Dear Friends,

While it saddens me to write my last message as CLUES’ President and CEO at these unprecedented times, when many Latino and immigrant families are terrified to step outside their homes, I am also empowered and hopeful to advocate for change as I hear the collective voices and feel the love of a united Minnesota.

Resistance takes many forms, and for our team members, providing safety, stability, dignity, and care for the people we serve has been our own act of resilience. Every day, we reaffirm our commitment to protect, support, and advance the families and communities we serve. 

As I pass on the baton to our incoming President, Liliana Letran Garcia, in February 2026, I want to express my deepest gratitude to our volunteers and donor community for the generosity, compassion, and partnership we shared during my tenure. Your support has been instrumental in opening new opportunities for our community and strengthening CLUES' capacity during many challenging times. 

Today, I’m inviting all of you to renew your commitment by making a gift to CLUES’ Emergency Relief Initiatives Fund to meet this moment. Families who have lost their income and are unable to leave their homes are turning to CLUES for help with healthy food, rent subsidies, household items, resource navigation, and other essential services. 

Please contribute to our Emergency Relief Fund & Initiatives by donating, volunteering, or becoming a recurring donor to support our long-term capacity. 

Thank you for your continued partnership as we strive to support more resilient and safe communities. Together we can make change happen! 

With much gratitude, 

Ruby Azurdia-Lee