Voices from the Border

Based in Patagonia, AZ, and led by the values of justice, compassion, and human dignity, our mission uniquely combines humanitarian aid to migrating people in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico with art-centered creative activism supporting immigration on the U.S. side of the border. We are a women-led organization seeking to uplift and empower other women, regardless of geopolitical boundaries.

Our working model is simple; we provide safe housing, medical care, food, and basic living needs to vulnerable asylum-seeking families in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico, prioritizing women and children. When our apartments are full, we coordinate shelter resources for families as needed. We also provide fellowship, emotional support, ESL classes, and crafts and activities to our guests through our dedicated team of volunteers.

In the second branch of our mission on the U.S. side of the border, we use the arts as a vehicle for creative activism, sponsoring unique events and projects that aim to create a more holistic and empathic understanding of the lived experience of migration and life in the borderlands. We aspire to do our part to change the global narrative about migration from one of exclusion to one of inclusion.

Statement of Intent, December 2024

It is not hyperbole to say that the country is in free fall right now. The unknown awaits, and on the immigration front, it is especially harrowing. If the past is prologue, Voices will endure and emerge strengthened in our ability to adapt to the unexpected. As we journey into this unknown future together, we will be a flagship that carries a light of hope through this dark passage. We remain stalwart and determined in the commitment to help our most vulnerable brothers and sisters in their time of need. With your support, we will persevere. With your help, we will face this uncertain future together.

“In a world of walls, Voices from the Border is a bridge that welcomes all. Their work has heart and is fundamental to our democracy. It quite literally saves lives.” -Melissa del Bosque, Emmy Award-winning border journal

"The time in the apartments (in Nogales, Sonora), it was SUCH a big blessing. And thanks to God, and to you all, we were able to be there two months and 5 days where there was lots of safety, lots of tranquility, lots of support, and we felt very comfortable. We felt at home. Your organization helped us because we didn't know what we were going to do without money, not even food or anything." - Ramon from Honduras, migrating with his wife and two blind daughters

"The apartments that Voices provides to women and children provide security, a welcome respite, and a sense of respected community.  As monthly donors, we are also proud to say that we have been volunteering by providing classes and crafts for children and adults for three years. As Panchito preaches, we may not be able to change lives, but we can change moments that might last a lifetime." - Frank and Linda de Kort, donors and volunteers

Our Mission

Our mission is to welcome the unwelcome by responding to the needs of migrating people in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico and deepening understanding in the US community about the lived experience of migration.

Our Vision

We aspire to change the global narrative about migration from one of exclusion to one of inclusion by building awareness about the lived experience of migration, the effects of immigration policies on human lives and the impact of escalating climate change and its effects on migration.

We are Funded by Donors Like You!

Our non-profit organization relies on our donors' generosity to provide critical services to asylum seekers waiting in Nogales, Sonora, Mexico. Every donation is appreciated with the sincerest gratitude, and every dollar is judiciously allocated to help those we serve.