, are allowed to ask about immigration status or document it. That’s our policy, and it’s rooted in the belief that immigrants make our city stronger every day.”

Other speakers, including representatives from the ACLU of New Mexico, the New Mexico Immigrant Law Center, and the New Mexico Conference of Catholic Bishops, denounced the targeting of immigrants as a political tactic and called for unity in defending fundamental human rights. They reminded the public that due process, equal protection, and human dignity are not optional—they are constitutional guarantees. “if they don’t want undocumented people in the country, documented!”- added Allen Sanchez, Executive Director of New Mexico Conference of Catholic Bishops.

Encuentro was proud to be present in this collective show of strength and solidarity. As the threat of increased ICE activity looms, we remain vigilant and committed to protecting the families we serve, many of whom are the very backbone of New Mexico’s economy and community life. We call on all our partners, supporters, and neighbors to join us in this fight for justice, and to continue building a future where every person—regardless of immigration status—can live with safety, opportunity, and dignity.

The post Standing in Solidarity: Encuentro Joins El CENTRO to Defend Immigrant Communities 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.

Recientemente, Tu voz digital tuvo la oportunidad de entrevistar a Beatriz Valencia, miembro del Cómite de la Herencia Hispana, en el marco de las celebraciones del Mes de la Hispanidad. Durante la conversación, Beatriz compartió su perspectiva sobre la relevancia de este mes, el objetivo del comité y la importancia de reconocer las contribuciones de la comunidad hispana en Nuevo México y más allá.

El Mes de la Hispanidad, que se celebra del 15 de septiembre al 15 de octubre, es un período significativo que honra la rica herencia cultural, histórica y social de los pueblos hispanos. Beatriz explicó que la celebración se origina en la conmemoración de la independencia de varios países latinoamericanos y es una oportunidad para reflexionar sobre las raíces y el legado que estos pueblos han dejado en Estados Unidos.

El Cómite de la Herencia Hispana tiene como principal objetivo promover y preservar las tradiciones y la cultura hispana en Nuevo México. Beatriz enfatizó que el comité trabaja para asegurar que las voces y las historias de la comunidad hispana sean reconocidas y valoradas en la narrativa más amplia de la historia de los Estados Unidos. A través de diferentes iniciativas y eventos, buscan educar a la comunidad en general sobre las contribuciones significativas de los hispanos en diversos campos, desde la educación y las artes hasta la política y la economía. iDisfruta de esta enriquecedora conversación!

Durante la entrevista, Beatriz destacó la importancia de celebrar las contribuciones hispanas no solo durante el mes de la Hispanidad, sino a lo largo del año. “Es vital que las generaciones futuras conozcan su historia y el impacto positivo que nuestras culturas han tenido en la sociedad”, agregó. Subrayó que esta celebración no solo es un reconocimiento de los logros alcanzados, sino también un llamado a la acción para seguir apoyando y fomentando el crecimiento de la comunidad hispana.

La conversación con Beatriz fue enriquecedora y reveladora, y nos recordó a todos la importancia de celebrar nuestra diversidad cultural. El trabajo del NM Heritage Committee es esencial para recordar y honrar las raíces de nuestra comunidad, y esperamos que esta entrevista inspire a más personas a participar y celebrar el Mes de la Hispanidad con entusiasmo y orgullo.

Esta entrevista representa solo una parte de los esfuerzos del Cómite de la Herencia Hispana para hacer visible la historia y las contribuciones de la comunidad hispana en Nuevo México. Alentamos a todos a celebrar y participar en las actividades previstas durante este mes y a aprender más sobre la rica herencia que todos compartimos.

Recently,  our community journalist group, Tu voz digital,  had the opportunity to interview Beatriz Valencia,  member of the New Mexico Hispanic Heritage Committee, as part of the celebrations for Hispanic Heritage Month. During the conversation, Beatriz shared her insights on the significance of this month, the committee’s objectives, and the importance of recognizing the contributions of the Hispanic community in New Mexico and beyond.

Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15 and honors the rich cultural, historical, and social heritage of Hispanic peoples. Beatriz explained that the celebration originated from commemorating the independence of several Latin American countries and serves as an opportunity to reflect on the roots and legacy these peoples have left in the United States.

