For over four decades, El Centro de las Américas has been a cornerstone of the Latino community in Lincoln. As a nonprofit organization, El Centro has consistently provided essential educational and social services, empowering Latino families to thrive and reach their full potential. El Centro de las Américas is more than just an organization; it is a symbol of hope and resilience for the Latino community in Lincoln. By providing essential services and support, El Centro is helping to create a more equitable and inclusive society for all.
Through a diverse array of programs, El Centro has become a trusted resource for Latino families seeking support and guidance. Here are just a few examples of the ways in which El Centro is making a positive impact on education, social services, community outreach and cultural events.
Community Building
The annual Latino Festival is set to make a return on Saturday, September 14th, from 2:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Antelope Park's Shildneck Bandshell. This free community event continues to grow in popularity, reflecting the expanding Latino community in Lincoln. Attendees can expect a vibrant atmosphere filled with live music, delicious food, captivating dance performances, and engaging cultural exhibits. The festival also boasts a bustling marketplace featuring over 60 vendors showcasing traditional Latino cuisine, crafts, and other unique products.
This year's event promises something for everyone, with family-friendly activities such as a mechanical bull, piñatas, and face painting. The Latino Festival offers a wonderful opportunity for businesses and individuals to connect with the Latino community while fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for Lincoln's diverse culture.
Health
El Centro's dedication to promoting health awareness and providing essential resources has made a positive impact, empowering individuals to make informed decisions and take control of their well-being.
Colon Cancer Awareness El Centro de las Americas, committed to improving the health of the community, has been actively engaged in educational initiatives as part of its Minority Health Initiative. One such initiative, the Colon Cancer Screening Awareness session, focused on educating attendees about the importance of early detection and prevention, bringing awareness to risk factors, screening methods, and available resources for colon cancer detection. In collaboration with the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department, the FIT home screening kit was distributed to attendees to encourage annual testing.
Breast Cancer Awareness Partnering with healthcare professionals who delivered culturally appropriate presentations, El Centro's Empowering Latino Communities campaign encouraged individuals to take proactive steps toward their breast health by providing information on prevention, self-examination techniques, and mammogram referral resources.
Mental Health Support - Vida Sana Project - A Beacon of Hope Vida Sana is a mental health focused collaboration between UNL's Iniciativa HABLA and El Centro to provide and expand the reach of mental health services. Vida Sana offers free onsite mental health services to children. adults, and couples in a linguistically and culturally appropriate manner, helping to address a critical need in the Latinx community. In 2023, Vida Sana successfully served approximately 270 clients. Individuals interested in accessing Vida Sana services can visit the El Centro offices to register. The program is open to all members of the Latino community, regardless of their immigration status or income level.
Breastfeeding Support El Centro’s Lactancia Latina program collaborates with the Asian Community and Cultural Center, the Malone Center and Milk Works to promote, educate and support breastfeeding mothers and those in the postpartum process. Monthly breastfeeding meetings and pregnancy workshops offer information on resources and the benefits of care during and after pregnancy. Sessions with lactation specialists provide help and guidance for first-time mothers. The breastfeeding support group provides information, pumps, emotional support and more to moms, regardless of age, immigration status, or gender. Friends or family are welcome to attend in support of the breastfeeding mom. Contact Carmen Pulido, (402) 474-3950 ext 108 or email her at carmen@elcentrone.org for more information.
