The Gift of Proximity

One of the greatest gifts of this work is the privilege of walking alongside the Capo Villas residents; families, elders, and young people who remind us, daily, of the beauty found in community. In my role at Unidos South OC, I get to wear many hats. Some days, I am working with children, witnessing their boundless energy and the way they turn even the simplest moments into something sacred. Other days, I stand with parents and elders, hearing their stories, sharing their hopes, and watching resilience take shape in real time. And then there are the volunteers, each bringing their own joys, their own time and talents, creating something much larger than any of us could do alone.

This is the work of proximity; of showing up, again and again, for and with one another. Each piece of this community weaves into the next, a tapestry of voices, experiences, and relationships that make us stronger.

In a world that often pushes us toward isolation, there is something radical about choosing to stay near, to stay engaged, to stay present. Community is not built in the abstract, it is built in the daily practice of showing up.

I am grateful to be part of this work, to witness the joys and challenges of real people in real time. And I am grateful for you, whether near or far, involved in big ways or small, your presence and care are felt.

Ester Ocampo

Event and Volunteer Coordinator