Despierta

Despierta seeks to empower and integrate newly arrived Latina immigrants as well as Latina youth to help them become self-reliant and supportive within the community. Our mission is to transform the lives of Latinas by giving them the emotional tools and life skills to find their identity and independence.

Who We Are

Despierta is a non-profit agency founded by Latinas in Charlotte, NC. It was birthed out of passion to help the Latina community thrive. Being that Latinas are a very underserved population in Charlotte, we aim to empower Latinas by providing support services that can help individuals thrive and strengthen  families.

Our Vision 

Every Latina has the right to feel safe, empowered, and free from injustice no matter their legal status.

The issue that was identified when working with Latina immigrants was primarily the lack of knowledge and access to community resources due to language barriers, low education levels, poverty, lack of social support, mistrust of the community, and other cultural barriers.

We provide guidance and resources that focuses on:

• Mental Health Wellness
• Health Education
• Domestic Violence Awareness and Advocacy
• Family Support Services

Both Latina youth and newly arrived immigrant women in Charlotte can benefit from our two programs

Bonita Rising:  Our Bonita Rising will be centered for adolescents ages 12-17 helping them and guiding them to find their identity and self worth. This program will provide comprehensive emotional tools to support personal growth and academic development.

Mujer Despierta:  Our Mujer Despierta program is designed to provide support to new immigrant residents of Mecklenburg county. It will help guide Latina women who are 18 and older in navigating public health resources in the community. 

Opportunities to get involved

Volunteering opportunities are available through health education, marketing and social media outreach, fundraising, community outreach, and in kind donation. 

You can also get involved by becoming a financial supporter. Every dollar you give helps make our community a better place by giving our amigas access to resources in a safe environment that supports them.

Be a donator by giving diapers, baby wipes, bottles, diaper bags, new and gently used clothing for infants, and children, maternity clothing, feminine and personal care items. 

We must RISE.