Staff rooted in Community: meet Berenice

Long before becoming a Program Lead at Solidarity, Berenice and her family first joined the community through Mamas de Maple and the Elementary After School Program. Drawn to the creativity and connection she found in the group, Berenice quickly became a dedicated participant, regularly attending program and helping Martha with larger projects whenever she could.

Before long, Berenice realized that Mamas de Maple offered far more than a creative outlet.

As a child, Berenice did not complete school and was repeatedly told that she “was not smart” and would “never accomplish anything.” After hearing those words for years, she began to believe them. Her sense of self became shaped by the limitations others placed on her.

Through the support and encouragement of Mamas de Maple, Berenice slowly began to challenge the self-doubt she had carried for much of her life. Over time, she discovered she was capable of far more than she had ever been given credit for. Today, she recognizes both her self-worth and her ability to lead others.

That support extended far beyond program hours or the walls of the 601 Community Center. During difficult seasons, the other mothers consistently showed up for Berenice without being asked. Whether delivering meals during periods of depression or becoming the first customers of her family’s food business, the women demonstrated unwavering commitment to one another.

As Berenice grew in confidence, she also began to see transformation within her own family.

Before joining Solidarity’s youth programs, her daughters were extremely shy. After several years in the programs, both felt confident enough to speak publicly at a City Hall meeting. Through the Teen Center, they built relationships with mentors who encouraged goal setting, accountability, and the courage to dream big. Now that her children are adults, Berenice feels deep gratitude knowing they were surrounded by positive influences that supported both their personal and academic growth.

During her time in Mamas de Maple, Berenice also became a client of Camino Immigration Services. Through their support, she was able to obtain her Green Card. After years of experiencing the support and belonging that defined Mamas de Maple firsthand, Berenice was invited to bring that same care to others by joining the Solidarity staff and launching Mamas de Garnet.

Despite her nerves, Berenice embraced the opportunity and founded Mamas de Garnet, creating a space where women like herself could find support, connection, and new experiences. While the program shares the same foundation as Mamas de Maple, Berenice understood that every woman carries her own story, struggles, and needs. She intentionally shaped the program around those experiences.

Today, Berenice helps mothers pursue their goals, complete projects, and begin breaking cycles of generational trauma. Her lived experience allows her to lead with empathy, authenticity, and trust, creating an environment grounded in genuine connection and unconditional support.

As someone who once relied on these same programs and relationships, Berenice now leads from a place of deep understanding and shared experience. Her story reflects Solidarity’s belief that the strongest community leaders are often those who have grown within the community itself.