Luz Social Services Inc.

Overview

Luz Social Services Inc. is a private, non-profit community-based corporation founded in 1971. Its primary mission is to provide health and human services to the Hispanic community, as well as the general population in Tucson. The organization focuses on community mobilization and development, directing resources to combat issues such as substance abuse, juvenile crime, and related problems.

History and Initiatives

In its early years, Luz Social Services Inc. was a pioneer in addressing substance abuse and gang activity. In 1989, it received a significant federal grant for the Padrinos del Sol initiative, which aimed at prevention and early intervention services for Hispanic and Yaqui communities in Tucson. This effort laid the foundation for continued community prevention services for high-risk youth and families.

In the subsequent years, Luz received further grants from the Center for Substance Abuse Prevention and the U.S. Department of Justice. These grants enabled the organization to develop comprehensive prevention plans and establish coalitions such as Adelante Juntos Community Empowerment Partnership and Los Tres Pasos Coalition. The success of these initiatives highlighted Luz's ability to build strong community partnerships across diverse settings.

Services and Support

Today, Luz Social Services Inc. offers a range of substance abuse prevention services. These include:

• Coalition Building: Fostering partnerships among community groups.
• Capacity Training: Developing community capacity to address substance abuse.
• Community Development: Encouraging community involvement and organization.
• Technical Assistance: Providing support and guidance to community organizations.
• Resource Development: Identifying and securing resources for community initiatives.
• Information Sharing and Public Awareness: Educating the public about substance abuse issues.
• Advocacy: Promoting policies and practices that support community well-being.
• Gang Awareness and Education: Informing communities about gang-related risks and prevention strategies.

Luz also collaborates with various state and federal agencies, educational institutions, and community organizations to ensure comprehensive support for families, youth, and social service systems.

Funding and Partnerships

The organization receives funding and support from several government departments and community partnerships, including the U.S. Department of Education, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and local health departments. Luz acts as the fiscal agent for alliances against drugs in the region, further emphasizing its commitment to community health and safety.

Mission

Luz Social Services Inc.'s mission is to provide opportunities for educational, social, and personal development, while fostering a safe and healthy environment for families and residents in Tucson. Through community mobilization and prevention skills development, the organization strives to create lasting solutions to social issues.