At International Institute of Los Angeles (IILA), we are honored to support individuals seeking safety and opportunity in the United States. One of our clients, Juan Pérez, whose journey embodies resilience and determination, shares how IILA has been a beacon of hope during one of the most challenging times in his life. (Hear Juan tell his story.)

Growing up in Guatemala, Juan Pérez’s early years were filled with challenges. With his father working in another country, he and his younger brother were raised by their mother, a dedicated cosmetologist. His life took a darker turn at the age of seven when his home was broken into, and his cousin was tragically murdered. Forced to flee from city to city for safety, he lived in fear for years. Then when Juan was 12, his father developed a tumor and could no longer work. Determined to continue his education, however, Juan stayed in school while working minimum wage jobs to help support his family.

At 23, he began receiving direct threats from his cousin's killers, compelling him to seek a safer future elsewhere. In search of security and opportunity, he learned about the CBP One program and made the difficult decision to leave for the United States. His journey was not easy—he spent four difficult months in Mexico before arriving in the U.S. with hopes of starting anew.

Twelve days after arriving in the United States, however, Juan suffered a devastating spinal cord injury, leaving him paralyzed from the neck down. His plans to work and support his family from afar seemed shattered, and he suddenly faced an unimaginable reality—one filled with new uncertainty, financial struggles, and a complete shift in his aspirations. 

During the immigration process at the border, he learned about the resources available to him, including free legal assistance through IILA. With no financial means and an urgent need for legal support, he reached out to IILA for help.

His first contact was with a member of the IILA Immigration Legal Services Division (ILSD), who provided immediate guidance on obtaining a work permit and social security number. IILA took on his case, offering free legal assistance to apply for asylum—a crucial step toward securing a stable future in the U.S. 

Beyond legal aid, IILA provided Juan with essential resources through a dedicated Case Manager, including transportation assistance, enrollment in English classes, and the donation of a computer to help him pursue his education. These acts of support transformed his outlook, turning what once seemed like an insurmountable challenge into a path filled with opportunity. 

"One of the most special moments was receiving a computer," he shares. "I never had a computer of my own, and receiving one with such capacity left me speechless. I was so excited."

With IILA's assistance, he now envisions a future where he can continue his education, master the English language, and fully integrate into his new community. The asylum process has given him a renewed hope for a stable and fulfilling life. 

To others who have recently arrived in the U.S., he offers these words of encouragement: "Don't give up. Follow your dreams."

At IILA, we remain committed to supporting individuals like Juan Pérez, ensuring that every person who seeks refuge and a better future has access to the resources, legal assistance, and guidance they need to rebuild their lives. His story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of community support. Together, we can build brighter futures. 

Listen to Juan tell his story as part of an interview project with Our Heart Speaks: