Our community has always been built on hard work, compassion, and looking out for one another. Today, we are coming together to support someone who is our friend Carlos, a local graduate and valued member of Amherst.

Carlos is currently being held on an ICE hold and detained. He is in need of legal services to help expedite the process of obtaining a bond hearing and legal review of his pending immigration case.

Carlos and his family came to the United States seeking asylum from Nicaragua. Since arriving, they have taken every required step to remain here legally including obtaining work authorizations, driver’s licenses, and establishing themselves as contributing residents of our community.

For years, Carlos and his family have lived and worked in Amherst, dedicating long hours not only to support themselves but also to help provide for family members back home in their native country. They have quietly built their lives through hard work, responsibility, and perseverance.

When Carlos moved to Amherst, he enrolled in school and quickly became part of a welcoming and supportive community. He was proud to participate in local sports programs, where he shined through his talent and passion for soccer. Carlos graduated this past year and has since been working full time, saving toward his goal of one day purchasing a home and continuing to build his future here.

This journey was unexpectedly interrupted on Monday when Carlos was arrested at work related to a traffic citation incident from weeks prior. Although he was eligible for a signature bond and was expected to be released, the timing of an ICE transfer resulted in a hold being placed under standard procedures. Instead of being released locally, Carlos was transferred from Portage County to another holding facility in Wisconsin for ICE detainees.

At this time, the timeline for resolution is uncertain. With the assistance of an experienced immigration attorney, Carlos can receive representation to help move the process forward and ensure his rights and legal status are properly reviewed which can be incredibly difficult to navigate alone while detained.

This fundraiser is not about politics.

It is not about blame or division.

It is about support.

It is about hope.

It is about standing beside one of our own during an incredibly frightening and uncertain time.

Legal representation in immigration matters is costly, and funds raised will go directly toward attorney fees and related legal expenses to help Carlos secure a bond hearing and proper legal advocacy.

We ask that this space remain one of kindness, encouragement, and unity. Carlos is a young man with goals, dreams, and a future he has been working hard to build within this community.

Please keep Carlos and his family in your thoughts and prayers. Send hope that this process moves quickly and safely so he can return to his freedom and continue pursuing the life he has worked so hard to create. We can only imagine the physical and emotional challenges he is facing while navigating this experience in detention.

If you are able to give, thank you.

If you cannot give, sharing this campaign is equally meaningful.

Together, we can help carry this burden and remind Carlos and his family that this community stands with them. Thank you for all the kind messages that have already been received and shared with the family. Carlos and his family are incredibly grateful.