Corazón Over Fear: Courageous Leadership in Volatile Environments

Strategic Insights from the Frontlines of the Guatemala and Mayan Center 

Written by: Celyn Olivera & Dr. Andrea Ortega

Nuestra comunidad is amazing, and it’s an honor for us to get to work with them. We recently featured Mari Blanco, the Operations Director at The Guatemalan-Maya Center (TGMC) in Palm Beach County, Florida, in the Palante Nonprofits Podcast. Statistically, Palm Beach County has the highest number of detainees in Florida; more alarmingly, it has twice as many as the second-place county, Polk County. Though that number can be overwhelming, the center is at the forefront of addressing the community's needs, from providing logistical support to families facing separation to advocating for policy changes. Let’s get to know Mari and the amazing work they do with our migrant communities in South Florida. This conversation dives swiftly into the challenges of supporting Latinx communities in a scene shaped by a form of conservatism that places a high price on immigrant families, and how guiding people with compassion and an unshakable purpose reflects the heart of a true leader. 

Mari’s form of leadership is shaped by her own journey, being born in Mexico and raised in Miami, brought her a tireless passion for community service. As a result, she steps into this leading role, where, as a young Latina, she faces the skepticism of her peers. Her mentor, the Founder and incredible leader of TGMC, Father Frank, taught her a powerful, unapologetic mantra at the heart of her work, which she makes sure to carry.

“If it’s for the people, don’t apologize". 

In every step of the way, he has paved the way for her and guides her as she learns about what it truly means to lead in Palm Beach County. Here she continues to advocate for families facing the constant threats of deportation and separation. In addition to operating in a predominantly conservative area, Mari noticed that by fostering connections and building trust, they have been able to acknowledge, study, and navigate the complexities of Palm Beach County’s political landscape. 

She recognizes that fear is the fuel for this new administration, so she has decided that fear will not be something they will show. Consequently, she explains how The Guatemalan-Maya Center has adapted its strategies in response to increasing deportations. Mari knows they're targeted and understands the risks, yet every day, alongside her team, they work courageously for the advocacy their community deserves. 

Mari’s heart beats with such purpose, it’s hard not to follow her lead.  

Time is now. This is an urgent call to act boldly and courageously, demonstrating that your actions are rooted in love and authenticity. Turn vulnerability into strength and instill hope in your community; never fear. Mari’s story will inspire you to lead bravely, advocate fiercely, and remember why it all matters, the people. Ultimately, this episode serves as a reminder to all nonprofit leaders that the greatest strength lies in unity, support, and the courage to stand firm in the mission. We invite you to join Mari Blanco, whose work is reshaping lives and challenging the narrative for immigrants in Palm Beach County. 

About The Guatemalan-Maya Center 

The story of The Guatemalan-Maya Center began in the 1970s through Father Frank O’Loughlin, whose early work alongside the United Farm Workers forged a lifelong commitment to marginalized communities. After encountering Mayan in the 1980s, Father Frank helped found the center in 1992 to assist and advocate for these families through education, health, and immigration services. What started as a mission to provide prenatal care for indigenous women in Palm Beach County has evolved into a vital support network serving over 1,000 families from 28 countries every month, all while honoring Maya culture and the inalienable right of every human to live in peace and dignity.

Website: guatemalanmaya.org

Instagram: instagram.com/guatemalanmayacenter

About the Palante Nonprofits Podcast 

Youtube: youtube.com/@PalanteNonprofits

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Apple Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/palante-nonprofits

Para la versión en español haz clic aquí.