These are supportive spaces, led by trained facilitators with shared lived experience, that help participants move forward on their journey to lawful status. Though not workshops or legal consultations, participants are able to safely explore the emotions that can sometimes arise during the legalization process: the fear of being denied; the anxiety of traveling abroad; and the exhaustion of being subject to ever-changing, unpredictable immigration policies. They also learn practical skills for managing emotional and psychological challenges.
In addition to being part of support groups, participants are able to attend optional Q&A sessions with legal experts who answer general questions, as well as with formerly undocumented individuals who share personal experiences and reflections about their legalization journeys.
Note: Though participation in these support groups can be therapeutic, these groups are not a form of therapy.
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This 4-week group is for individuals who are pursuing an H-1B work visa with their CURRENT employer. This is the first round of support groups since the First Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that lifted the H-1B $100,000 fee. Read more about current status of H-1B work visas on this Path2Papers’ resource.
Meeting Day: Mondays
Meeting Time: 6:30-7:30 pm Pacific (8:30-9:30 pm Central / 9:30-10:30 pm Eastern)
Dates: 8/31, 9/07, 9/14, 9/21
Facilitator: Huyen “Kiki” Vo
Guest Attorney:
Register by August 17 HERE
Read more about Support Groups for People Legalizing ↑
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This 4-week group is for individuals who are seeking a NEW employer who will sponsor them for an H-1B work visa. This is the first round of support groups since the First Circuit Court of Appeals ruling that lifted the H-1B $100,000 fee. Read more about current status of H-1B work visas on this Path2Papers' resource.
Meeting Day: Tuesdays
Meeting Time: 5:00 pm - 6:00 pm Pacific (7:00-8:00 pm Central / 8:00-9:00 pm Eastern)
Dates: 9/01, 9/08, 9/15, 9/22
Facilitator: Juan Manuel + Kissu Taffere
Guest Attorney:
Register by August 17 HERE
Read more about Support Groups for People Legalizing ↑
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This 4-week group is for individuals considering leaving the U.S. and relocating abroad for safety, work, lifestyle, or legal status. Participants may be considering returning to their home countries or moving to other countries.
Meeting Day: Wednesdays
Meeting Time: 5:30-6:30 pm Pacific (7:30-8:30 pm Central / 8:30-9:30 pm Eastern)
Dates: 9/2, 9/09, 9/16, 9/23
Facilitator: Jose Perez
Guest Attorney:
Register by August 17 HERE
Read more about Support Groups for People Legalizing ↑
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This 4-week group is for individuals without permanent lawful status who are considering, or already pursuing, a green card through marriage to a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. Depending on participant interest, there may be opportunities to involve partners in select sessions.
Meeting Day: Thursdays
Meeting Time: 5:00 pm-6:00 pm Pacific (6:00-7:00 pm Central / 8:00-9:00 pm Eastern)
Dates: 9/03, 9/10, 9/17, 9/24
Facilitator: Mayra Almanza
Guest Attorney:
Register by August 17 HERE
Read more about Support Groups for People Legalizing ↑
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Registration for all groups opens on August 3rd!
Mayra Almanza, Contigo Counseling Inc
Mayra is a formerly undocumented mental health therapist with over a decade of experience in the field. Throughout her career, she has worked in a variety of settings and positions, including administration, therapy and supervision. Since becoming a therapist, her goal has been to create an equitable and accessible place for those seeking therapy. She is the founder of Contigo Counseling Inc, where she focuses on serving the undocumented community. Her other passion is reproductive mental health, creating a space for individuals and couples navigating the challenges of growing their families. She continues to learn and develop an anti-racist and decolonized approach in her practice and helping other organizations and individuals do the same.
Juan Manuel, Immigrant Rights Strategist and Educator
Juan Manuel was born in Cochabamba, Bolivia, and migrated to the United States at the age of 17. Navigating life as an immigrant, he worked multiple jobs while learning English and pursuing higher education—experiences that shaped his deep commitment to expanding opportunities for others.
In 2016, Juan Manuel became an active leader in the immigrant youth movement, organizing to defend and advance immigrant rights at the congressional, state, and local levels. He has since led training and coaching programs that equip community members with the tools to think strategically and build collective power.
Drawing from both his lived experience and years of organizing, Juan Manuel brings a practical and empowering approach to helping people navigate complex immigration systems. He is passionate about helping others make informed, strategic decisions about their individual legalization pathways and long-term goals.
Outside of his professional work, Juan Manuel enjoys playing basketball, mixing music, and creating content.