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Our Mission
A New Awakening assists survivors of domestic violence through programs focused on intervention, prevention, counseling, training and education that address emotional, physical, financial and employment needs.
Our Vision
A New Awakening will stand out as an organization that creates communities free of violence, with strong, healthy and empowered families.
Our Team
Maria Ruiz
Founder & Executive Director
Maria Ruiz founded A New Awakening with very few material and financial resources, but she brought an incredible amount of dedication and knowledge and decades of involvement with organizations that support people experiencing domestic violence. Her passion for this work stems from the fact that she too survived a violent relationship, and she is always intentional about engaging survivors as organizational leaders. She has directly impacted the lives of thousands of people and created an organization that is recognized across the region for providing truly exceptional services.
Consuelo Gaborit
Outreach Coordinator
Silvia Morán is originally from Spain, Guatemala and is the mother of three sons. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Systems Administration and a master’s degree in Public Relations. Her professional background includes entrepreneurship, community education with Erie House—where she facilitated nutrition and Know Your Rights workshops—and outreach work with Un Nuevo Despertar, supporting individuals and families through access to information and essential resources.
She has served as a school crossing guard in Cicero for over ten years and is an Early Intervention Ambassador with the AOK Network, advocating for early support and prevention. Silvia is also the Founder and Director of the Miss Guatemala Coronation Committee in Cicero, Illinois, where her leadership has helped unite the Guatemalan community in celebrating culture, identity, and shared pride. Aligned with the mission of UND, her work is rooted in compassion, education, and empowerment, with a strong focus on strengthening families and building resilient communities.
Salomé Urquiza
Case Manager - Women's Support Group
Salomé Urquiza is a Mexican woman who emigrated to the United States over 30 years ago. At just 17, she completed a commercial degree and began her career as a Special Sales Director. Two years later, she moved to the U.S., starting anew like many immigrants, taking on management roles focused on service and helping others. Over the years, she has built a career leading teams with passion, supporting both their professional development and personal growth.
A survivor of domestic violence, Salomé now dedicates her life to empowering women who have faced similar challenges. She serves as a support group facilitator and case manager, guiding others toward healing and self-discovery. In addition, she is a financial educator and advocate for personal growth, empowerment, and mental well-being.
Mother of two accomplished children, Salomé finds her greatest fulfillment in helping others and witnessing women regain their confidence, embrace their worth, and truly flourish.
Gerardo Salinas
Case Manager - Personal Development Club for Men
Gerardo Salinas leads the Personal Development Club for Men. He develops, coordinates and facilitates presentations on mental, emotional, physical, legal and financial health topics, providing attendees/participants with the tools they need in daily life. Salinas has a degree in Latin American Studies, Human Development Studies and Political Science from the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). Salinas is a man who is passionate about supporting the community so that each member of the community can achieve their goals. He has overcome many personal and social barriers to achieve personal improvement. He believes that when a person is educated, informed and motivated, they can protect themselves and give the best of themselves to overcome any barrier in life. Salinas is also part of the world of communications as a communicator and online radio-tv presenter.
