More Than Enough: On Identity, Healing, and Becoming – Meet Elvira Laguna
What inspired you to join Remarkably Us?
Joining Remarkably Us was primarily motivated by my personal journey of self-identity as an Afro-Latina and the challenges I faced in finding a community where I truly belonged. Throughout my life, I often grappled with not feeling “Latina enough,” which led to a sense of alienation and a search for acceptance. The creation of Remarkably Us represented a beacon of hope and inclusivity—a place where the nuances of Latin identity, especially for those like me who have navigated the complexities of being a former foster youth, are acknowledged and celebrated.
The organization’s commitment to fostering a safe and supportive environment for individuals with similar backgrounds deeply resonated with me. The opportunity to contribute to such a meaningful cause—to help others who might have experienced similar challenges—filled me with a profound sense of purpose and happiness. In Remarkably Us, I found not just a workplace but a community where I could embrace and share my unique identity and, in turn, empower others to do the same.
What is one of the most rewarding aspects of being a mom?
One of the most profoundly rewarding aspects of motherhood is witnessing the growth and development of my daughter. Observing her gentle and calm demeanor instills a deep sense of peace within me. It’s incredibly fulfilling to see her thrive in an environment where she feels confident, content, and—most importantly—free to experience the joys of childhood in a healthy setting.
This journey of motherhood has also been a healing experience for me, addressing and soothing parts of my inner child that were impacted by my own experiences with my birth mother. Before my daughter’s arrival, I thought I understood happiness, but her presence has brought a new depth of love and joy that is beyond words. Providing for her and offering her opportunities and experiences that were not part of my own childhood has been an immensely gratifying part of being a mother. Her existence has not only enriched my life but has also brought a sense of healing and wholeness, making motherhood uniquely rewarding.
As a former foster youth, how has becoming a mother influenced your perspective on family?
Becoming a mother has profoundly reshaped my understanding of what family means, especially coming from a background as a former foster youth. Being her mother has taught me that there is no set manual for being an exceptional parent; it is a journey of continuous learning and growth.
Recognizing the significant role that both her father and I play in shaping her worldview, self-perception, and development has been a guiding force in my approach to parenting. I aim to ensure she grows up to be the best version of herself, embracing her individuality and strengths.
My personal experience of growing up without a stable family dynamic or a traditional sense of family has fueled my determination to provide a different reality for my daughter. I strive to give her the experience of a cohesive family unit, where relationships with cousins and extended family members are not just obligatory but are bonds that are cherished and nurtured. As I grow alongside my daughter, I am increasingly aware of the critical importance of family relationships. This understanding continues to shape my actions and decisions as I work to create the nurturing and stable environment I did not have, highlighting the transformative impact of motherhood on my perspective of family.
Tell us about one of your biggest accomplishments as a community advocate.
One of my most significant achievements as a community advocate occurred during my tenure in residential care. This milestone involved a young individual with a complex and troubled background, marked by gang involvement and repeated incarcerations. Their history made them a less desirable candidate for many of our partnering agencies, leaving them without options for housing.
I decided to personally interview the individual while they were incarcerated, and during our interaction, I felt a deep connection with their genuine desire for change—a desire that had been consistently overlooked. Moved by their situation, I advocated fiercely on their behalf and successfully integrated them into our program.
Although their time under our care was brief, I firmly believe that the support and guidance provided left a lasting impact. This belief was confirmed when I recently received a call from this individual, who is now thriving independently, employed, and pursuing education. They expressed gratitude for the opportunity I had given them, crediting their experience in our program as a pivotal point in their journey.
This experience was a profound reminder that while individuals may not always be ready for change at the moment we meet them, it does not mean they are incapable of evolving. It underscored the importance of providing support and believing in people’s potential, regardless of their past, and has been a defining moment in my career as a community advocate.
Tell us more about your passion project, Elvira’s Place.
Elvira’s Place is a deeply personal and impactful nonprofit organization that I founded in 2021, named in honor of my mother. The inspiration for this project stemmed from my desire to create a lasting, positive legacy that contrasts with the challenging life my mother experienced.
The core mission of Elvira’s Place is to provide vital financial support to former foster youth who are 25 years old and above. This age group often finds themselves in a crucial transition period of life, yet they typically receive less attention and fewer resources compared to younger foster youth. Our services range from offering scholarships for education to assisting with rental payments and supplying groceries.
This initiative was born out of my own transformative experience as a recipient of similar support from Echoes of Hope after I turned 25. It was a pivotal moment for me, highlighting the significant lack of programs catering to the unique needs of older former foster youth. By stepping in to fill this gap, Elvira’s Place aims to ease the challenges faced by these individuals as they navigate adulthood, providing them with the resources and support needed to build stable, successful futures.
This project is not just a tribute to my mother but also a commitment to empowering a frequently overlooked segment of our community, driven by my personal journey and understanding of their struggles.
Tell me a fun fact about yourself.
A delightful and somewhat unexpected aspect of my personality—one that often surprises those who know me—is my deep-seated passion for country music. This genre, with its unique blend of storytelling and melodic rhythms, holds a special place in my heart.
Despite not being widely known among my acquaintances and peers, my enthusiasm for country music is immense and enduring. From the soulful lyrics to the distinctive twangs characteristic of country tunes, this genre resonates with me on a profound level. I find a unique sense of joy and connection in country music—a genre I have cherished for a long time and will continue to love. This musical preference adds an interesting dimension to my personality, reflecting the diverse and unexpected facets that make up who I am.
