NANOS IN ACTION

Location: Ridgewood,
New York

Ñaños in Action. 

 ABOUT US: Ñaños in Action is a grassroots nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting vulnerable communities in Ecuador, empowering Latino immigrants in New York City, and fostering connections among first-generation Latinos and the Ecuadorian immigrant community. Our name, “Ñaños,” comes from the Ecuadorian term for brothers and sisters, symbolizing our commitment to community, cultural heritage, and shared responsibility.

We focus on providing aid, resources, and support to immigrants, children, the elderly, and animals in need through community-driven initiatives. Our work bridges cultures and strengthens ties between Ecuador and the U.S., ensuring that no one is left behind.

 

MISSION STATEMENT: 

Ñaños in Action is dedicated to empowering Ecuadorian and Latino immigrant communities in New York City and Ecuador through essential resources, education, and cultural connections. We aim to create a strong, supportive network that links immigrants with their home communities, while promoting unity, compassion, and positive change. At Ñaños in Action, we believe in the power of community—rooted in shared culture, heritage, and a commitment to uplift those in need.

Tax mission: Nanos in Action empowers Ecuadorian and Latino immigrant communities in NYC and Ecuador through aid, education, and cultural connections. We build networks linking immigrants with their home communities while fostering positive change through unity.  

 

VISION STATEMENT:

We envision a world where Ecuadorian and Latino immigrant communities thrive through unity, compassion, and mutual support. Our goal is to foster a global network that uplifts families, values the elderly, nurtures children, and cares for animals—ensuring a brighter, more resilient future for all.

Ñaños in Action is committed to creating a world where every individual, whether in Ecuador or the U.S., feels valued, supported, and connected to their roots.

ORIGIN STORY: 

Ñaños in Action was founded by a first-generation Latina with deep roots in Ecuador. Inspired by her experiences navigating life between two cultures—growing up in Ecuador and later building a life in New York City—she recognized the unique challenges faced by immigrant communities, especially children, the elderly, and animals.

This personal journey sparked a passion for giving back and led to the creation of Ñaños in Action. The organization serves as a bridge between Ecuador and the U.S., honoring cultural heritage while addressing the pressing needs of immigrant families.

The name “Ñaños,” meaning brothers and sisters, reflects our mission to create a familial bond within our community—treating everyone as part of our extended family, whether in Ecuador or the U.S., human or animal. Through love, service, and empowerment, we strive to build a world where everyone can thrive.

OUR WORK:

At Ñaños in Action, we focus on several key areas to support vulnerable communities:

Immigrant Support

At Ñaños in Action, we understand the challenges faced by Latino immigrants in New York City. That’s why we offer a variety of resources, workshops, and tailored services to help newcomers navigate their new lives and thrive in their adopted home.

One of our cornerstone programs is “Navegando Juntos” (Navigating Together), a workshop designed to provide practical guidance on how to navigate essential services in the U.S., from healthcare and housing to legal rights and employment. We also provide Welcome Packages for newly arrived immigrants, containing essential items and information to help them settle in NYC. These packages include guides to community resources, basic necessities, and tips for adjusting to life in a new country. Through these efforts, we aim to ensure that Latino immigrants feel supported and empowered as they begin their new lives here.

Community Building

We are dedicated to strengthening the network of first-generation Latinos and Ecuadorian immigrants in New York City. Our mission is to create a supportive community where individuals can rely on one another for help, guidance, and mutual growth.

By building a strong, interconnected network, we offer a space where community members can share resources, job opportunities, and personal experiences to overcome the challenges of life in a new country. This network also serves as a bridge to the immigrant community’s families and loved ones back in Ecuador. We empower first-generation Latinos to thrive by supporting each other every step of the way.

Annual Toy Drives

Every year, Ñaños in Action organizes Annual Toy Drives to bring joy to children in need in Ecuador. Our toy drives collect new and gently used toys, clothes, and school supplies to distribute to underprivileged children in rural areas and low-income communities.

These drives are an opportunity for both our local community in NYC and our supporters back home to come together for a shared cause. Through the generosity of donors, we are able to put smiles on the faces of children and create lasting memories during the holiday season. This initiative not only spreads joy but strengthens the bonds between Ecuadorian immigrants in the U.S. and their families in Ecuador.

