Our MISSION

Mission Statement: La Plazita Institute, Inc. (LPI) mission is using a comprehensive, holistic and cultural approach designed around the philosophy of “La Cultura Cura”, to engage with youth, elders and communities to draw from their own roots and histories that will express core traditional values of respect, honor, love, and family.

PROGRAMS

400
Community Members
Served Weekly
20+
Years Healing
200
Youth Impacted Monthly
12
Impactful Programs & Services

services

Acudetox
Healing Through Identity, Spirit & Balance

AcuDetox, an auricular accupunture practice  with deep roots in Aztec and other Indigenous cultures. This simple yet powerful acupuncture-based treatment supports emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being by helping to release stress, reduce cravings, and restore balance. Treatments are offered free of charge and take place every Monday and Friday at 4:00 PM at La Plazita Institute. Please arrive on time to receive the full benefits of the session. Late arrivals may miss essential parts of the treatment.

Tibetan Tai Chi
Movement for Inner Strength & Purpose

Join us for Tibetan Tai Chi, a weekly class focused on gentle movement, mindfulness, and inner balance. This unique practice blends traditional Tai Chi with Tibetan principles to support physical health, emotional well-being, and spiritual growth. Open to all experience levels. Come move, breathe, and center yourself in community. Tuesdays 6:00 P.M.

Food Distrbution
Feeding Community with Dignity & Care

La Plazita offers free weekly food distribution every Friday morning, supporting our community with fresh and nutritious food. Each veggie bag includes a mix of locally grown produce from our own farms and grocery items provided in partnership with Costco. Distribution is on a first come, first served basis—come early to ensure you receive a box! Together, we nourish our community with dignity, care, and respect.

Ceramaics
Creating Connection Through Art & Identity

Ceramic Therapy is a powerful form of art therapy open to all ages—children, youth, and adults. Rooted in culture, creativity, and healing, these workshops support emotional wellness, help manage post-release stress, and strengthen community connections. We offer free sessions where participants can express themselves through clay and ceramics in a welcoming and supportive space. Come create, heal, and grow with us through the art of ceramics. Please contact Russell Urban at (505) 457-7846 for more information 

Community Service
Purposeful Work. Real-World Impact

Fulfilling Court-Ordered & Probation Hours La Plazita Institute is an approved community service site for individuals needing to complete hours for Metro Court or probation requirements. We provide meaningful opportunities to give back while engaging in community-focused work rooted in respect, culture, and personal growth. For current days and times, please contact: Russell Urban at (505) 457-7846

OUR TEAM

Albino Garcia, Jr.
Founder and Executive Director
Sylvia Garcia
Associate Director
Sonia Ornelas
Associate Director
Norma Gamble
Deputy Director of Human Resources and Fund Development
Yárida Estrada
Executive Assistant and Communications
Rodrigo Rodriguez
Director, Justice for Youth Community Collaborative (J4Y)
Xiuhtecutli Soto
Coordinator, Justice for Youth Community Collaborative (J4Y)
Pablo Soto
Senior Navigator, Pathways
Lisa Candelaria
Office Manager
Erik Rivera
Director of Intervention, Diversion & Prevention
Siddiq Silguero
Kitchen Manager/Farmer
Russell Urban
Operations Manager
Juan Gonzalez
Farm Lead
Chris Herrera
Youth Advocate
Armando Rivera
Farmer
Jasmyne Muñoz
Food Justice Programs Coordinator

Our values

  • Self-Determination
    Familia
    Community
    Systemic Change
    Movement Building

LET’S TALk

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831 Isleta Blvd SW,
Albuquerque, NM 87105

Phone: (505) 508-1802
Email: info@laplazitainstitute.com

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