Uniting Borders: Empowering Communities for a Brighter Future

Uniting Borders (UB), a non-profit organization founded in 2020, is dedicated to improving the lives of underprivileged children and families worldwide. The organization focuses on providing access to education, meeting basic needs, and offering ongoing support. UB’s mission is to combat poverty and empower individuals to build fulfilling futures, fostering cooperation and sustainable solutions within local communities.

UB works tirelessly to ensure every child has the opportunity to grow, learn, and reach their full potential. The organization operates under the guiding principles of empowerment, compassion, and collaboration, aiming to create long-lasting change for individuals, families, and communities.

Meet the Team Behind Uniting Borders

The team at Uniting Borders is comprised of three passionate individuals: Doug Santos, Sabrina Silveira, and Daniel Carroll. Each member brings a unique perspective shaped by their personal experiences and commitment to service.

Founder Doug Santos, originally from Brazil, immigrated to the United States at the age of seven. His upbringing instilled in him a strong sense of community and the importance of helping others. Santos’ journey led him to pursue a degree in Criminal Justice and Sociology from Salem State University, where he also excelled as a team captain on the football team. In 2020, he launched UB, initially starting as a shoe collection initiative for underprivileged children. Santos aims to address disparities faced by individuals in lower socioeconomic environments.

Sabrina Silveira is a licensed Clinical Social Worker, having earned her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Social Work from Salem State University. Raised in a family of immigrants, she has firsthand knowledge of the challenges faced by those in poverty. Silveira believes that every child deserves access to basic necessities and is dedicated to transforming lives through adequate support. She reconnected with Santos, and together they formed Uniting Borders, aiming to create opportunities for those in need.

The team also includes Daniel Carroll, who was born in Guatemala and adopted into a loving family in the U.S. at age four. His early experiences with poverty and instability foster a deep connection to those still facing similar challenges. Carroll’s personal journey, including reconnecting with his biological family in 2018, drives him to support children and families both domestically and abroad.

Expanding Impact and Community Engagement

Uniting Borders began its outreach in Brazil, leveraging the social and familial ties of Santos and Silveira. The organization has since expanded into Peru through a partnership with Peruvian UFC fighter Daniel “Soncora” Marcos. Together, they work to deliver resources to underserved communities in the region.

Financial and material donations are crucial to UB’s mission. Supporters can contribute through various channels, including contacting the organization via Instagram @unitingborders or emailing [email protected]. Currently, financial contributions are accepted through PayPal, with plans to add options like Venmo and CashApp in the future. UB ensures that all donations are directed to their intended recipients by collaborating with trusted partners and personally traveling to distribution points.

In addition to monetary support, Uniting Borders offers merchandise such as hoodies in various sizes and colors. Proceeds from these sales directly fund shipping donated goods and support ongoing fundraising efforts.

UB actively engages with its community through social media, encouraging followers to like, share, and raise awareness by using the hashtag #BeTheDifference. The organization plans to launch a monthly newsletter to keep supporters informed about their initiatives and impact.

The commitment of Uniting Borders to foster connection and compassion is evident in their work. As Silveira emphasizes, “Where there is need, we seek opportunity. Uniting Borders is not bound by borders — we go where hearts are open and hands are ready to help. Be the difference!”

With a vision to uplift lives and create sustainable change, Uniting Borders continues to inspire individuals and communities around the globe.