A Letter from the Founders

Dear Friends,

Our journey with Como Comunidad has been shaped by experiences, relationships, and a calling to serve. My wife, Maribel, and I have been working in communities for over 20 years, with the last 9 years focused on Missouri’s Hispanic community. Our story together began many years ago when we first met in the mountains of Oaxaca, Mexico. I was on a senior class trip, helping build a community center and working with underserved kids through outreach programs. Maribel, who worked full-time with a missionary couple on various projects, continued their mission even after the couple retired.

We got married ten years later—though I always joke that it took Maribel a full decade to become desperate enough to say yes. After settling in Missouri, we continued our passion for serving others, supporting refugee families, helping people navigate the immigration process, translating at hospitals and government offices, and simply being a comforting presence for those in need. Sometimes, all it takes is sharing a meal to remind someone they’re not alone.

One night, we received a call for help from a man we’ll call Peter. He had lost his job due to severe alcoholism, had nowhere to go, and reached out to us in desperation. We took him in and helped find temporary housing, but the real challenge began when we started calling rehabilitation centers. Over three exhausting days, we contacted one facility after another, only to hear “no” again and again. Each place had requirements Peter couldn’t meet—requirements that felt impossible for someone struggling with addiction, language barriers, and unfamiliarity with U.S. healthcare systems.

I remember looking at Maribel after yet another rejection, saying, “How do they expect someone who doesn’t speak English and hasn’t lived here their whole life to find help?” That moment became a turning point. We realized the gaps in support were too big for us to fill alone. Even with the help of our church and friends, it wasn’t enough—we needed to build something larger. We needed a community that could make a real difference.

And so, Como Comunidad was born. We began the long, challenging journey of starting a nonprofit from scratch, with a vision to build bridges that connect individuals and families to the resources they need. With the encouragement of like-minded friends, businesses, and organizations, we filed for our 501(c)(3) status in September 2024. This is just the beginning, and we’re excited to see what lies ahead.

We already receive calls for help every week—people seeking support, guidance, and hope. But we can’t do it alone. We need the support of others who share our heart for this mission. If you feel led to join us—whether by donating, volunteering, or simply praying—we would be deeply grateful. Your support will help us build the bridges that empower communities and change lives.

Thank you for believing in this mission.

Jaymes Schrock

Founder & President, Como Comunidad, Inc