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 5-week group is for individuals without lawful status who are navigating dating life while undocumented. The group will explore the complexities of discussing love and legal status with current and potential partners.
Meeting Day: Thursdays
Meeting Time: 5:00-6:00 pm Pacific (7:00-8:00 pm Central / 8:00-9:00 pm Eastern)
Dates: 10/22, 10/29, 11/05, 11/12, 11/19
Facilitator: Mayra Almanza
Register by October 12 HERE
Read more about Support Groups for People Legalizing ↑
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This 5-week group is for individuals without permanent lawful status who do not qualify for programs like DACA and are looking for fulfillment while still actively pursuing a pathway to lawful status.
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: 10/20, 10/27, 11/03, 11/10, 11/17
Facilitator: Kissu Taffere + Juan Manuel
Register by October 12 HERE
Read more about Support Groups for People Legalizing ↑
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This 5-week group is for individuals with a pending or approved SIJS application who haven’t received their green card. The group will provide support given the uncertainty and heightened risk due to recent policy changes.
Meeting Day: Wednesdays
Meeting Time: 5:30-6:30 pm Pacific (7:30-8:30 pm Central / 8:30-9:30 pm Eastern)
Dates: 10/21, 10/28, 11/04, 11/11, 11/18
Facilitator: Jose Perez
Register by October 12 HERE
Read more about Support Groups for People Legalizing ↑
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This 5-week group is for individuals considering leaving the U.S. and relocating to Canada for safety, work, lifestyle, or legal status.
Meeting Day: Mondays
Meeting Time: 6:30-7:30 pm Pacific (8:30-9:30 pm Central / 9:30-10:30 pm Eastern)
Dates: 10/19, 10/26, 11/02, 11/09, 11/16
Facilitator: Jose Perez
Register by October 12 HERE
Read more about Support Groups for People Legalizing ↑
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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, SINCHI LLC
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.