Communities In Schools of New Mexico
Helping students reach graduation and college through dedicated school-based support
The work of Communities In Schools of New Mexico (CISNM) began in 1997, when retired educators Bill and Georgia Carson answered an appeal from a local elementary school principal. Working closely with members of the United Church of Santa Fe, the Carsons formed the nonprofit Salazar Partnership to provide resources and support to two high poverty elementary schools in Santa Fe. CISNM is dedicated to surrounding students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life. By placing site coordinators directly on school campuses, CISNM provides critical services to students facing significant barriers to academic success and empowers them to stay in school and achieve in life.
In 2012, the Salazar Partnership became an affiliate of Communities In Schools, Inc. For more than 40 years, Communities In Schools has been helping students to succeed in school, graduate and go on to a brighter future.
Communities In Schools of New Mexico’s 18 Student Success Facilitators serve approximately 5,500+ students and families through 14 Title One (high poverty) schools in New Mexico. Additionally, Communities In Schools of New Mexico provides free school and community suicide prevention trainings across New Mexico.
The Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention Program empowers school staff, students and community members with the knowledge and skills necessary to prevent suicides. Our trauma informed, culture centered trainings focus on connection, information and resources that promote understanding of youth mental health issues, emphasizing community assets, early detection and effective intervention. Trainings are provided for school staff, youth and community members.
Since Spring 2024, CISNM has facilitated Yellow Ribbon Suicide Prevention trainings in rural, tribal, and urban communities around the state through a personalized approach to meeting the distinct needs of each school/organization.
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The Santa Fe Community Foundation invited its nonprofit grantees to submit stories related to its May topic of Education.
La Clínica del Pueblo de Río Arriba
La Clínica del Pueblo de Río Arriba has been a trusted healthcare provider in northern New Mexico for more than 50 years, ensuring families in rural and remote communities can access quality, culturally responsive care close to home. Serving as a primary source of care for infants, toddlers, and caregivers in Rio Arriba County, the clinic recently launched La Clínica Baby Essentials — a new “baby bank” offering essential supplies, parenting education, and infant health screenings.
The Food Depot
Families need more than groceries to stay healthy and stable. That is why The Food Depot also operates Diaper Depot, providing diapers, wipes, and resources to hundreds of families each month. This wraparound program supports household well-being and helps families stay on a stronger path toward food security.
McCurdy Ministries
Local nonprofit McCurdy Ministries shares their story, including the early childhood programs that support young children and families in the Española Valley, offering care, education, and essential resources during critical early years.
