Kidney Foundation of Laredo

For those with kidney disease, dialysis is a life saving service. It helps many to be able to see the next day and spend more time with their families. Kidney Foundation of Laredo has been instrumental in providing services and information to those with kidney disease. They connect clients with the resources they need, such as help with transportation vouchers, vitamins and medical supplements for renal patients, and help with medical visits for transplants. Because many patients need to have two to three times a week, family members cannot always take them. Therefore, Kidney Foundation helps those who need this transportation assistance. Many testify to the great work Kidney Foundation does for our community. “God is great!” says Armando Suarez, who has been living with diabetes and kidney disease. He says it’s not an easy task but is manageable with positive thinking and will power. Through the help of Kidney Foundation of Laredo, he was able to get professional help from V.A. doctors and good advice from experts at Satellite Health Clinic. “At first, it was hard for me.” Mentally, Armando had to accustom to a new experience on dialysis. He thought it was the end. However, as time went on it got easier for him. Nowadays, Armando is able go in and out from dialysis with no problems. Currently, he is active on the transplant list with a V.A. hospital, Michael DeBaky V.A. Medical Center in Houston, TX. This is, hopefully, where Armando will soon receive his transplant. He has been able to meet the surgeon and the whole team already. To prepare for the upcoming transplant, Armando has been following a strict diet and staying away from certain foods, in addition to getting plenty of exercise. He asserts that, “life is good.” Armando is just one example of the lives you touch when you give to United Way of Laredo. With your support, United Way is able to provide financial resources to agencies like Kidney Foundation to ensure they are able to provide programs and services to those in need. For more information on how you can support the United Way of Laredo or any of their network of agencies contact the United Way at uwlaredo@unitedwaylaredo.org or visit their website at www.unitedwaylaredo.org If you are in need of community resources and are not sure where to turn dial 2-1-1 for information on programs and services in available in our community. [wr_column span=”span4″ ][wr_image el_title=”donate” image_file=”https://unitedwaylaredo.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/PayPal-Donate-Button-High-Quality-PNG.png” image_size=”full” link_type=”url” image_type_url=”https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=LFUEMWNDDLUZG” open_in=”current_browser” image_container_style=”no-styling” image_alignment=”inherit” image_margin_bottom=”30″ appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ][/wr_image][/wr_column][wr_column span=”span4″ ]

Laredo Crime Stoppers

Laredo Crime Stoppers continues to thrive near the verge of celebrating 40 years in the community. In the year of 2020, when the world was chaos during a time everything was uncertain communities across the nation including ours experienced the pandemic, in every aspect. The organization learned really quick that in spite of the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact it had towards the organization and the undoubtedly lack of fundraising they knew the organization can do much more for the community during the time it mattered the most. Chantell Liles, President stated, “Laredo Crime Stoppers quickly adapted flawlessly into a virtual setting, to ensure TIPSTERS continued to get rewarded for information that help either solve or prevent a crime and got TIPSTERS paid. The Board of Directors continued to meet regularly to carry out the mission of as an unwavering priority.” In addition, the organization helped the city and other agencies promote the health and safety CDC guidelines and encouraged people to call the TIPS hotline to report COVID-19 violations. LCS, scripted, produced and aired PSA’s that helped remind the community to social distance and wash their hands properly among other updates and release on a day to day. Laredo Crime Stoppers recognized the importance of understanding that the fight for a safer Laredo/ Webb County was not like any other year but that this year we had first responders and frontline workers helping to do just that. LCS continued to receive calls to the 24/7 Hotline which only meant criminal activity was still happening and someone had to investigate with COVID as a concern, LPD had to also adapt quickly to make sure they weren’t only safe from the criminal element but now a viral organism that can potentially cause illness of up to death. LPD were able to continue to investigate and do their job fully suited and sanitized for their safety and others. Crime Stoppers, alongside Laredo Police Department and other partnered law enforcement agencies, worked tirelessly and relentlessly to do the job the community was counting on them to do. Laredo Crime Stoppers helps make our community a safer place to live and work. For more information on how you can support Laredo Crime Stoppers or the United Way of Laredo contact the United Way at uwlaredo@unitedwaylaredo.org or visit their website at www.unitedwaylaredo.org If you are in need of community resources and are not sure where to turn dial 2-1-1 for information on programs and services in available in our community. [wr_column span=”span4″ ][wr_image el_title=”donate” image_file=”https://unitedwaylaredo.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/PayPal-Donate-Button-High-Quality-PNG.png” image_size=”full” link_type=”url” image_type_url=”https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=LFUEMWNDDLUZG” open_in=”current_browser” image_container_style=”no-styling” image_alignment=”inherit” image_margin_bottom=”30″ appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ][/wr_image][/wr_column][wr_column span=”span4″ ]

Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center

The Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center (RBC) has been helping people for over 60 years. Jackie Rodriguez, Executive Director for The Cowl Center said, “Mrs. Cowl was an incredible lady. She had a vision to create a place that helps provide support programs for people suffering from polio with physical and emotional restoration.” With her compassion, Ruthe B. Cowl helped those with birth defects, strokes, brain injuries, amputations, and other conditions that could affect their quality of life. The Cowl Center’s mission is to assist all individuals with disabilities whose condition can be improved by the rehabilitation services offered by the center regardless of age, origins, race, nationality, creed, or economic status. United Way of Laredo supports the center with financial resources. United Way’s support helps The Cowl Center to provide vital program services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy. The also help patients with pain management, wound care, counseling, and social services. Robert Lozano was hospitalized last year after contracting COVID-19. During his hospitalization Mr. Lozano was intubated and placed in an induced coma for 25 days. While in the coma, he was diagnosed as having had a stroke. The stroke was attributed to a blood clot caused by the virus. Mr. Lozano’s road to recovery has been a long one. He was transferred from the hospital to a long-term recovery facility. By trade, Mr. Lozano worked in carpentry. He was able to work without limitations and provide for his family. Mr. Lozano lives with his wife, son, and daughter in a two-story house. His bedroom is on the second floor, but for now he is staying on the first floor in a hospital bed. Dr. Gustavo Villarreal, referred Mr. Lozano to The Cowl Center for skilled physical and occupational therapy. This therapy will help him to address the physical deficits left behind. Mr. Lozano is fortunate to have survived both the COVID-19 virus and the stroke. When Mr. Lozano first arrived at The Cowl Center, he was transported via ambulance and was on a stretcher due to his deconditioned physical state, unstable mobility, and inability to sit or stand. Today, Robert has met many goals such as sitting unsupported alongside his bed, standing with little assistance and walking using a walker with contact guard assistance for safety due to his rapid fatigue. Robert and his family feel that without the help of the dedicated and skilled therapists and rehab personnel at The Cowl Center, his current recovery status would not have been achieved. They are extremely grateful that they found the incredible resources at the Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center. Robert Lozano is just one example of the lives you touch when you give to United Way of Laredo. With your support, United Way is able to provide financial resources to agencies like Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center to ensure they are able to provide programs and services to those in need. For more information on how you can support the United Way of Laredo or any of their network of agencies contact the United Way at uwlaredo@unitedwaylaredo.org or visit their website at www.unitedwaylaredo.org If you are in need of community resources and are not sure where to turn dial 2-1-1 for information on programs and services in available in our community. https://vimeo.com/607447521

Literacy Volunteers of Laredo

Established in 1986, Literacy Volunteers of Laredo’s (LVL) mission is to provide confidential student-centered instruction and assistance from trained volunteers. Their goal is to provide adults with limited reading, writing, and/or English proficiency skills at no cost to their clients.Gloria Vasquez, Executive Director for the LVL, said “The program consists of staff who recruit, train, and match volunteer tutors with non-reading adults who need individualized basic reading. LVL also offers instruction for English as a second language (ESL). These classes are intended for those who are not native English speakers.” Beatriz M. Garcia Fuentes is a student in the LVL adult literacy program. LVL is helping her to achieve her dreams. Beatriz first joined LVL to improve her English, but she now hopes to become a United States citizen. Beatriz enjoys the classes because, she is surrounded with people just like her trying to learn. “At first, I was afraid that people would laugh at me. I was embarrassed but, LVL has helped me to get closer to my dream” Beatriz said. Vasquez shared that “Beatriz is so committed to achieving her goal that she has been recognized by her tutors for her perfect attendance.” While Beatriz’s goal is to become a US citizen, her dream is to be able to vote. Vasquez believes that the classes have increased Beatriz’s self-esteem. “She has pride in her abilities and her determination has encouraged her to move forward and succeed,” said Vasquez.Ms. Vasquez who has been with the organization for more than 10 years, has seen firsthand the great work that is accomplished by the organization. She is extremely grateful for all of the dedicated volunteers who tutor and serve on the organization’s board of directors. Vasquez said, “It is a blessing to see the smiles on our participant’s faces when they pass their citizenship test or receive their GED.” With your support, United Way is able to provide financial resources to agencies like Literacy Volunteers of Laredo to ensure they are able to provide their literacy assistance programs and services to those in need. Vasquez noted, “It’s amazing how vital it is to be able to read something as simple as a medicine prescription.” For more information on how you can support the United Way of Laredo or any of their network of agencies contact the United Way at uwlaredo@unitedwaylaredo.org or visit their website at www.unitedwaylaredo.org If you are in need of community resources and are not sure where to turn dial 2-1-1 for information on programs and services in available in our community. https://vimeo.com/606115687

