In the heart of the San Gabriel Valley, CA, amidst the bustling streets and diverse communities, a beacon of hope and transformation was born—the Healing and Justice Center (HJC). This unique nonprofit emerged from the shared visions of Azucena Ortiz and Jorge Rivera, two individuals whose journeys from personal struggles to champions of change underscore the power of healing and advocacy.

Azucena's story began in Guatemala, migrating to the United States at the tender age of five. Growing up in an environment marred by violence and substance abuse, she found herself trapped in a cycle of trauma, mirroring the very patterns she vowed to escape. By 19, with two young sons and a resolve to break free from the chains of her past, Azucena embarked on a transformative journey. Her discovery of the Center for Nonviolence and Parenting ignited a passion for nonviolent parenting, healing, and eventually, advocacy for social justice. It was a realization that changing the world starts with changing ourselves and how we relate to those closest to us.

Parallel to Azucena's path, Jorge Rivera's narrative unfolded. Born in the United States into a similarly turbulent family life, Jorge faced his demons early on. Encounters with violence, abuse, and a near-fatal brush with despair propelled him onto a path of self-discovery through education in psychology and philosophy. Despite a brief foray into foster care and real estate, it was his return to his roots in a struggling Long Beach community that awakened him to his true calling. There, he found his voice in community organizing and the critical need for systemic change.

However, it was not just the systems outside that needed mending. Jorge noticed a glaring omission in the movements he was part of—a lack of inward healing and nonviolent practice among those fighting for change. This observation struck a chord with Azucena's experiences, and together, they saw a vision for a new kind of activism.

Thus, the Healing and Justice Center was born—a sanctuary where the journey towards social justice begins with personal healing. It stands as a testament to the belief that to build a world of empathy, inclusion, and understanding, we must first embody these values ourselves. HJC is more than an organization; it's a movement towards creating sustainable change by nurturing the well-being of individuals and communities alike.

HJC is a place where advocates, organizers, and community members come together to learn, heal, and empower one another. It offers a suite of programs focused on addressing not just the symptoms of systemic oppression, but its roots—within us and around us. From workshops on nonviolent communication and parenting to advocacy for BIPOC communities, HJC is paving the way for a world where healing and justice go hand in hand.

Azucena and Jorge's stories are a powerful reminder of what we can overcome and achieve when we confront our pasts and work towards a collective future. Their journey from pain to purpose is at the heart of the Healing and Justice Center's mission.

Enchanted Vistas: Exclusive Art Collection by Kacie Martinez