As we prepare to gather with family in the coming days, I think of our many clients who are unable to be with their loved ones. Families separated by borders and violence.

The season of Advent began this past Sunday. I'm not referring to Advent calendars where we (and our pets) can pop open a daily window to enjoy a treat in the countdown to Christmas.

I joined the Jubilee team over two years ago. I was especially drawn to Jubilee’s articulation of core values which center on our shared humanity and community.

Inspired. I've been reflecting on what has and continues to inspire me. It's generally not charisma or heroics. Rather, I'm inspired by ordinary people who make everyday choices to love, forgive and extend mercy.

In 2012, a large earthquake hit Guatemala, destroying Elisabeth’s family home. With substantial debts to pay and a young daughter with severe disabilities, Elisabeth felt she had no choice but to make the journey north to find work.

In the past decade, we have witnessed a dramatic increase in the number of young people arriving at our southern border in desperate circumstances. In 2022, more than 130,000 children and youth traveled alone to the U.S., seeking refuge from violence and poverty. This number has tripled since 2017.