ABOUT US

History of Sol Forastero

When Raquel Henriquez, founder of Sol Forastero, first arrived in the United States from Central America, El Salvador, she found herself navigating a maze of unfamiliar systems, languages, and cultural expectations with little support. Like many immigrants, she faced the isolating reality of being a stranger in a strange land, left to figure out the basics of daily life on her own. This experience of feeling unmoored yet determined became the catalyst for Sol Forastero, a nonprofit organization dedicated to offering a guiding hand to Latinos arriving in the U.S.
 
The name “Sol Forastero” was born from the lyrics of the song by Miguel Bosé, which translates to “Stranger Sun.” The song tells a story of a distant sun that still shines brightly despite being far from home, a poetic reflection of the immigrant experience. For Raquel Henriquez, these lyrics resonated deeply, encapsulating the loneliness and hope that characterize the journey of so many Latinos seeking a better life.
 
“As immigrants, we often find ourselves feeling like strangers, out of place, and without the support we need,” Raquel Henriquez says. “Sol Forastero is about being that sun, that beacon of light for those who are in the dark, just as I once was.”
 
 
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MISSION

At Sol Forastero, we believe everyone deserves a chance to thrive, no matter where their journey began. Rooted in compassion and driven by hope, we are dedicated to uplifting the hispanic community by providing access to resources, education and a strong network of support. In times of uncertainty, we stand by individuals and families, empowering them to build lives of dignity, security and resilience.
Extending our hearts and hands to El Salvador, the founder’s home country, we are also committed to nurturing the wellbeing of underprivileged communities. Together, we work to create opportunities, inspire success and build brighter futures for all.

VISION

To cultivate an empowered and resilient Latino immigrant community where every individual thrives through comprehensive support systems. We envision a future where financial literacy transforms lives, where first-generation college students are guided and celebrated to achieve their dreams, and where DACA participants find opportunities and security. Our commitment to affordable housing advocacy ensures every family has a place to call home, while our pioneering mental health and rehabilitation programs break the stigma and foster holistic well-being. Together, we build a community of hope, strength, and boundless potential.

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CONTACT US

 
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