Matthew Alaniz, originally from the border town El Paso, Texas, is a program facilitator for the New American Association of Massachusetts. During college, Matthew spent 4 years tutoring and directing after-school programming for children at Curwin Circle in Lynn. It is during this time that he discovered his heart for Lynn and its residents. Also while attending Gordon College, Matthew participated and led service trips to Tijuana, Mexico to serve children at La Casa de la Esperanza Orphanage. He continues to go back to this day to visit friends, support the staff, and maintain the virtual English classes that were started between Gordon College and La Casa when he finished his undergraduate degree. Matthew is passionate about hearing people’s stories and finding ways to best support them as they acclimate themselves to American society and culture. At NAAM, he supports both our Citizenship Program and Employment Ready Program through case management, while also coordinating other NAAM programs such as English classes, FLN, and Financial Assistance. In his free time, Matthew writes poetry and stays connected with friends and family.