The New Mexico Hispanic Heritage Committee’s main objective is to promote and preserve Hispanic traditions and culture in New Mexico. Beatriz emphasized that the committee works to ensure that the voices and stories of the Hispanic community are recognized and valued within the broader narrative of U.S. history. Through various initiatives and events, they aim to educate the general community about the significant contributions of Hispanics in several fields, from education and the arts to politics and the economy.

During the interview, Beatriz highlighted the importance of celebrating Hispanic contributions not only during Hispanic Heritage Month but throughout the year. She added, “It is vital for future generations to know their history and the positive impact our cultures have had on society.” She underscored that this celebration serves not only as recognition of achievements but also as a call to action to continue supporting and promoting the growth of the Hispanic community.

The conversation with Beatriz was enriching and revealing, reminding us all of the importance of celebrating our cultural diversity. The work of the NM Heritage Committee is crucial for remembering and honoring the roots of our community, and we hope this interview inspires more people to participate and celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with enthusiasm and pride.

This interview represents just a part of the NM Heritage Committee’s efforts to make the history and contributions of the Hispanic community in New Mexico visible. We encourage everyone to celebrate and engage in the activities planned during this month and to learn more about the rich heritage we all share.

The post Hablemos sobre El Mes de la Herencia Hispana con El Cómite de la Herencia Hispana appeared first on Encuentro Nuevo Mexico.

Born from a profound desire to elevate the spirit of humanity, the NMHA aims to shed light on the incredible contributions made by individuals, organizations, and businesses dedicated to humanitarian goals. Every year, this distinguished recognition program highlights those who have embodied an outstanding spirit of humanity on local, national, and international stages, reminding us all of the power of compassion and dedication.

On Thursday, August 15th, 2024, Encuentro witnessed a moment of profound significance at the Jewish Community Center of Greater Albuquerque presenting the 2024 NMHA at Casino Sandia, where our very own board president, **Sandra Ortsman**, was honored for her exceptional contributions to social justice and the advancement of racial and gender equity. With immense joy and pride, we celebrate Sandra’s achievement, not just as a personal victory but as a testament to the values we hold dear as an organization.

### A Champion for Social Justice: About Ortsman

Sandra Ortsman is a seasoned community planner and passionate advocate for social justice. Sandra has dedicated herself to advancing racial and gender equity through strategic planning, organizational development, fundraising, and access to capital initiatives. Her work spans a broad spectrum including foundations, educational institutions, grassroots organizations, and state entities.
Sandra holds dual Master’s degrees in Community and Regional Planning and Latin American Studies from the University of New Mexico (UNM). Her academic achievements, coupled with her bilingual abilities in English and Spanish, have enabled her to connect deeply with diverse communities and foster collaborative relationships across cultural boundaries.

Sandra also serves as an adjunct instructor at the UNM School of Architecture and Planning, where she educates future leaders on community-based practice. Each fall, she shares her expertise and passion, teaching students skills to engage and uplift marginalized communities.
Since 2015 Sandra has been an instrumental member of Encuentro’s board and has led as its President since 2018. Encuentro is a nonprofit dedicated to social justice, immigrant rights education a

(L-R) Board Member Claudia Medina, Encuentro’s Development Director Julia Cusatis, Board Member Patricia Telles, Board President Sandra Ortsman, Communications Manager Ilse Grijalva, Coordinador of Economic Opportunities Rosalina Lopez, HHA Director Leah Steimel & CHW Norma Casasnd career development. Her commitment transcends the typical board member’s role, dedicating countless hours to the role. Sandra has been pivotal in guiding strategic planning, broadening the organization’s support network, and offering insightful mentorship to leadership.

Her dedication to community service is further evidenced by her involvement on various boards and committees dedicated to civil rights, anti-racism, and community health. From 2006 to early 2015, Sandra was the Associate Director at Enlace Comunitario, an immigrant rights organization working to eliminate domestic violence. In that role, she served as a member of Albuquerque’s Violence Prevention Task Force. In 2015, she founded a consulting firm to build capacity and financial resources for social justice nonprofits and like-minded foundations. In that role, she supports vital organizations like Centro Savila, the New Mexico Immigrant Law Center and the Southwest Women’s Law Center. She also works with Nusenda Credit Union, Roanhorse Consulting and other CDFIs to develop loan programs that have provided millions in loan funding to Native American and immigrant entrepreneurs. Her influence extends through her roles on the New Mexico Advisory Committee to the U.S. Commission on Civil Rights and as a fellow of the W.K. Kellogg Foundation Community Leadership Class II Network, amongst other notable positions.

