Local Nonprofit AHA Offers Support for Teens Following Increased Immigration Activity
AHA Provides Support Amidst Immigration Turmoil in Santa Barbara
SANTA BARBARA, Calif. – In the wake of heightened immigration enforcement activity, the nonprofit organization AHA has taken significant steps to support local youth and foster community resilience. Last week, AHA organized a gathering aimed at offering a safe haven for those affected by the stress and fear resulting from recent events, including raids conducted by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
The emotional toll of immigration actions has been profound, particularly among teenagers in the Santa Barbara area. AHA, which focuses on youth empowerment, hosted the event to allow attendees a space to process their feelings and share their experiences. Rocio Vejar, a participant and student at AHA, reflected on the importance of the organization’s support during such trying times. “When I saw them, I was at the office, and they helped me ground myself because it was upsetting,” she said, emphasizing the need for emotional stability amidst ongoing uncertainty.
Brandon Battle, AHA’s director of programs, noted the pervasive impact of immigration concerns on the local youth. “It feels really heavy; a lot of the teens we serve are being impacted by this,” he remarked. This sentiment was echoed by fellow student Sienna Petty, who added, “I definitely feel the heaviness, and it’s really sad that that’s the reality we’re living in today.”
Acknowledging the crucial role of community in times of stress, Roxana Petty, the executive director of AHA, stated, “To come together like today is what our community needs to move forward so we can be allies for one another.” Her remarks highlight the organization’s commitment to creating a supportive environment for young people navigating complex social issues.
However, the climate of fear surrounding immigration enforcement has significant implications for community participation. Some students were hesitant to attend the conference due to apprehension about their safety. “We were getting so many phone calls from parents and teens in fear of even being able to be present here,” Roxana Petty conveyed, underscoring the challenges faced by families in the current political landscape.
For those who did attend the gathering, the experience proved invaluable. Sienna Petty asserted, “It’s very important for the community to get together, even in scary times like this…it’s important to remember the power that can come from connection.” The event served not only as a means of emotional support but as a unifying force, reinforcing the idea that solidarity plays a critical role in overcoming adversity.
As communities across the nation grapple with the implications of immigration policy and enforcement, organizations like AHA stand at the forefront, providing essential resources and fostering emotional resilience among youth. The collaborative efforts of community leaders, parents, and young people exemplify the strength found in unity during challenging times, underscoring the importance of advocacy and support systems in promoting societal well-being.
