Freya Everly

The Mexican American Leadership Organization (M.A.L.O.) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1973 by the Sons of the Southeast Side of Chicago and their families. For over five decades, their mission has been rooted in the sacred grounds they call community — to give back to friends, families, and those in need. Their work is grounded in generosity, connection, and a deep belief that when one family is hurting, the community shows up.

How M.A.L.O. Showed Up for Freya

M.A.L.O. came into our lives through one of Freya’s incredible teachers, Ms. Rios. Her family is closely involved with the organization, and when she shared Freya’s battle with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, they were moved to help.

Their support came in the form of financial assistance — but what that truly gave us was time.

Because of M.A.L.O.’s generosity, I was able to sit bedside with Freya for hundreds of hours during her treatment. I didn’t have to divide my attention or carry the added weight of financial strain while navigating the hardest season of our lives. I could simply be her mom. I could hold her hand. I could be present at every appointment without distraction.

Some of those days were unimaginably hard. But sitting where we sit now, I wouldn’t trade a single one of those bedside hours for anything. M.A.L.O.’s gift is even more meaningful in hindsight — they gave us time with our little girl. And time is everything.

A Community That Stayed

M.A.L.O. didn’t just write a check and move on. They checked in throughout Freya’s treatment. They walked alongside us.

When they learned of her passing, they came to her memorial. They fed us. They hugged us. They stood with us in our grief. And they continue to hold her memory alongside us.

Their mission to give back and take care of their community — a community we are so honored to be a part of — moves us deeply. Their example inspires us to give back every chance we can.

If you would like to donate to this incredible organization and help them continue supporting families like ours, you can do so here:
https://www.maloclub.com/donate