This past Sunday, April 6, VIA (Venezuelans and Immigrants Aid) held its first-ever virtual fundraising event, thanks to the generous efforts of author and professor Saúl Austerlitz (Kind of a Big Deal) and the support of his community at Park Slope Jewish Center in Brooklyn. Hosted via Zoom, the event brought together individuals committed to immigrant rights and eager to learn more about VIA’s work over the past nine years.
Stories that Move Us: Firsthand Accounts from VIA Participants
According to VIA co-founders Niurka Meléndez and Héctor Arguinzones, the event was more than just a fundraiser. “It was a day of inspiration, empathy, and real action, ” they said. Throughout the evening, attendees watched four powerful video testimonials highlighting the human impact of VIA’s work.
Vanessa, a Venezuelan anesthesiologist, shared how VIA’s “Building Bridges” program and partnership with Upwardly Global helped her successfully enter the U.S. job market, dramatically improving her family’s life. Julian spoke about how a VIA crochet workshop helped him overcome emotional and social isolation while providing crucial immigration guidance. Patricia explained how a virtual emotional support group became her most trusted network as she navigated motherhood and the asylum process during the pandemic. Carlos described how VIA provided legal resources and guidance that enabled him to apply for asylum, build a new life in the U.S., and receive his work permit.
These stories represent just a handful of the thousands of lives VIA has touched, each one a testament to the organization’s mission: to accompany and empower migrants on their journey to rebuild their lives with dignity.
Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
For event organizer Saúl Austerlitz, the motivation behind this fundraiser is rooted in a deep sense of ethical responsibility. “We’re concerned about the future of immigrants and asylum seekers, especially in such an uncertain political climate, ” he said. “Supporting VIA is a tangible way to uphold values like justice, hospitality, and human dignity.”
Over the past few months, Austerlitz has been working to build a network of allies, share resources, and create safe hybrid spaces for community engagement, often in collaboration with local congregations like PSJC in Brooklyn.
Meléndez and Arguinzones expressed heartfelt thanks for the initiative, saying: “These kinds of collaborations not only strengthen our operational capacity, they remind us that we’re not alone. Every dollar donated, every story shared, every person who joins our cause brings us closer to our mission: to support, inform, and empower immigrant communities with compassion and justice.”
VIA’s Future Plans
The event also inspired new donors and potential long-term partners. Thanks to Saúl’s network and the community’s enthusiasm, there are now conversations underway to explore future collaborations.
VIA seeks support in purchasing essential equipment and strengthening its digital networks. With over 25, 000 followers on Instagram, nearly 4, 000 profile visits, and 574, 000 views recorded in April alone, our impact continues to grow across platforms. Instagram, YouTube, and WhatsApp serve as our primary windows to the community, allowing them to share timely, accurate information and foster deeper connections with those we serve. Strengthening these channels is crucial to expanding our reach and sustaining our mission.
VIA welcomes anyone who wants to support its mission. Donations can be made via Zelle, PayPal, or Pledge through vianyc.org, or by mailing a check to 167 W 136th St. #7, New York, NY 10030.
As Arguinzones and Meléndez put it: “Every act of solidarity is a spark that lights the path for those seeking refuge, justice, and a new beginning.”