Senior Support

At Ñaños in Action, we recognize the importance of caring for our elders. Many seniors, both in New York and Ecuador, face isolation and limited access to care. That’s why we organize events and provide direct assistance to elderly individuals in senior homes and communities.

We host Senior Social Events to ensure that elderly individuals have opportunities for social engagement and community connection. These events provide a safe space for seniors to share stories, enjoy cultural activities, and feel supported by their peers. Additionally, we assist with essential needs such as food, ensuring that our seniors feel cared for and connected to their communities, whether here in NYC or back in Ecuador.

 

Animal Welfare

Our commitment to the well-being of all members of our community extends to animals in need. Through our Animal Welfare Initiatives, we support stray dogs and cats in Ecuador, helping to ensure they receive the care and attention they deserve.

We organize Pet Food Drives, raise awareness about animal rights, and support local shelters with supplies and resources. By working closely with animal welfare organizations in Ecuador, we strive to reduce the number of abandoned animals and improve their quality of life. Our goal is to create a compassionate, responsible community that cares for both people and animals alike.

Education Initiatives

Ñaños in Action is passionate about empowering individuals through education. Our Education Initiatives offer dynamic workshops for both children and adults, providing tools for personal and professional growth. We host workshops like Vision Board Creation, where participants set goals and learn how to visualize and achieve their aspirations.

Cultural Exchange

Ñaños in Action offers Cultural Exchange Programs that provide opportunities for community members to engage in meaningful volunteer work in Ecuador. These programs allow participants to contribute directly to their communities, creating lasting bonds and promoting cultural understanding.

Our volunteers can participate in initiatives such as building infrastructure in rural areas, teaching English to students, or organizing health clinics in underserved communities. These experiences not only enrich the lives of the volunteers but also help strengthen the relationship between Latinos in the U.S. and their home communities in Ecuador. Through these exchanges, we create a powerful sense of unity and shared purpose, bridging cultures and building a global network of support.

WHY WE DO IT

Our organization is driven by a passion for service and a deep connection to the Ecuadorian and Latino cultures. By uniting as Ñaños—brothers and sisters—we believe we can create a powerful support network that transcends borders, strengthens families, and uplifts entire communities.

Through our work, we aim to create a strong, supportive ecosystem that honors our roots while building a better future for all. Together, we are stronger. Together, we are Ñaños in Action.

 

JOIN US

We invite you to join us in our mission to build a more compassionate and united world. Whether through volunteer opportunities, donations, or simply spreading the word, your involvement helps us bring about lasting, positive change. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of families in need—both in Ecuador and here in New York City.

Together, we are Ñaños in Action.

 

Immigrant Support
We provide resources, workshops, and services tailored to Latino immigrants in NYC, helping them navigate their new lives and thrive in their adopted home.

Community Building
We create a strong network of first-generation Latinos and Ecuadorian immigrants in NYC, fostering support, cultural ties, and connections to communities in Ecuador.

Annual Toy Drives
Our yearly toy drives bring joy to children in need in Ecuador, spreading love and holiday cheer to underserved communities.

Senior Support
We organize events and offer assistance to elderly individuals in senior homes, ensuring they feel cared for and connected to their community.

Animal Welfare
Through pet food drives and other initiatives, we support stray animals in Ecuador, helping to improve their well-being.

Education Initiatives
Our workshops for children and adults empower the Latino community in NYC with tools for success. We offer sessions on vision board creation and resource navigation, helping participants access vital services and achieve their goals.

Cultural Exchange
We celebrate Ecuadorian and Latino cultures through events and programs that foster connection. Our cultural exchange initiatives also provide opportunities for meaningful volunteer work in Ecuador, strengthening cross-cultural ties.

 

Host a Kit Pack

Kit Packing

Most Needed Kits for NANOS IN ACTION

We’re here to help you get involved in your local community and truly make a difference. Whether you’re looking for more information about the charities we partner with or it’s time to get started, get in touch with us today. After you’ve completed the form below, a member of our team will be in touch with you.

Create, organize and manage Volunteer