Ingrid never planned to leave Venezuela. Her life, family, and memories were deeply rooted
there. But over time, political turmoil, economic instability, and the lack of healthcare made
it nearly impossible to raise her children in safety and dignity.
At first, Ingrid followed her children to Ecuador, believing she could build a future there. But
soon, she realized that the opportunities were still too limited, the struggles too heavy, and
the dream of stability still out of reach. With courage and hope, she made the life-changing
decision to journey to the United States.
First Impressions in Arkansas
Arriving in Arkansas, Ingrid felt both nervous and curious. What she discovered surprised
her. She was struck by the simple trust people had in everyday life. At the grocery store, she
watched in amazement as people used self-checkout systems, paying honestly even when
no one was watching. One day, she accidentally forgot to pay for an item. Overcome with
guilt, she returned to the store to pay for it.
For Ingrid, this moment symbolized something deeper, a culture built on trust,
accountability, and shared values.
Even more meaningful was the kindness of the people around her. Neighbors greeted her
warmly, strangers said hello, and her first impression of Arkansas was one of welcome.
After years of instability, that sense of safety became the first step toward healing.
Finding Belonging Through Canopy
Ingrid’s journey took a turning point when she connected with Canopy NWA. From the
beginning, she felt understood. Having a Spanish-speaking case manager who respected her
culture and patiently answered her questions made a powerful difference.
Through Canopy’s employment support and job club, Ingrid gained confidence and
direction. Today, she works at a university where she feels respected and valued. Canopy
also helped her build meaningful connections — not only with other Venezuelans, but with
people from many countries, creating a sense of shared community.
“At Canopy, I found more than services. I found dignity, respect, and people who truly saw
me.” — Ingrid
A Space to Belong: Building Community in Spanish
One of Ingrid’s most meaningful milestones was facilitating her first social support group
for Spanish speakers at the Canopy office. What began as a simple gathering quickly
transformed into a powerful moment of connection and belonging.
The room filled with shared stories, open conversations, and relief. Participants expressed
that it was the first time since arriving in the United States that they felt truly welcome and
connected to others who understood their experiences. Speaking in their native language
allowed everyone to show up fully, without fear or hesitation.
“Seeing people open up, recognize themselves in one another, and realize they were not
alone, that was incredible. That’s what community feels like.” — Ingrid.
For Ingrid, the group affirmed something she deeply believes: healing begins when people
are given space to be seen, heard, and understood.
Advocate, Leader, and Dreamer
Ingrid’s story is not only about resettlement but also about leadership. With experience in
nonprofit work and advocacy, she is deeply committed to mental health and gender equity.
In Ecuador and now in Arkansas, she has facilitated wellness circles for women and men,
creating safe spaces where people can talk openly about their struggles and begin healing
together.
She recalls leading a men’s support circle as one of her proudest moments. While it was
difficult at first for participants to open up, trust grew over time, and honest conversations
followed. Ingrid has also led wellness groups for women at Canopy, including reflection
circles focused on belonging, resilience, and growth.
Her dream is to one day open an organization dedicated to children’s mental health,
especially for children impacted by migration. Through storytelling, writing, movement, and
dance, she hopes to help children express themselves, heal, and stay connected to their
cultural identities.
Writing Her Story, Honoring Culture
Alongside her advocacy, Ingrid is writing her biography, tracing her journey from Venezuela
to Ecuador and now to the United States. Writing, for her, is a form of healing and reflection.
It allows her to honor her culture while examining how migration reshapes identity,
resilience, and belonging.
She dreams of creating public cultural spaces where children and families can celebrate
their heritage through storytelling, performance, and dance, honoring the past while
building pride in the present.
Gratitude, Growth, and Hope
Ingrid is deeply grateful for Canopy and the resettlement support she received. She
recognizes that many newcomers do not have access to the same guidance, especially
around healthcare, legal support, employment, and community connections.
“Life has given me many good things. My children, my community, and the support I
received here have made me a better person. I believe we can create safe spaces where
people heal, grow, and carry their culture with pride.” — Ingrid.
Ingrid’s journey reminds us that resettlement is more than a process; it is a story of
resilience, dignity, and shared humanity. Through her leadership and compassion, she
continues to help shape Northwest Arkansas into a place where newcomers can truly
belong.
At Canopy NWA, we believe stories like Ingrid’s reflect the heart of our mission, building
community, restoring dignity, and creating pathways for hope.
Interview conducted by Malath Alarnosi, Case Management Supervisor and Interpretation
by Andrea Abarca.
Responses