About Us

Belkis Sulay Torrez was born in Barquisimeto, Lara, Venezuela. In 2018 she moved to La Paz- Mexico, for one and a half years. In 2019 Belkis came to the United States. She began her university studies in 1978 at the Pedagógica Experimental Libertador (Libertador Pedagogical Experimental University) in Barquisimeto, a city on the Turbio River and the capital of Lara state in northwestern Venezuela. Belkis graduated in 1985 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Education. From 1998 to 2000, she did post-graduate studies at the Centro de Investigación of Psiquiátrica, Psicológica y Sexológica de Venezuela (Venezuelan Psychiatric, Psychological and Sexological Research Center) based in Caracas, D.F., Venezuela. Belkis graduated with a Master of Science in Behavioral Science. From 2002 to 2006, Belkis studied at the Santa María (Holy Mary) University based in Caracas, D.F., Venezuela, graduating with a Doctorate in Education Science. In 2006 she graduated as a Radio Announcer with certificate #38.083; the same year, she was accredited as an Independent National Producer #14.587.

Cisily is a dedicated advocate for the Latino community in West Michigan. She provides translation and advocacy support for essential services. For two years, she has been working with domestic violence survivors, offering education and support on how we can collectively work to end domestic violence. Her commitment extends to projects significantly progressing at the city, county, and state levels. Cisily is focused on increasing outreach to Latinos and ensuring they have access to vital resources and assistance to foster lasting and equitable change.

Born and raised in Acapulco, Guerrero, Mexico. In 2002, she arrived in Illinois, where she learned English at Triton College. She has five beautiful children and a grandson. Julieta enjoys taking her dog Nato for walks and has recently adopted her cat Kika which she adores. Julieta acquired management skills while working at Start Sampling Inc. and other companies. In 2011, she moved to the city of Grand Rapids, MI, where she gained personal management skills in different capacities, managing over 60 employees. Julieta has always had a passion for giving back to the community, and in 2019, as a client of Puertas Abiertas, she began the journey. Julieta started volunteering for the organization and had the opportunity to intern at the Kent District Library, doing outreach in the community. Currently, she serves as the Program Manager at Puertas Abiertas, bringing a significant number of opportunities to the clients through community partnerships and addressing their needs.

Liszet Chavez-Johnson recently joined Puertas Abiertas. She was originally from San Luis Potosí, Mexico, and was raised in Grand Rapids, MI. She graduated from Ashford University in 2019, earning a master’s degree in Criminal Justice, focusing on law enforcement and corrections administration. Liszet is a mother of three and recently adopted her dog, Wizard, from the animal shelter. She enjoys watching movies and crime shows and spending time outdoors with her children and dog. Currently, she works with Bethany Christian Services, assisting unaccompanied refugee minors. Previously, she supported adults in various rehabilitation programs. Liszet has a passion and heart for helping those in need and is excited to be part of this team.

Sarai is a native of Grand Rapids, MI, and is currently pursuing a master's degree in social work at GVSU. She has extensive experience working with immigrants and other Latinx individuals in both the Wyoming and Grand Rapids communities. Previously, Sarai worked at a local school, where she was instrumental in developing school-community partnerships and supporting parents and students. Sarai likes to read books, paint, or explore the outdoors in her free time. She is a proud owner of a cat named Sid.

Growing up I had a unique experience as a migrant farmworker, constantly moving between Florida and Michigan to follow the harvest. Despite the challenges I managed to attend school and acquire valuable skills. This unique upbringing exposed me to diverse cultures and instilled a deep appreciation for hard work and determination. I then pursued a higher education, armed with desire to make a difference, I embarked on a path of service by working in various non-profit organizations and found Puertas Abiertas. I am now proud to serve as a manager for this non-profit organization and with years of experience, I have developed a strong passion for making a positive impact in our community. In my capacity as a manager for the bilingual advocates, I oversee various aspects of our organization. I strive to foster an environment that encourages collaboration, innovation, and growth, ensuring that our team works efficiently to fulfill our mission. Additionally, I am also a Bilingual advocate. This skill allows me to effectively engage with diverse communities, breaking down language barriers and facilitating meaningful communication. I am dedicated to promoting inclusivity and ensuring that everyone has equal access to the service and resources we provide.

Born and raised in the City of Grand Rapids, but Mexican at heart from both parents from Morelos and Jalisco. She is currently a student at Grand Valley State University with a Bachelor's in Social Work, working towards her Master's in Social Work (MSW) and a minor in Spanish and Psychology while doing a lot of extracurriculars towards her community. Daniela plans to learn more about West Michigan and the Latinx community with one more year left in school. Daniela likes to spend time with her family and her adorable son but also likes to go out to the community and spend time with clients that require assistance, specifically with elder groups and kids. She has been working at Puertas Abiertas for almost a year. After learning so much, Daniela loves what she does. She is highly tech-savvy and manages to use many software programs at her school and work setting. Daniela would love to share her knowledge with others.

Jessica was born in Holland, Michigan, but because her parents were seasonal farm workers, she moved to and grew up in Florida. She returned to Michigan to complete her undergraduate studies at Michigan State University. She graduated with a minor in Psychology and a minor in Human Behavior and Social Services. Jessica is currently an instructor for the MSU HEP program that helps adults earn their GED. She is also working with Your Solutions Foster Care Youth Project, which helps youth who have recently left foster care.

Melissa Lucas recently joined Puertas Abiertas as a mental health therapist. She graduated from Grand Valley State University (GVSU) in 2019 and received a master's in social work. Currently, Melissa works at Bethany Christian Services, working with unaccompanied refugee minors. Before that, she worked in a case management role serving refugees in the foster care population. Melissa is excited to continue serving the community and increasing mental health awareness. She believes in empowering clients to make informed decisions by providing them with the psychoeducation they need to be successful.

Yesenia was born in Mexico. She immigrated to the United States at 17, after completing a two-year course at Business School, with a certification as a shorthand-typing secretary. Yesenia has worked at Michigan State University Extension for 21 years as a Community Nutrition Instructor for the community of Grand Rapids. In her free time, she worked as a caregiver for the elderly. Yesenia’s passion has always been to help those who need the most. She started working for Puertas Abiertas because they accepted me as one of their own. She is proud to be able to continue helping the community.