OUR
HISTORY
THE STORY OF AMA
In 2017, three humans traveled to Zapopan, Mexico, with a dream to make a difference. While there, they met some other humans, and visions aligned. International programs date back to 2014, and took its first trip abroad in 2016; however, it wasn't until 2017 that Ama was born and given an identity.
Ama was incorporated in 2018 and awarded our 501c3 Public Charity Nonprofit status from the federal government in 2019.
The pilot program, the "Connection Center", was conceptualized in 2017 as a vision to be a bridge connecting those in need to education and empowerment, leading to growth and opportunity. In 2018, the physical space was built, and programs began running in 2019.
Ama serves an area in Zapopan with over 300,000 people living in extreme poverty. Areas of make-shift housing, no running water, no electricity, and a lot of disparity. The people in these neighborhoods are some of the kindest and most hospitable humans you will ever meet. People who look at you and think "What can I give them?" instead of "What can I take from them?"
Ama believes that in order to avoid toxic charity, they must focus on sustainability, consistency, and trackable growth.
Ama believes in Maslow's hierarchy of needs. This is why they look at each person they serve as a whole person, understanding that basic needs must be met before one can be educated and empowered.
Ama has served an estimated 50,000 human beings since its inception.
Ama has begun establishing programs in the United States as well, with a focus on vulnerable and underserved populations in the immigrant and refugee communities.
It is a long-term goal that our pilot programs be duplicated throughout the United States, Mexico, Latin America, and the world.