Rising Above: The Journey of Tamara Martinez
As told by Family Navigator, Jazmin Morales (individual’s name has been changed for privacy)
As the Family Navigator assigned to Tamara, I first met her in 2023, through a newcomer support group that I co-hosted with Santuario del Corazón (SDC) Program Manager Jose Gonzalez. Tamara Martinez was certain of two things in her life: she would be the first in her family to graduate, and she would become successful and independent. Born in the United States but raised in Cuauhtémoc, Chihuahua, Mexico, Tamara lived with her father and brother after her parents divorced. Despite the strong bond she shared with her family, her father suggested she complete her education in the United States to pursue greater opportunities. Initially, the thought of leaving her family was daunting for Tamara. She worried about her father's and brother's well-being, and her father was also concerned about missing precious moments with his daughter. Yet, they both knew this move was a step towards the future about which she dreamed.
In 2023, Tamara arrived in Santa Fe, New Mexico, where her aunt Brenda and a cousin welcomed her with open arms and helped her enroll at Santa Fe High School. Having a cousin at the same school eased Tamara’s transition. Despite the language barrier, Tamara’s determination shone through. She tirelessly translated her homework word by word, fueled by a promise to her father to do her best.
This SDC newcomer support group became a sanctuary for Tamara, providing her with emotional and academic support as she navigated her new environment. Over time, Tamara opened up about her personal challenges, including her desire to become more independent. Together, we crafted a plan to help her achieve this goal.
Winter break brought a brief return for Tamara to Cuauhtémoc, while there, an unexpected call from Tamara revealed a new hardship once she returned to Santa Fe. Upon her return, she was no longer welcome in her family's Santa Fe apartment and had been withdrawn from school. Upon return to the United States, she was homeless and no longer a student, Tamara faced what seemed like insurmountable obstacles.
Yet, courage and resilience defined Tamara. I reassured her and quickly found a temporary solution with a friend. The very next day, she was back in school with her regular schedule, and I provided her with transportation. Thanks to the efforts of Ivan Cornejo, a dedicated social worker at Santa Fe High School, Tamara secured transitional housing. Her friend's support provided a temporary haven until her housing arrangement was finalized.
Within a month, Tamara had her own apartment and a part-time job. The next goal was to obtain her driver's license and a vehicle for commuting. By April 2024, Tamara had earned her driver's license, a significant milestone in her journey toward independence.
As graduation approaches, I reflect on Tamara's journey with immense pride. Despite countless challenges, she has demonstrated extraordinary resilience and determination. While it is bittersweet to see her move on, I am confident that Tamara will continue to succeed and grow into a remarkable, independent woman. I will always be cheering for her from the sidelines, inspired by her courage and unwavering spirit.