My Friend, Araceli

There are people who come into our lives who change us, who impact us, who teach us valuable lessons. I know that has been the case for me with Araceli, who I’ve had the privilege of knowing for the past seven years, ever since I first set foot in the community of Miguel Alemán, 30 minutes from my hometown of Hermosillo, Mexico.

If you haven’t already seen it, I hope you will take five minutes to watch our new short film that tells Araceli’s story in her own words. In the film, you will meet a woman who is strong, brave, and hard-working. I’ve seen those qualities in her myself.

But there’s even more to Araceli than that. She is generous, always extending hospitality to her neighbors. Most of all, she is a woman of faith. As I have spent time with her, Araceli has taught me the power of resilience and the power of prayer. And I have watched her with my own eyes, leading community development workshops, teaching people to cook, and serving in her church.

For me, I like to think of Araceli as a flower in the desert—someone who has blossomed even under difficult life circumstances.

In the communities we serve, men and women like Araceli are leading the way. They are the heroes. We celebrate them and support them in their work. And this giving season, we have the opportunity to plant the seeds so that even more Aracelis will bloom as flowers in the desert.

Your gift of $50, $100, $250—or whatever you feel led to give—will make a lasting difference. Please give generously.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for partnering with 1MISSION and the families we serve. Thank you for being part of this amazing story.