About Us

💙 Freedom to Belong

At Freedom to Belong, we believe that immigrants who choose the legal path deserve more than just permission to stay — they deserve the chance to belong.

That’s why we offer a complete, free program that helps legal immigrants in the U.S. become citizens — and guide Diversity Visa applicants worldwide through the process with honesty and compassion.


🌟 MISSION

To empower legal immigrants and Diversity Visa applicants through free education, mentorship, and financial support — so they can achieve U.S. citizenship and, with it, gain rights, protection, stability, and a true sense of belonging.


🔭 VISION

A world where every person who follows the legal path to immigration — especially women and the underserved — can access the support they need to learn, grow, and become proud, protected U.S. citizens.

Who We Help

✅ Low-income immigrants and refugees integrate into American society.
✅ Aspiring U.S. citizens navigate the naturalization process with structured support.
✅ Women facing systemic discrimination gain the resources they need for a fresh start.
✅ Non-native speakers learn English for work, education, and daily life.

What We Offer

✅ Free English and Civics classes

✅ Mentorship with experienced volunteers  

✅Citizenship test practice exams (Freedom to Belong Test)

✅Financial assistance for those who cannot afford USCIS fees

✅Emotional and practical support for women facing social barriers

✅ Life coaching for women, business guidance and cultural adaptation

Our Core Values

Empowerment

🔹We equip immigrants with the knowledge and tools to succeed.

Integrity

🔹We uphold transparency, honesty, and ethical standards.

Inclusivity

🔹We embrace and support people from all backgrounds.

Compassion

🔹We believe in kindness and advocacy for meaningful change.

Commitment

🔹We stand by every immigrant on their citizenship journey.

Community

🔹We foster strong relationships so no one walks this path alone.

Ana Piumbini Walters

President & Founder

Ana is a successful entrepreneur and immigration advocate, originally from Brazil. After legally immigrating to the U.S. in 2006, she built a thriving career in business, manufacturing, and international trade.

Having witnessed family members deported, visa denials without cause, and immigrants living in the U.S. for decades without completing their citizenship process, she saw the urgent need for change.

Freedom to Belong is more than a nonprofit—it’s a movement to empower immigrants with the knowledge, support, and resources to achieve the FREEDOM TO BELONG.

Steve Walters

Vice-President

Steve is a fourth-generation business owner in American manufacturing. Over the years, he has worked closely with immigrants in the workforce, witnessing their challenges and contributions to the economy.

Steve is committed to helping immigrants become American citizens by ensuring they have access to education and legal resources.

Marcella Constancio

Legal Director

Marcella is a senior attorney specializing in immigration law. She has dedicated her career to advocating for immigrant rights and ensuring just and legal pathways for those seeking a better future.

Her expertise in global immigration policies is essential in guiding Freedom to Belong’s legal programs and policy advocacy.

Emanuelle Oliveira

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Emanuelle (Manu) is an accountant, entrepreneur, and international missionary with a passion for financial empowerment and humanitarian work. For years, she has carried out missionary missions in Haiti and other developing countries, providing assistance, education, and business development programs, adopting schools, and helping those in need.

As our Treasurer, she ensures financial stability, budget planning, and compliance, allowing our organization to operate efficiently and responsibly.

Filipe dos Santos Piumbini

Director of Communication

Filipe is a business executive with experience in international sales and nonprofit work. Currently based in Italy, he actively supports nonprofit organizations focused on immigrant assistance and social programs. His role at Freedom to Belong includes outreach, marketing, and strategic communications, ensuring that our message reaches those who need it most.

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