Success Story: Maribel
From Uncertainty to Opportunity: How Advance Parole and a Green Card Changed Maribel’s Life
When Maribel Portales arrived in the United States at just 14 years old, she had no idea what the future would hold. Like many young people who grew up in this country under DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), she found stability in the program — but no clear path to permanent residency. DACA allowed her to work and remain in the country legally, but without a long-term solution, the future was always uncertain.
That’s when she came to the Center for Legal Immigration Assistance (CLIA).
CLIA’s legal team worked closely with Maribel to pursue a process called advance parole — a legal mechanism that allows certain DACA recipients to leave the country and return lawfully. It’s a complicated step, but one that can open the door to permanent residency when used strategically.
Maribel was approved, and in 2024, she boarded a flight to Mexico for the first time in decades.
“I was crying and had intense emotions when the pilot announced, ‘We are now entering Mexico,’” she recalls. “It had been so long since I’d seen my loved ones. I was able to take my kids to visit my family and my homeland. It was everything.”
That moment wasn’t just emotional — it was pivotal. Her lawful return to the United States made it possible for CLIA to take the next step: filing for adjustment of status based on a U.S. citizen family member. Maribel’s son, now over 21, was able to petition for her green card.
“Ellie was very attentive and kind to me,” Maribel shared. “The day I got my card, I was overwhelmed with joy. I couldn’t believe it.”
Today, Maribel is a permanent resident. She’s building a future for herself and her family with confidence — and without fear.
At CLIA, this is the kind of life-changing work we do every day. But we can’t do it alone.
Your support makes all the difference.
On Give to Lincoln Day, your donation helps immigrants like Maribel find hope, healing, and a path forward.
➡️ Give today at https://givetolincoln.com/nonprofits/center-for-legal-immigration-assistance.
Every gift, large or small, helps protect families, open legal pathways, and build a stronger, more welcoming Nebraska.
