Rooted in Resilience, Guided by Compassion, Supporting Migrant Families With Humanity, Dignity and Hope.
Our Story
OASIS emerged in response to the great challenges faced by the migrant Latino community who have made the Pacific Northwest their home, especially Indigenous community members. By providing culturally and linguistically tailored guidance, OASIS supports individuals navigating local services during crises. What sets OASIS apart is its unwavering commitment to treating everyone with dignity, humanity, and empathy during these critical moments.
OASIS empowers individuals with the tools they need to navigate crises and emerge stronger, more self-reliant, and resilient. Collaboration is at the heart of OASIS’s approach; the organization believes that sustainable solutions arise when local organizations work together in harmony.
The OASIS team brings firsthand experience, extensive networks, and deep expertise to connect community members with equitable and just services—services that transcend societal perceptions and embrace the diverse ways individuals see the world.
Our Mission
OASIS is dedicated to compassionately assisting the migrant Latino community to improve their quality of life.
Meet Our Founders
Marcela Heubel-Suárez, a wife, mother, and grandmother originally from Bogotá, Colombia, has spent the past 13 years devoted to developing programs aimed at easing cultural barriers and improving access to healthcare for underserved populations. Her work has focused especially on supporting farmworker communities, including Indigenous groups living and working in the northern counties of Washington State.
Before moving to the United States, Marcela worked for 17 years in Colombia, guiding and training sales teams for multinational consumer goods and pharmaceutical companies. This experience gave her the tools to foster collaboration and structure programs that empower others to make a difference. Marcela has always believed that teamwork and shared purpose are vital to meaningful change.
During her time as manager of SeaMar's Promotores Program, Marcela was humbled to see the dedication and passion of her team make a tangible difference in the lives of others. Her efforts have been recognized with awards such as the Peacebuilder Award in 2019, the Beti Thompson Community Trailblazer Award in 2020, the Liberty Bell Award in 2024, and most recently, the Woman of Peace Award in 2025. Each of these honors represents the collective work and shared commitment of the teams and communities she has been privileged to serve.
Marcela’s deepest motivation is her desire to uplift others, especially those who have been marginalized or left behind. She feels profoundly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to this mission and sees her work as part of a larger effort, driven by many hands and hearts, to build a better future for our local communities!
Marcela Heubel-Suárez - FOUNDER
I am Nicol, a Latina woman who has faced numerous challenges throughout her life, turning each obstacle into an opportunity to grow, overcome fears, and instead of being defeated by adversity, I decided to transform these experiences into opportunities for growth and to become a source of inspiration and motivation for those around me. This profound desire to help and connect with my community led me to work as a community navigator in a nonprofit organization and later as the coordinator of a volunteer program serving farmworkers, with a special focus on indigenous communities from México and Guatemala. These experiences have strengthened my conviction about the power of empathy, teamwork, and commitment to collective well-being. I firmly believe in the importance of equity and in being a bridge of support for my community, promoting opportunities and fostering positive change.
For me, change begins at home, creating an impact that extends into the broader environment. My purpose is to inspire people to turn their challenges into opportunities for growth, helping them discover their potential and take advantage of the opportunities within their reach.
In my free time, I enjoy being with my family, exploring new places, and connecting with nature, which always renews my energy and perspective.
Nicol Zavala Montalvo - CO-FOUNDER
Our Values
Fostering Resiliency
OASIS uplifts what is already present and vibrant in community members (ability to survive, incredible talents, skills, culture)
Self-determination
Supporting people to be strongest they can be with the tools they need to navigate now and in future situations.
Restoring Humanity
OASIS recognizes the many experiences migrant Latinos face that are dehumanizing and works to retore belief in self, community, and humanity by extending dignity.
Cultural Appreciation
We value the beauty and uniqueness of different cultures. By learning from and respecting one another, we create a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Justice
We believe in treating everyone fairly and with respect. Our goal is to build a community where everyone feels supported and valued.
Empathy
We strive to understand and care for others' feelings and perspectives. By showing kindness and compassion, we create meaningful connections.
Our Vision
Our vision is to empower and support the Latino community in vulnerable situations by:
Breaking down barriers: Providing education, resources, and guidance to equip community members with the knowledge and confidence to navigate various systems.
Fostering self-sufficiency: Encouraging independence and resilience through practical tools and support.
Strengthening community connections: Building networks of support and understanding to foster a sense of belonging and collaboration.
