It’s a new year, and HCLV is more committed than ever to serving the Lehigh Valley. Please consider donating to HCLV for 2023! If you’d like to set up a donation and join the HCLV family of volunteers, funders, and spokespeople, check out our flyer HERE. See the following message from our leadership:
Dear Friends of the Hispanic Center,
For over 50 years, the Hispanic Center Lehigh Valley has provided essential support to our neighbors in their moments of need. From fresh, culturally appropriate food at our pantry, to comprehensive case management, the Basilio Huertas Senior Center, and other co-located service, the Hispanic Center is a hub to our community. Originally known as the Council of Spanish Speaking Organizations of the Lehigh Valley, Inc., the Hispanic Center remains true to its foundation, and while serving all in need, continues to stay focused on lifting and empowering the Hispanic community.
The Hispanic community is the fastest growing group in the Lehigh Valley. In 1990, only 5% of the Lehigh Valley community was Hispanic – in 2020, that number was 21%, over four times greater than just thirty years prior. Here in the city of Bethlehem, around half of the residents represent the Hispanic community. Despite a strong presence in the Lehigh Valley, the Hispanic community continues to face obstacles that impact opportunities for success. Compared to non-Hispanics, there are higher rates of unemployment and poverty due to factors such as literacy, language, and education.
The Hispanic Center serves as a place of hope in our community, where all are welcomed and celebrated – none of which would be possible without the support of our incredible partners. We rely on “amigos” like you who share our commitment to help our neighbors in their moments of need. Our amigos are like our extended family who we can count on as volunteers, funders, and spokespeople. But more importantly, you provide hope to those struggling to make ends meet, working towards their GED, or who just need a cheerleader – real life examples that dedication and hard work pay off for a successful and bright future.
The attached form provides several opportunities outlining how you can partner with us to service our local community. If you’ve been one of our amigos for years, we are so grateful for your support and hope you will consider renewing your commitment. If you are new to supporting the Hispanic Center, we appreciate you joining us and welcome you to our family.
We are so grateful for your support and the impact you make on our communities every day. Please feel free to reach out to us if we can provide additional information on volunteer or in-kind donation opportunities. We also extend a warm invitation to come by and tour our center and learn more about what we do.
Muchas gracias por su apoyo!
Sincerely,
Olga Negron (President, Board of Directors)
Victoria Montero, MPH (Executive Director)