Hello friends and family,

My name is Luis Villanueva and I was born in Ciudad Juarez, Mexico. I was brought to the United States when I was 9 years old, and since arriving, it has become my dream to study, learn English, and establish a career for myself to provide for my family. In high school, I was an honor student with a 4.7 GPA who was also highly involved in many activities. I led my marching band as drum major and was treasurer of the Springdale Honor Society. In my spare time, I volunteered for the Salvation Army, House of Hope food pantry and the Arkansas Retirement Home. During my three years at the University of Central Arkansas, I have maintained a 4.0 GPA and I served as drum major in the marching band. I have built lasting bonds with my mentors and peers. In my time in this country, my teachers instilled in me a passion for music. Now, I aspire to become a music teacher so that I can show future generations how music can bring the community together.

I began the naturalization process in 2018, with the hopes of obtaining permanent residency. After 3 and a half years of overcoming many trials and obstacles, I received an appointment for my naturalization interview at the United States Embassy/Consulate in Juarez. Upon my arrival it was determined that I had been deported and would not be allowed back into the states for 10 years. My family and I were completely blindsided. We have worked for years to correctly gain residency and now we must seek the help of an immigration lawyer.

Everything that I hold dear is back home in Arkansas and I am heartbroken to be kept away from my family. I am now in a land that is not my home, with only the belongings I brought for my brief stay in Mexico. Your financial support would provide me with an immigration lawyer to help me find my way back home.

If you find it in your heart to aid my family and to help fund an immigration lawyer, I would be eternally grateful for any assistance.

-Luis