In 2003, Centro Hispano de Frederick was formed through a heart driven response to help meet the special needs of a growing immigrant population in Frederick. We have continuously grown from a simple grassroots beginning and our mission has not changed—we are still here and we are still helping our immigrant population gain the necessary knowledge and skills that help them to truly become an integral part of our Frederick community and reach their full potential. And while our mission has not changed; the need for our services has dramatically increased and the resources that we require to meet those needs has continued to grow. There are many factors and issues that have impacted and radically influenced our world today, such as: new government policies, cost of living, and a sense of growing uncertainty. The impact upon our immigrant community is not something that we can easily measure—because we are considering real people, who are facing real life challenges.
During 2024, Centro Hispano de Frederick had 15,000 interactions with clients, provided 2,000 hours of educational programs, 80 hours of wellness educational sessions and 803 emotional support sessions, and provided 3,060 individuals with fresh produce. Our talented team members made 2,000 referrals for service, and with the assistance of two immigration lawyers we provided 423 legal consultations. Dedicated volunteers provided 1,650 hours of their time, treasures, and talents and we collaborated closely with more than 40 organizations to provide exceptional
services to our community.
We (Centro Hispano de Frederick and our community of Frederick) are at a critical crossroad; and we now find ourselves facing new and extreme challenges. And these challenges far exceed our current available resources. But we can, we must, and we will overcome these challenges—just as we have overcome our past challenges—which means that: we come together and we remain ever vigilant and committed to helping everyone find their place in our community, where they can thrive and contribute to a stronger and brighter future for us all!
Will you help us make a difference in the lives of children, families, adults, and senior citizens? Your support will enable us to continue to help meet these real needs of our fellow Federick residents. Centro Hispano de Frederick strives to empower others, not just through our words but through our actions with the services that we provide to our immigrant community members. We are asking you to join and to share with us the vital in the vital task and awesome responsibility of helping us to make Frederick an even stronger and more vibrant community for the next generation.
Thank you for helping us help so many!
About the Author:
Suzanne M. Salichs, Ph.D.
Suzanne has many years of experience in nonprofit administration, public service, grant acquisition and management, and organizational development, including establishing a community center to serve rural populations in Oklahoma. She has a Ph.D. in leadership and higher education as well as a master´s degree in public administration.
Executive Director, Centro Hispano de Frederick
https://www.centrohispanodefrederick.org/
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