San Miguel Women: Teri Kavanagh — Bridging Cultures and Strengthening Community.
- San Miguel Life
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 8 hours ago
Meet Teri
In a city known for bringing people together, Teri Kavanagh has spent more than two decades helping connect cultures and strengthen community in San Miguel.
With dual citizenship in Mexico and the United States, Teri is widely known as one of San Miguel’s most dedicated community advocates. Through her work with organizations such as CRISMA, Casita Linda, and the Girls Empowerment Program, she dedicates her time to supporting initiatives that uplift families, empower young people, and strengthen the social fabric of San Miguel.
Her philosophy is simple: show up, lend a hand, and create opportunities for others. In a place defined by generosity of spirit, Teri reflects the belief that community is built not just by belonging—but by participating.
What first brought you to San Miguel—and what made you stay?
I first came to San Miguel many years ago and immediately fell in love with its beauty, culture, and sense of community. What made me stay was something deeper: the people. There is a spirit here that is incredibly welcoming, creative, and generous. Over time San Miguel became more than a place I visited—it truly became home.
What are you building, nurturing, or contributing to here?
A big part of my life here is community involvement and philanthropy. I serve on the board of CRISMA and Casita Linda, organizations dedicated to improving lives in our community. I also support initiatives such as the Girls Empowerment Program (Niñas Sabías), which focuses on empowering young girls through education and mentorship. I’m also proud to support our volunteer Bomberos and the Red Cross, whose work is essential to the safety and wellbeing of our community. Supporting programs that create opportunity and strengthen San Miguel is something I care deeply about.
How do you connect with or support the community?
I believe in showing up and doing what you can. Whether it’s helping organize fundraisers, supporting local charities, assisting families in need, or collaborating with organizations that serve our community, I try to contribute my time and energy wherever it can make a difference.
What does a typical day in San Miguel look like for you?
Every day is a little different. It might start with coffee and a walk with our dogs, followed by meetings, community projects, or time spent connecting with friends and neighbors. One of the beautiful things about San Miguel is how naturally friendships, culture, and community come together in everyday life.
What has San Miguel given you—and what do you hope to give back?
San Miguel has given me friendships, inspiration, and a deep sense of purpose. It has shown me how powerful community can be. I hope to give back by supporting organizations that help others, creating opportunities for those who need them, and contributing in whatever way I can to keep this community strong and compassionate.
Fast Five
One word that describes San Miguel: Magic
Favorite place to gather with friends: One of the many beautiful countryside restaurants in the campo around San Miguel
Season you love most in town: May — when it’s warm, low season, and you get to see more of the locals
A local business, cause, or space you love supporting: CRISMA, Casita Linda, the Girls Empowerment Program, and our Bomberos (firefighters)
A view you never take for granted: The Parroquia rising above the city at sunset
Where She Gives Back
If you’d like to learn more or get involved in the organizations Teri supports, explore the following:
CRISMA (Centro de Rehabilitación Integral San Miguel de Allende)
Casita Linda
Girls Empowerment Program (Niñas Sabias)
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