Mano Amiga is a non-profit organization that began operating in 2010 with the goal of helping and guiding Spanish-speaking individuals who needed a Helping Hand in foreign lands. Mano Amiga provides social and economic assistance to immigrants and their families, who may feel disoriented in their new country of residence. This help is provided without discrimination based on nationality, religion, politics, age, or race.
The group started in 2010 in response to the earthquake in Concepción, Chile. A group of women, led by Marisol Valenzuela, held a fundraising meeting to help the affected families, channeling the money through the Catholic Church. Women from different parts of Latin America attended to collaborate in the event. Empanadas, Chilean bread, and other items were sold. It was a beautiful event full of solidarity and kindness. This is how the idea arose to meet again and think about what they could do to help Latino immigrant friends in New Zealand.
The group began to take shape and identified its objectives and goals, along with the planning of different activities. They elected their board of directors and started working together, meeting once a month. Over these seven years, they helped a large number of people from various Spanish-speaking countries, such as Chile, Colombia, Argentina, Mexico, and Brazil. In some cases, they provided assistance with visits, transportation, money, groceries, clothing, medicines, paperwork, and more.
Mano Amiga organizes an annual bingo event every year to raise funds, which are used to help those in need throughout the year. They have also participated by selling food at various cultural events. In November 2016, they received approval to become a legally registered charity. With great excitement, Mano Amiga invites everyone to share this wonderful news and to reach out whenever necessary. They also express their gratitude to the founding President, Marisol Valenzuela, and to everyone who supported in some way to make this dream a reality—the dream of continuing together, now with the legal recognition of the government of this great country, New Zealand.
Our mission is to empower Spanish-speaking immigrants during their stay in New Zealand so that they can successfully integrate into their new communities and thrive in New Zealand.
Our vision is a country where every Spanish-speaking immigrant has the resources and support they need to overcome the challenges of assimilation and build a fulfilling life in New Zealand.
Compassion: We approach our work with solidarity and understanding, recognizing the unique challenges faced by Spanish-speaking immigrants.
Inclusion: We strive to create an inclusive environment where all immigrants feel welcomed and valued.
Empowerment: We believe in empowering immigrants to take control of their own lives and achieve their goals.
Collaboration: We collaborate with other organizations and community members to provide the best possible support to Spanish-speaking immigrants.
