Stories
International Programs: Promoting Health, Hope, and Community Development around the world
At Advance, we believe that meaningful international work begins by listening. Real development doesn’t come from ready-made solutions or outside interventions, it grows from participation, collaboration, and long-term relationships. That’s why our international programs are...
Read moreMeeting People Where They Are: How We Tailor Education to Community Needs
At Advance, we believe that meaningful health education begins by meeting people where they are, not just physically, but emotionally, culturally, and socially. Our programs are built with this philosophy at the core: tailoring content...
Read moreRamone Doesn’t Have to Search for Food Anymore
Ramone used to spend part of every day wondering where his next meal would come from. At 61 years old, he has faced more challenges than he ever expected. A year ago, he lost his...
Read moreYeferson’s Smile Is Growing Stronger Every Day
Five-month-old Yeferson Jacobo Ixcotoyac Pinula is always smiling. He is a cheerful baby who lights up when people talk to him. But behind his bright smile, his family was carrying a heavy burden. Yeferson was...
Read moreBuilding Healthy Foundations: How We Teach Kids Healthy Habits That Last
One of my favorite parts of working with our youth is teaching them about health and wellness. Many kids are never taught how simple everyday choices can impact their health, so I enjoy creating opportunities...
Read moreMore Than a Mission: What Leading Advance Community Has Taught Me About Building Community
When people ask me what Advance Community does, I often talk about health, nutrition, opportunity, and access. I share stories about surgical teams changing lives in Peru, healthy food reaching families in Arizona, and community...
Read moreHelping Maria: A Turning Point for a First-Time Mom
Maria cradled her crying newborn, tears filling her eyes. With every tiny wail, hear heart broke a little more. He needed a clean diaper. But she only had three. The one he was wearing was already dirty. The other...
Read moreVolunteers at the Center: How We Turn Volunteering into Connection and Community
Volunteers are not just an extension of our organization. They are at the heart of how we move our mission forward. What they bring goes far beyond service. It’s about showing up, building connections, and becoming part of...
Read moreWhat’s in a Nutrition Box? What’s Inside and Why It Matters
A fresh food box is more than a collection of groceries, it’s a thoughtful response to a very real need: access to nutritious, high-quality food. In my role as the Nutrition Program Coordinator, it is my responsibility to use my knowledge...
Read moreStep Up Your Impact with Corporate Matching Gifts
Many companies offer corporate matching gift programs to encourage charitable giving. These programs match employee donations to eligible nonprofits, effectively increasing the impact of every gift. While many companies match donations at a 1:1 ratio—doubling...
Read moreSupport Your Community Through Corporate Volunteer Grant Programs
Many companies offer corporate volunteer grant programs, which provide financial donations to nonprofits based on the volunteer hours their employees contribute. These programs are a simple way to make an even bigger impact: employees give...
Read moreSpeaking for a Mission: Sharing Advance’s Voice with Intention
At Advance Community, I get to see the impact of our work firsthand. I’ve attended classes with the health and wellness team and watched participants not only learn, but truly engage and appreciate what’s being shared. Being in those spaces reminds...
Read more