El Concilio/Hispanic American Council Incorporated

El Concilio, formerly known as the Hispanic American Council, is a non-profit community organization dedicated to supporting the Latinx community in the greater Kalamazoo area. The organization was established in 1981 and has been a cornerstone for Latinx residents, providing essential services and advocacy.

Mission and Vision

El Concilio's mission is to enable and promote the prosperity of the Latinx community. Its vision encompasses a thriving Latinx community that preserves distinct cultural identities within the broader society. The organization values respect for human dignity, service and leadership, authentic collaborations, education and entrepreneurship, respect for diverse cultural traditions, and embracing equity, diversity, and inclusion.

History

El Concilio originated from a group of Hispanics affiliated with St. Joseph's Catholic Church, who began meeting in the early 1970s to discuss issues affecting their community. This group evolved into the Spanish-Speaking Steering Committee and eventually became the Hispanic American Council, officially incorporated as a 501(c)3 organization in January 1981. In November 2017, the organization was renamed El Concilio.

Services and Programs

El Concilio serves as a liaison between Latinx individuals and service agencies, addressing language barriers, cultural differences, and unfamiliarity with local institutions. The organization provides culturally sensitive services aimed at helping individuals attain self-sufficiency and a higher level of social and economic well-being. Services include assistance with immigration legal issues, such as naturalization and citizenship, as well as referrals to other social services.

Cultural Heritage

A significant part of El Concilio's mission is to nourish and encourage the diverse cultural heritage of the Hispanic population. This is achieved through community events and by fostering an environment where Latinx cultural identities are respected and appreciated.

Community Engagement

El Concilio hosts various community and fundraising events throughout the year, promoting volunteerism and sponsorship opportunities. The organization welcomes individuals from diverse backgrounds to contribute to its community efforts.

Governance and Leadership

El Concilio's leadership team is comprised of dedicated professionals who are passionate about fostering growth and prosperity in the Latinx community. The organization operates under the guidance of a Board of Directors, which includes members from local businesses and educational institutions.

Significance

For over 40 years, El Concilio has played a vital role in advocating for and serving the needs of the Latinx community in Kalamazoo. Its commitment to cultural preservation and social welfare has made a lasting impact on the community's social and economic landscape.

[1] https://elconciliokzoo.org/about/ [2] https://elconciliokzoo.org [3] https://www.immigrationadvocates.org/nonprofit/legaldirectory/organization.553861-El_Concilio_KzooHispanic_American_Council_Inc [4] https://theconcilio.org [5] https://www.elconcilio.net