Educate a Mexican Child Experiencing Poverty

Sandra G. graduated from Christel House Mexico (CHMX) last year and faced a dilemma. She was accepted to two universities. While taking classes remotely due to the pandemic, she decided both schools offered her a unique opportunity. So, why not do both?

Sandra started a technical program in Tourism Administration at Ibero-American University. “I was very nervous since I was starting classes online,” she says. “As time passed, I have been able to adapt and move forward.” Comfortable with her studies and enjoying her tourism administration classes, Sandra wanted to add engineering classes at the National Polytechnic Institute of Mexico (IPN). She took the entrance exam and was accepted! She admits it was a challenge studying at two universities, but Sandra says she’s very organized. “I knew this was going to be difficult, but when you want something you look for that purpose to keep fighting, never forgetting your goals,” she says. After completing two semesters at Ibero and one semester at IPN, Sandra decided to pause her Engineering courses for one year, to allow her to complete her Tourism Administration classes. “Sandra wants to achieve high grades in both programs,” says Luis Serrano, CHMX College & Careers Coordinator. She’s grateful for the College & Careers program. “Being part of Christel House changed my life,” says Sandra, “and my family’s as well.”    

The American Society of Mexico (AMSOC) is saluting Christel House Mexico (CHMX) for its “outstanding humanitarian contribution to the community during the year of 2020.” Javier Alarcón Benet, CHMX Executive Director, says the distinction honors the school’s committed staff and board. “I feel so grateful to work on this great mission with great colleagues.”  

Christel House was one of a handful of organizations honored by AMSOC (including United Way Mexico, Special Olympics and Habitat for Humanity among others.) “They have faced big challenges,” said AMSOC in their announcement. “They have been working intensely with creativity, tenacity and professionalism to carry on with their important mission.” Christel House families faced economic uncertainty. With lockdowns, 89% of parents of CHMX students either lost their jobs or suffered significant reductions in income. Christel House staff responded, organizing food drives to safely provide thousands of meals and critical resources for students and their families. In 2020, through the AMSOC Organizations Steering Group, CHMX forged alliances with new community partners. “Without AMSOC, those new relationships wouldn’t have been possible,” says Alarcón Benet. “We are proud to have been awarded this Certificate of Excellence for how we faced the pandemic.”