Last Thursday, February 23, Centro para Familias Hispanas held its very first “Reunion de Amigos” at their facility located at 2013 N. Raleigh Blvd in Raleigh. About 80 people were in attendance for this successful evening. Representatives from the Latino Credit Union, Self Help, Wake Tech and other community leaders and stakeholders supported the event.
Ms. Maty Ferrer, Director of Centro para Familias Hispanas, shared that, “It was inspiring to see so many new faces and friends of the center.” She continued, “There were many people that were at the center for the first time.” Many of these first time attendees did not know much about the center, despite having heard about it in the community. Catholic Charities staff recognized this was a challenge Centro para Familias Hispanas faced, which led to the creation of the event.
The Open House allowed the community to see the center for themselves and learn about the various programs that are offered including: Support of the Family Services, Adult Education Classes, SmartStart Funded Childhood Development Programs & Services, Legal Immigration Services, After-School Reading Tutoring, Women’s Leadership Program and Employment Program.
In October 2016, a Resource Development Committee for Centro para Familias Hispanas was formed to help grow the center. Reunion de Amigos was the first action item on the committee’s agenda and planning for this event immediately began to take place. Ms. Ferrer reflected on the impact of this resource committee, “It has been great to see how our committee members have taken ownership of our center and worked hard to make this event a tremendous success. We are hopeful that this event will help us increase donations for the center and create more awareness and interest in supporting our mission.”
Centro para Familias Hispanas has served the Hispanic community since 1997. Last year the center served about 14,700 individuals through various programs and services. Volunteers are critical to serving these families. The Centro para Familias Hispanas office only has three full-time employees, one part-time employee, and four interns. Ms. Ferrer explained, “Volunteers are our hands and legs that help us reach out longer and higher. Their outstanding commitment to our center is priceless.” Approximately twenty individuals volunteer at Centro para Familias Hispanas and assist in the many different programs and services throughout the year.
This summer, Centro para Familias Hispanas is celebrating its 20th anniversary. In the coming weeks more information will be shared about celebrations that are being planned to mark this anniversary. Check out photos from the event and testimonials from clients below.
