The Amigo Community Center of the America (ACC) was born not out of a business plan or funding pitch, but from a circle of friends who believed in showing up for each other and for their city.
Founded by longtime community servant Angela Trillo, Amigo is a bilingual nonprofit organization that empowers Memphis’s Latinx and immigrant communities with real tools for real life. From legal resources and housing guidance to job access and wellness support, Amigo is helping hundreds of families thrive in a city where they’re learning to belong.
“Amigo was built through friendship. The first thing I did was assemble a board made entirely of friends who have served with me over the years. The very first person I called was Janu, who encouraged me to pursue this dream and then I reached out to others who had shared this journey of service.”
Since opening its doors in 2023, the community center has embraced one purpose: to be a bridge. A bridge between cultures. Between systems and access. Between uncertainty and opportunity.
“We’re a community of inclusive collaboration. Everything we offer is bilingual and open to everyone. We teach you how to fish.”
That means no gatekeeping and no guesswork. Whether someone needs to learn how to rent their first home, land their first job, or start a business, Amigo meets them with the tools to move forward. And they’re doing it at scale. Last year alone, Amigo served 600 people. This year, they’ve already passed 1,000.
Five Pillars. One Purpose.
The foundation of Amigo’s work is built on five key pillars:
- Legal Support
- Housing Assistance
- Job Access
- Entrepreneurship Training
- Health & Wellness
From monthly workshops that break down job readiness, business planning, and tenant rights, to the city’s largest upcoming bilingual wellness event this September, Amigo is hands-on, consistent, and deeply intentional.
“There are so many pieces nobody teaches you when you move here. We created Amigo to fill those gaps.”
Why Memphis? Because There’s Room for Everyone
Amigo didn’t randomly land in the 901. Angela, who moved from Venezuela at age 21, saw Memphis as a city overflowing with potential.
“Memphis has more opportunities than gaps. There’s room for everyone. We just have to help people find their place.”
It’s a belief that has shaped every part of Amigo’s growth, including one of its most defining features: 90% of its impact has come through collaboration.
By opening their space to other organizations for events, mentorship, and office hours, Amigo is actively building the kind of cross-community momentum Memphis needs.
“We’re not here to do it all. We’re here to connect the dots. We want to be the light for many who don’t have it yet.”
Want to Help? Here’s How.
Amigo’s doors are open, but they need your help to keep growing. And no, it doesn’t have to be big.
“Be part of what we’re doing. Whether it’s a pen, a case of water, a venue, or your time, every little bit helps. Bring your ideas. Bring your wisdom.”
And if you’re not sure where to start? Just follow along on Instagram @amigocommunitycenter where they post updates, events, and needs.
“I want people to be contagious about serving. When you lead with your purpose, your heart and mind open up.”
The Future of Amigo Is Bright
Looking ahead, Amigo is already eyeing more collaborations, expanded programming, and citywide impact. But no matter how big it gets, its heart remains the same: uniting people through shared service and community.
“Community is everything, not just everyone. We can build something greater if we do it together. That’s the only way.”
📍 To learn more about Amigo Community Center of the Midsouth or to get involved, visit amigocommunitycenter.com
📸 Follow them on Instagram: @amigocommunitycenter
