Leaving behind your home country—and everything you know—can be terrifying. Sometimes, the risks are worth it. For Kliebert and his family, staying in Venezuela was not an option. As a former police officer, Kliebert struggled to comply with the rampant extortion and a justice system that often turned a blind eye, allowing criminals to hold power over the public. His refusal to conform led to constant threats. Fearing for their safety—especially their daughter’s—they made the difficult decision to leave Venezuela.
Their journey was grueling. For four days, they walked through the jungle, witnessing horrors along the way: lifeless bodies on the path and hearing stories of women who had suffered at the hands of men lurking in the jungle. To protect his wife, Kleibert urged her to disguise herself in men’s clothing. The jungle was not their only obstacle. As they pressed forward, a steady river helped them advance, but along the way, they were robbed by a man who had been waiting for unsuspecting travelers. Their daughter, riding on Kleibert’s shoulders, witnessed the encounter and asked why he had given the man money. “He’s a friend,” Kleibert reassured her. “And I’m letting him borrow some money.” It was the best Kleibert could do to ease her mind.
Their journey was far from over. Upon reaching Panama, they found a brief respite before continuing north. They passed through Costa Rica, Nicaragua, Honduras, and Guatemala, where their luck took another cruel turn. This time, it was a police officer who robbed them, demanding money and even snatching it from their bags.
Their luck in Mexico began to shift in their favor, promising them that their journey had not been in vain. In Mexico, after making it to their appointment and turning themselves in to be processed legally as asylum seekers, they eventually found their way to Kansas City, where Kleibert’s brother had settled. Through all the uncertainties and scares they witnessed along the way, they had finally made it. With the promise of a new future ahead of them, Kleibert and his family’s hope for a better life seemed much more attainable.
Through Kleibert’s brother, they learned about the Guadalupe Centers’ Early Childhood Center (ECC) and the promising education available for their daughter if they took the chance. It was a no-brainer for Kleibert and his wife to enroll their daughter there.
Wanting to be actively involved in his daughter’s education, Kleibert became a strong advocate for her academics and encouraged other parents to do the same. His dedication did not go unnoticed. Parents at the ECC nominated him to represent them on the MARC Policy Council, where he now serves as one of two members—and one of the few Latino representatives. Kleibert takes great pride in this role, ensuring that Latino voices are heard and valued.
“My experience has been excellent. As a parent, it’s a beautiful feeling,” he shared. “I wanted to represent Latinos; show them the value of what we have [at the Early Childhood Center].”
The ECC community has become like a second home for the family. Parents come together to fundraise for fun activities, and Kleibert has seen firsthand the impact of bilingual education. “I am in awe of this school,” he said. “There’s nothing that needs to be changed. Our daughter comes home excited to tell us about her day and has never missed a day of school.” A stark contrast to when she first started—dreading school at the beginning because of her experience in Venezuela.
Kleibert’s determination also proved that some barriers are worth crossing. Fearing that he had enrolled his daughter too late, Kleibert felt it was best to go to the ECC in person. There, he met Aldo, a Family Advocate at the ECC, who welcomed him and helped get his daughter enrolled. She started school two days later.
Since joining the MARC Policy Council in November 2024, Kleibert has remained an integral part of the group, carrying the hopes and concerns of ECC parents with him. His message to others hesitant about wanting to get involved with the council is simple: “Sometimes, we fear the unknown, but there are good people in this world. Don’t limit yourself. You never know what the future holds. Take risks.”
Kleibert’s journey is a powerful reminder of how education and community support can transform lives. You too can get involved as Kleibert and support families like his. At ECC, we rely on engaged parents, dedicated volunteers, and advocates to ensure every child receives the best start possible. Learn how you can get involved today.
