Miguel's Story

I am a Mexican immigrant who was brought to the U.S.A at the age of three. I am the oldest of five children. My siblings grew up in the Buford Hwy area, where I have seen the many changes the neighborhood has gone through.                           

My family has known the North's since the beginning of their work in the neighborhood in 2009. I'm glad to say that they have become great family friends we cherish a lot.                                                                                                           

I grew up attending Presencia and eventually after graduating high school, I had the privilege of working for a couple of years on staff as the Tutoring Director. I served on the Presencia board in 2016 and 2017.                                                                                                                                                                           

The kindness, dedication and hard work Presencia puts into the neighborhood is one of the main contributions to the person I am today. Presencia helped me find a meaning to my life and realize the passion I have always had for working with children and helping them see their potential.                                                                                                                                   

These children grow up in rough areas with many problems at home. Presencia is there to show God's love for them. Presencia is there to build a community and let kids know they are not alone, that they have people rooting for them that authentically care.                                                                                                        

I want to help be a change in these kids life just like it was for me. I wouldn't be where I am without the help, love, care and friendship Ian and Ruthie gave to me unconditionally. They have helped me and other in the area and there are many more kids I know whose heart they will touch with Gods help.