The Alliance of Border Collaboratives (ABC), established in 2010, is a community-based organization and autonomous fiscal agent dedicated to advocating for vulnerable and marginalized populations. These populations include the homeless, people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, sex workers, low-income individuals, the elderly, and those grappling with substance use and mental health disorders. Our primary objective is to ensure these populations have full access to prevention, intervention, and treatment services.

ABC has been at the forefront of implementing innovative health programs for vulnerable communities. Our regional free community-based naloxone dispensary has saved countless lives from opioid and fentanyl-related overdoses. Additionally, we spearhead a regional Harm Reduction project, providing crucial support to those most vulnerable to HIV and substance use disorders.

Our essential social services have helped hundreds of families and individuals across our community who are facing homelessness and experiencing temporary financial crises. Funded by the Texas Department of Community Affairs, ABC manages the HOME Program, rehabilitating or reconstructing over 85 homes for low-income families. The Amy Young Barrier Removal Program for persons with disabilities has successfully modified more than 350 homes for qualified low-income households, including veterans.

ABC is engaged in applied research, developing evidence-based programs that incorporate proven practices and promote active participation in research projects. For example, Project Encuentro, which concluded in 2021, conducted formative research to understand HIV risk among people who use drugs (PWUD) in the border region. This research informed the development of our current harm reduction services. ABC is at the forefront of mental health outreach, education, referral, free psychotherapy, and family therapy programs for low-income, underserved individuals, including those with substance use disorders. ABC excels in building and maintaining sustainable relationships with various entities and individuals engaged in healthcare, mental health, substance abuse, LGBTQ+ issues, housing, homelessness, rural community health, immigration, border concerns, elderly care, and veterans’ affairs.

Jose Alvarez, LMSW
Executive Director