Marialexa Sanoja Uriarte

Message from Founder and CEO

While working as a School Resource Officer in an underserved community, I saw firsthand the consequences of unfavorable treatment and disadvantages Hispanic students, parents, and guardians face:

  • The language barrier.
  • Fear
  • Racial and ethnic stereotypes.
  • Unequal access to resources.
  • Lack of guidance.

These factors, in addition to the straddle of two cultures, urgently demand our attention as they put our students at risk of developing mental health disorders, increased suicides, substance abuse, and violent behavior.

Being in a position of power, being a mother, and being an immigrant myself, I felt a profound personal responsibility to create a path of understanding through cultural empathy. This is not just a professional duty but a personal commitment that I carry with me every day, knowing that it can make a difference in the lives of our youth.

At Mision Despegue Inc., we understand the unique risks and challenges parents and adolescents face today. We provide comprehensive workshops and educational programs to address these issues head-on, focusing on the Hispanic immigrant community. All our classes are conducted in Spanish and English, ensuring accessibility and inclusivity for our Hispanic community members.

Our organization aims to create awareness about the dangers of substance abuse, addiction, and mental health issues prevalent among youth. We strive to bridge the gap between cultures by helping parents understand the cultural differences between Hispanic culture and the culture in the United States.

Through our workshops, we provide valuable insights into the challenges faced by Hispanic immigrants, including cultural shock in schools, anxiety, depression, suicidal tendencies, bullying, cyberbullying, lack of supervision, and the potential risks of involvement in the criminal justice system.

Additionally, we offer guidance on navigating the digital landscape to which our children are exposed. We educate parents about the potential dangers of social media and technology, equipping them with the knowledge to protect their children and foster a safe and healthy online environment.

Our ultimate goal is to empower parents to be more involved in their children’s lives, fostering open communication and creating a supportive environment where they can listen, recognize signs of distress, and provide the necessary help and guidance.

Join us in our mission to create a stronger, healthier community for our youth. Together, we can make a positive and lasting impact on our children’s lives.