Arturo González Vargas: From Mexico, with Love, Art, and Compassion

If you ever needed convincing that Arturo González Vargas was passionate about the power of non-profits to transform lives, spend just five minutes with this young man to dispel any doubts.  For 18 months, the Grand Rapids Community had the privilege of sharing his wisdom, energy, and optimism for all things empowerment.  An Atlas Fellow from Monterrey, Mexico, Gonzalez Vargas worked as a tireless advocate for Kids Food Basket, an organization providing daily nutrition to thousands of school children in Western Michigan.

Takunda Mavima: Second Chance, One Choice

Three years ago, Takunda Mavima had the world by the tail.  He was an immigrant child whose family had worked its way into Middle America. He was an honors student who’d recently attended his senior prom.  With a scholarship to Grand Valley State University, he was poised to enroll in the pre-pharmacy program and chase his professional dreams.  Then, a night of drinking turned his life literally upside down.  In this interview, we look at tragedy, forgiveness, and a rise from the ashes.

Sook Wilkinson: Psychologist

Alan interviews Sook Wilkinson. To keep up to date on our shows follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or check out our website at Feellikeyoubelong.com

 Psychologist Sook Wilkinson dedicated herself to understanding the complexities of international adoption and wrote two books on the subject. Now retired from clinical practice, she is a member of the Michigan Asian Pacific American Affairs Commission, advocating for the state's largest growing minority.

Reyna Grande: Award-Winning Author

The youngest of three children, Reyna Grande was born into poverty in Iguala, Mexico and raised through early childhood by her grandparents after her parents immigrated illegally into the United States in search of work to feed their family.  Her coming-of-age story will inspire all of us who identify with the underdog who doesn't give up.  Join us as we talk with the plucky young woman who went on to become an American citizen, mother of two, and award-winning author.