Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the cultural resilience and contributions of Latino communities.
In Kansas City, several organizations play pivotal roles in uplifting and supporting these communities. Here’s a look at five such organizations making a significant impact:
1. El Centro Inc.
Founded in 1976, El Centro Inc. is committed to enhancing communities and the lives of Latinos and others through educational, social, and economic opportunities. With locations in Kansas City, Kansas, and Olathe, Kansas, El Centro offers a range of services, including dual-language preschool education, financial literacy programs and tax assistance, community health navigation and mental health resources, and vocational training and workforce development. Their approach ensures that families have the tools and support they need to thrive.
2. Guadalupe Centers
Established in 1919, Guadalupe Centers is one of the nation’s longest-operating Latino-serving nonprofits. Operating out of 12 facilities across Kansas City, they provide early childhood education and charter schools, workforce development and adult education, youth recreation and after-school programs, as well as emergency assistance and family support services.
3. Children’s Mercy – Adelante Kansas City & CHiCoS
Children’s Mercy Hospital is at the forefront of providing culturally competent healthcare to the Latino community through two key programs: Adalante Kansas City and CHiCoS (Clínica Hispana de Cuidados de Salud):
- Adalante Kansas City: A training initiative aimed at reducing cultural and language barriers in mental and behavioral health care for Spanish-speaking individuals.
- CHiCoS (Clínica Hispana de Cuidados de Salud): A culture and language coaching program for bilingual pediatric residents, ensuring that Spanish-speaking families receive quality care.
Additionally, their HOPE Clinic provides bilingual clinical services and support for families navigating pediatric cancer treatments.
4. Advocates for Immigrant Rights and Reconciliation (AIRR)
AIRR is committed to empowering and uplifting the voices of the immigrant community in Kansas and Missouri. Through education, leadership development, and community-driven action, they advocate for immigrant rights and well-being. Their mission is to foster a welcoming environment that values justice, dignity, and reconciliation.
5. Mattie Rhodes Center
The Mattie Rhodes Center is a community development organization dedicated to individual and family well-being through social services, behavioral health, and the arts. They offer bilingual and bicultural behavioral health services, art programs that educate the community about Latino culture and traditions, and The Nuevo Amanecer (New Dawn) program, which focuses on preventing and reducing drug-related crime and substance use within the Latino community. Their cultural arts initiatives provide a platform for Latino artists to showcase their work and for the community to engage with and celebrate Latino heritage.
These organizations exemplify the spirit of community and cultural pride that define Hispanic Heritage Month. By supporting and engaging with these organizations, we contribute to the ongoing empowerment and celebration of Kansas City’s vibrant Latino communities.