Alma Latina helps promote Hispanic culture
By Yvonne Lopez
IV Leader Staff, Nov. 13, 2003
Have you heard about the Latin Soul at IVCC?
Alma Latina, Latin Soul, was formed at IVCC three years ago to help promote the Hispanic culture at IVCC and in the surrounding areas.
According to one-year member Jose Avalos, “Alma Latina is not just a Hispanic organization. It is open to everyone. It’s a student organization dedicated to learning about the Hispanic culture and helping out the community.”
On average, Alma Latina sponsors 4-5 fund raisers a year to increase the organization’s budget. Fund raisers include taco sales, raffles and bake sales. Alma Latina also puts on events, such as the Cinco de Mayo festival. In October, the group will raffle off a five-CD stereo system.
Alma Latina works closely with Illinois Valley Hispanic Partnership Council at “Centro Mi Pueblo” in La Salle, where they assist in community service. Centro Mi Pueblo is an afterschool organization for children who need assistance in schoolwork because their parents might not be bilingual. Alma Latina helps tutor these children so they can become successful in their education. Two-year member Vanessa Marquez states, “Alma Latina helps represent Hispanics in a positive way by setting good examples for younger children. We want children to realize if they work hard they can do something good with their lives and hopefully someday give back to their community.”
Alma Latina offers translation services for many corporations and industries in the Illinois Valley and provides a support system for fellow members, which helps to motivate and increase self-esteem.
Alma Latina president and two-year member Liliana Hernandez said, “Being a part of Alma Latina has been a gratifying experience because I have had the chance not only to interact with other Latinos on campus from the surrounding area, but also to serve in the Hispanic community helping people of all ages, specifically the literacy program.
Questions about Alma Latina may be directed to advisors Pat Cole at 224-0413 or Lou Caldwell at 224-0323. Hernandez may be reached by e-mail at
lluvia1415@hotmail.com.
Avalos said, “We encourage other students to join Alma Latina because it’s a good way to meet new people and learn about each other’s backgrounds.”