About Ignite Community Connections
At Ignite Community Connections, we believe that true change begins with connection — to ourselves, to each other, and to the natural world. Our work is rooted in the experiences of immigrant, Latine, and underrepresented communities in San José and beyond.
Our Story
Ignite Community Connections grew out of a simple yet powerful idea: communities thrive when people feel seen, supported, and empowered. What began as neighborhood hikes and organizing efforts has grown into a multifaceted practice that includes:
Community power-building through organizing, campaign strategy, and leadership development.
Wellness and resilience through yoga, retreats, and workshops designed for immigrant women and leaders navigating stress.
Connection to nature through the Reconnect Outdoors program, which has introduced families to the joy and healing of the outdoors, from local parks to the ocean.
Through this work, we have supported families at risk of chronic illness, created spaces for healing and cultural reconnection, and guided organizations toward more equitable, democratic ways of working.
Who We Serve
Our work centers Latine, immigrant, black, indigenous, and communities of color, particularly families and leaders who have historically faced systemic barriers. We collaborate with nonprofits, coalitions, government agencies and community groups who share our vision of equity, resilience, and joy.
Why It Matters
The challenges facing our communities are vast, from housing insecurity to health disparities to climate change. Yet within these challenges lies the power of people and place. By fostering connection to community, to self, and to nature, we cultivate resilience and open new possibilities for healing and transformation.
Our Vision
We envision communities where individuals are grounded in self-awareness, organizations are led with inclusivity, and our relationship with nature guides sustainable and joyful futures
Our Approach
Connection to Self
We cultivate practices that help us pause, reflect, and reconnect with our own purpose and well-being.
Connection to Community
We create spaces for collaboration, leadership, and collective growth where every voice matters and shared power leads the way.
Connection to Nature
We root ourselves in the wisdom of the natural world, finding healing, balance, and inspiration through time outdoors together.
Our Principal Consultant
Hello! I'm Mayra, the founder and principal consultant of Ignite Community Connections. With over 10 years of experience in organizational development, I specialize in helping organizations create sustainable practices for community building. My approach is community-centered, and I'm passionate about delivering customized solutions that drive success. When I'm not consulting, I enjoy hanging out with my cats, hiking and exploring national parks.
Core Values
Love & Humility
We are carried by love and humility, like wind scattering seeds that bloom in unseen places, fostering compassion, respect, and belonging that create lasting transformation.
Interdependence
We recognize that our wellbeing is bound together. We act with care, reciprocity, and responsibility, knowing our choices ripple across people, communities, and generations
Groundedness
We cultivate presence and self-awareness, staying rooted in our bodies and communities so that our actions emerge with clarity and balance.
Accountability & Responsibility
We act with integrity and transparency, honoring our commitments and owning the impact of our choices
Becoming
We embrace the journey of continuous growth, welcoming curiosity and transformation as paths to becoming fuller versions of ourselves.
Curiosity & Wonder
We approach ourselves, people, and communities with openness and awe, inviting learning, creativity, and new possibilities into everything we do.
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Ignite Community Connections.
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