Encuentro’s family supporting Sandra on her Special Day

Congratulations and thank you, Sandra! Your instrumental role in the growth of Encuentro has been invaluable. Your expertise, enthusiasm, and commitment are vital to our success, and we deeply appreciate your leadership and the meaningful work you continue to do. ????

Learn more about this recognition

The post Encuentro’s board president honored with the NM Humanitarian Award 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.

“Con más de diez años en el campo de la salud mental, tengo un profundo conocimiento de los profundos impactos que la inmigración puede tener en las familias latinas. Como inmigrante, he experimentado estos desafíos de primera mano, navegando por las complejidades de una nueva cultura mientras siento el desplazamiento que a menudo acompaña a la reubicación es fundamental para abordar estos problemas y proporcionar un entorno de apoyo donde los miembros de la comunidad puedan encontrar solidaridad y comprensión.

With over ten years in the mental health field, I have a deep understanding of the profound impacts immigration can have on Latinx families. As an immigrant myself, I’ve experienced these challenges firsthand, navigating the complexities of a new culture while feeling the displacement that often accompanies relocation. Encuentro is pivotal to addressing these issues and providing a supportive environment where community members can find solidarity and understanding.

Gracias mis experiencias personales como hija de estudiantes de Encuentro y ahora como Directora Ejecutiva, soy testigo diariamente de los efectos transformadores de los programas de Encuentro en la salud mental de nuestras familias. Brindamos un espacio enriquecedor donde se comparten historias y se celebran las identidades culturales. Juntos, abordamos las tensiones psicológicas de la inmigración. La resiliencia mostrada por nuestra comunidad no es sólo inspiradora: es un testimonio de la fuerza que surge del apoyo compasivo y la curación colectiva”.

Drawing from my personal experiences as a daughter of Encuentro students, and now serving as the Executive Director, I witness daily the transformative effects of Encuentro’s programs on our families’ mental health. We provide a nurturing space where stories are shared and cultural identities are celebrated. Together, we address the psychological stresses of immigration. The resilience displayed by our community is not just inspiring—it’s a testament to the strength that emerges from compassionate support and collective healing.”

Dalia Medina Bustillos

Directora Ejecutiva de Encuentro/ Encuentro’s Executive Director

CULTIVATING WELLNESS AT ENCUENTRO

“Encuentro is a special place for me. It’s where I can be myself, feel understood, and feel valued. It’s a place where I can escape from the stresses of everyday life and focus on my own growth and development.”

“Encuentro es un lugar especial para mí. Es (un lugar) donde puedo ser yo misma, sentirme comprendida y valorada, donde puedo escapar del estrés de la vida cotidiana y concentrarme en mi propio crecimiento y desarrollo”.

Isaura Gonzalez,
Estudiantes de Inglés/ESL student and Spanish Tutor

“Encuentro has had a profound impact on my life. I used to struggle and limit myself in my career and personal life. Being at Encuentro makes me feel like I can do anything. My family has noticed the change in me, and it has been life-changing.”

“Encuentro ha tenido un impacto profundo en mi vida. Solía luchar y limitarme en mi carrera y vida personal. Estar en Encuentro me hace sentir que puedo hacer cualquier cosa. Mi familia ha notado el cambio en mí, y ha sido que cambia la vida.”

Maria Campa
Estudiante de la Clase de Educación Financiera/Financial Literacy Class Student

“My experience in the Encuentro community has been transformative; not only has it givenme a sense of belonging and connection with others, but it has also made me feel proud of myself.”

“Mi experiencia en la comunidad Encuentro ha sido transformadora; no solo me ha dado un sentido de pertenencia y conexión con los demás, sino que también me ha hecho sentir orgulloso de mí misma”.

Lirio Antillon
Estudiante de la clase de Educación Financiera/ Financial Literacy Class Student

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