I began working with Via International in 2013 and have stayed engaged because of the amazing impact I have seen in communities around the globe. As a grand-daughter of Mexican migrants, and a student of international relations, I have been drawn to the community development work of the organization both along and across the U.S.-Mexico border, as well as globally.  The organizational values and principles mirror my own: human dignity, social justice, self-reliance, sustainability, community; just to name a few.  Via values the individual and encourages every person to be their own best resource while also highlighting the importance of family, community and solidarity. Via's programs target low-income and underserved communities and include food security initiatives, nutrition and ecology education, micro-loans for economic independence and youth leadership education just to name a few. The need for these programs has only been exaggerated during the pandemic, and Via's ability to support communities in need rests upon individual donations and grants.

Programming impacts thousands of people each year and I have seen this impact first hand, here in my own community, in communities along the border, and in underserved communities throughout Mexico and Central America.  I feel fortunate to be both a volunteer and an employee of Via International.

I recognize 2020 has been a tough year for most, both financially and emotionally.  This pandemic has exacerbated inequalities and made it ever more clear to me just how fortunate I am to have a roof over my head, a stable income, and plenty of food to feed my family. If you too are this fortunate, then I would ask you to consider supporting this campaign for Via International, to continue to serve communities in need both here and abroad.  

Many thanks and Happy Holidays to you and yours!