top of page

Unveiling a Life's Odyssey:
From Guatemala's Coast to Oregon's Forests

Welcome to my world—a journey from the sun-kissed shores of Guatemala to the lush forests of Oregon. I'm Julia Grace Garfield, and my life has unfolded as a vibrant tapestry woven with the threads of my Guatemalan roots and the rich Oregonian community I proudly call home.

Born in Guatemala, my life's path twisted through the shadows of human trafficking and an illicit adoption. This personal odyssey fuels my commitment to shedding light on the darker sides of adoption in Guatemala—untold stories dating back from the 1970s to the early 2010s.

My investigative blog peels back the layers, sharing case transcripts, local news stories, interviews with human rights lawyers, and poignant conversations with indigenous women who endured unimaginable pain. I delve into UN investigative reports, aiming to make these crucial articles more accessible and spark conversations on adoption, trauma, human trafficking, and the complex dynamics of child placement.

In 2017, I took a significant leap, founding 'A Helping Hand Global,' a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Beyond providing free menstrual care kits, it became a conduit for essential healthcare, sustainability, and meaningful community connections. The Vancouver Business Journal recognized our impact in their Non-profit spotlight, reinforcing the transformative power of aligning values with tangible actions.

 

Read it here.

I learned, grew, and changed my ideas and this led to a metamorphosis of my 501(c)(3) into a Mutual Aid— an ethos rooted in community solidarity. Using my entrepreneurial canvas from LoveJoy Media and my newly founded goals, I created Julia Grace Garfield LLC.  I can explore everything personal and professional that I value and bring them together so that I can leave the earth better than I left it and bring people together. 

Local advocacy, from Randall Children's Hospital to collaborating with The Portland Monarchs, embodies my core values—environmental mindfulness, equity, and community resilience. Every encounter, initiative, and connection contributes to the vibrant tapestry of society, creating safer, nurturing neighborhoods. Myself & other volunteers were featured on the local news here in Portland, Oregon for our efforts for habitat restoration for the Monarch Butterflies.

 

Watch the TV clip here.

As you delve into my experiences, you'll uncover more than a series of achievements – it's a journey rooted in resilience, gratitude, and an unwavering commitment to positive change. My life's odyssey, shaped by the complexities of an illegal adoption, has fueled a deep-seated desire to make a difference. It's not just about personal triumphs but a dedication to turning adversity into opportunities for others.

 

Born from the shadows of a tumultuous past, my journey exemplifies the transformative power of community, advocacy, and the unwavering belief that lasting change begins within our very communities. Please join me in this ongoing quest, where the importance of making a difference isn't just a goal; it's a calling, a heartfelt commitment to leaving an indelible mark on the world. 

Welcome to a space where our collective efforts create a narrative of lasting impact and empowerment – because making a difference is not just what I do; it's who I am.

Julia Grace Garfield

Support independent investigative journalism! Your donations help cover research fees, paywalls, and database access costs. Every contribution makes a difference. Thank you!

©2023 by Julia Grace Garfield

Proudly created with Wix.com

Read the Privacy Policy Here

Official Logo
bottom of page