ALMA, which stands for Advocacy for Living in Mainstream America, was founded in 2006 by Pat Alvarez. Pat has been a fierce and unwavering advocate for individuals with disabilities for decades and currently serves on ALMA’s committee, lending her invaluable expertise. Her journey began when her son was born with Down syndrome, which ignited her passionate to fight for the rights of her son and for countless others like him who deserve a voice and representation. In 2020, Pat made the courageous decision to hand over the leadership of ALMA to the capable Patricia Ramirez, ensuring that the mission of advocacy continues to thrive.

In the year 2025, ALMA embarked on an innovative journey to transform Pat’s empowering vision into a tangible reality. The overarching mission of ALMA is to create opportunities and support systems that enable youth with intellectual disabilities to flourish and thrive throughout their entire lifespan. One of the essential goals we passionately strive to meet is assisting these young individuals in finding meaningful employment, thereby equipping them with the tools and resources necessary to become self-sufficient and lead fulfilling lives.

To do this effectively, ALMA must provide a nurturing and safe space for these young individuals to learn and grow in a supportive environment. ALMA actively employs youth at ALMA’s Boutique and offers comprehensive training programs that equip them with essential skills for their development.

ALMA needs your generous help in assisting our families and youth in the community. By pledging a donation today, you will be making a significant impact by helping us train dedicated volunteers, provide essential resources, and expand our programs to better serve those in need. Your support is crucial in empowering those who rely on us the most, fostering a brighter future for our community.