Boys and Girls Clubs of Laredo

The Boys and Girls Clubs of Laredo is a safe haven for kids ages 6 to 12 to learn and grow. Their mission is to inspire and enable all young people, especially those from disadvantaged circumstances to realize their full potential as productive, responsible, and caring citizens. There are three clubs in Laredo: Roberto and Beatrice Benavides Club, the Lamar Bruni Vergara Club, and the Northwest Club. Every day, they impact the lives of children in our community and help shape them into well-rounded young adults. The Boys and Girls Clubs of Laredo provide a variety of recreational and education activities that help to foster children’s growth in their academics and creativity. They are able to play in the game room, use the arts and crafts area, have access to tutoring and a library, swimming, and much more. The Boys and Girls Club of Laredo help to bolster the educational and social development of youth while also helping to enrich their character. Many years ago, one young Laredoan grew up enjoying all the activities at the Boys Club. She made many friends there and developed from a little girl playing gymnastics to a young lady beating the boys at pool. She learned to give back by volunteering as a youth leader at the Main boy’s club. Today, this young lady is our District Judge Beckie Palomo. She credits the Boys and Girls Club for making her a confident, well-rounded individual with a deep desire for public service. Judge Beckie Palomo was elected to serve the 341st District Court for Webb County. She presides over heavy dockets of civil, family and criminal law cases. Judge Palomo is a strong advocate for youth programs. She conducts Courts in Schools program in an effort to educate students on the criminal justice system. She also implemented the Color of Justice program to help educate and encourage minority students to pursue a career in law. In 2016, Judge Palomo started her first Girl Power Conference to inspire young ladies to dream big. Judge Palomo shared that she learned to overcome some of her own struggles while growing up there. She fondly remembers that since her family lived only five blocks away from the Main club, she and her two sister would walk over every day. Judge Palomo says the Boys and Girls Club inspired her to dream big. She recalled attending the after-school program and participating in the summer swimming program. She reminisces about being the champion swimmer (every year) for her age division. She remembers beating the boys at air hockey and pool. Judge Palomo is an advocate for youth programs because she believes that when we invest in our youth, we invest in our community’s future. The Boys and Girls Clubs of Laredo is great way to invest in our youth. When you give to United Way, you help to ensure that agencies like the Boys and Girls Clubs are able to help children in our community. For more information on how you can support the United Way of Laredo or any of their network of agencies, contact the United Way at uwlaredo@unitedwaylaredo.org or visit their website at www.unitedwaylaredo.org If you are in need of community resources and are not sure where to turn dial 2-1-1 for information on programs and services in available in our community. https://vimeo.com/606049294

Bethany House

This past year has been extremely difficult on many families. With COVID-19 business closures, layoffs and shutdowns, the Galarza family knows first-hand how agencies like Bethany House of Laredo can make a great difference to families in need. The Galarza family became homeless soon after the husband lost his job, and his wife had her hours reduced due to the fallout from COVID-19 pandemic. The Galarza family had never been evicted before and didn’t know what to do next. They describe the situation as the most terrifying moments of their lives. They felt scared, hopeless and did not know where to turn. For three months the husband, wife and three children lived in their car with little to eat. One day, a friend told them to go to Bethany House, a place where the most important necessities are provided daily to those in need. There, the Galarza family was able to find shelter, and they were able to get three meals a day. The family was also able to get support services such as clothing, shoes and hygiene items. They were able to take a shower and do their laundry. During the worst point in their lives, the Galarza family, found hope at Bethany House; they were able to find a place to call home. With gratitude, Mrs. Galarza said, “Bethany House has been a blessing to us. They fed my children and immediately gave us a place to live when no one else would. We don’t know how much longer we could’ve been able to withstand living in the car. The nights were getting colder and the winter weather was extremely severe this year.” Today, Mr. Galarza has a job, while Mrs. Galarza stays at Bethany House to care for their three children. It’s been over eight months that the Galarza family have been living at the Bethany House which is giving them the opportunity to save money so that they can transition to permanent housing, a place of their own. The Galarza family is just one example of the lives you touch when you give to United Way of Laredo. With your support, United Way is able to provide financial resources to agencies like Bethany House to ensure they are able to provide programs and services to those in need. For more information on how you can support the United Way of Laredo or any of their network of agencies contact the United Way at uwlaredo@unitedwaylaredo.org or visit their website at www.unitedwaylaredo.org If you are in need of community resources and are not sure where to turn dial 2-1-1 for information on programs and services in available in our community. [wr_column span=”span4″ ][wr_image el_title=”donate” image_file=”https://unitedwaylaredo.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/PayPal-Donate-Button-High-Quality-PNG.png” image_size=”full” link_type=”url” image_type_url=”https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=LFUEMWNDDLUZG” open_in=”current_browser” image_container_style=”no-styling” image_alignment=”inherit” image_margin_bottom=”30″ appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ][/wr_image][/wr_column][wr_column span=”span4″ ]

Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities is a non-profit organization providing program services through the Diocese of Laredo. In partnership with United Way of Laredo, Catholic Charities help families and individuals to overcome challenging hardships by providing emergency assistance. Through their homeless prevention program, they can assist qualifying clients with rent, utilities and food. Additionally, Catholic Charities provides disaster relief services, humanitarian aid, volunteer income tax service, a medical mission, senior services, legal immigration services, emergency assistance and emergency food baskets for those in need. Mr. Maestre had worked all his life, but in 2018 he began to have problems with his eyesight. While at work, he was not able to see a step and fell. Since then, Mr. Maestre had to stop working. This is when his financial difficulties began. After several surgeries, his eyesight began to improve. In March of 2020, he began to look for work. He found a job with a company; however, the COVID-19 pandemic put a stop to his employment. The company had to put aside all new contacts because of shutdowns and restrictions. With reduced savings and no one to turn to, Mr. Maestre, went to Catholic Charities to seek help for his rent payment. The rent assistance would help him avoid eviction and enable him to keep his home. Mr. Maestre is extremely grateful to Catholic Charities and United Way for the help he received. Rebecca Solloa, executive director for the agency noted, “The mission statement of Catholic Charities is to assist with the emergency needs of the indigent with FAITH, HOPE and CHARITY. We believe that all people have the right to live in an environment that is free of abuse, violence, fear and oppression.” Established in early 1970 and serving the counties of Dimmit, Jim Hogg, La Salle, Maverick, Webb, Zapata, and Zavala CCDOL strives to strengthen and empower families through its diverse programs and social services. All programs and services are provided without regard to religion, race, income, disability or sexual orientation. With your support, United Way is able to provide financial resources to agencies like Catholic Charities to ensure they are able to provide their homeless assistance programs and services to those in need. For more information on how you can support the United Way of Laredo or any of their network of agencies contact the United Way at uwlaredo@unitedwaylaredo.org or visit their website at www.unitedwaylaredo.org If you are in need of community resources and are not sure where to turn dial 2-1-1 for information on programs and services in available in our community. [wr_column span=”span4″ ][wr_image el_title=”donate” image_file=”https://unitedwaylaredo.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/PayPal-Donate-Button-High-Quality-PNG.png” image_size=”full” link_type=”url” image_type_url=”https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=LFUEMWNDDLUZG” open_in=”current_browser” image_container_style=”no-styling” image_alignment=”inherit” image_margin_bottom=”30″ appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ][/wr_image][/wr_column][wr_column span=”span4″ ]

Casa de Misericordia

Maria is extremely grateful to Casa de Misericordia for their understanding, counseling, support and help. Maria shared that when she met Jose, their relationship began moving quickly. At first, he was very kind and introduced me to his parents and family. When we got married, he arranged for me to obtain a visa so that I could come into the United States. She said, “We agreed that our children would have a better future if they were born in the US.” It was during our first pregnancy that I observed how often he went out to drink with his friends. When my son was born, I tried to keep Jose occupied with helping me care for the baby. Jose complained and said that taking care of the children is a woman’s duty. That’s how it was in his family and that’s how it would be now. “When I confronted Jose in front of his parents, his father reprimanded me quickly and told me that I needed to be put in my place. Jose called me useless, told me that I was worthless, called me ungrateful and other inappropriate names. He accused me of having married him out of convenience to fix my legal status. It was he who approached me and sought me out to go out with him. His drinking habits continued to worsen and increase. After so many altercations with my husband, and after moving from one place to another to get away from him, a counselor with whom I spoke to on the phone told me about Casa de Misericordia. It was Casa de Misericordia that helped me get the intervention I needed. “It wasn’t easy. I had become completely dependent on him. I felt lost, but Casa gave me hope. I am thankful to them for all the support they have gave me and my children. I continue attending classes at the education center. They offer classes for sewing, cooking, reading, computers, music and much more. I also continue attending their support groups. With their help, I was able to begin the process to obtain immigration status. Today, I can travel with my children to visit my family in Houston. I am strong mother who has come a long way. My name is Maria and I am a survivor of domestic violence.” Casa de Misericordia is a non-profit organization that provides programs and services with the support of grants and donations. They are a proud member of the United Way of Laredo family of agencies. Your support of United Way, helps to ensure that agencies like Casa de Misericordia are able to help families in our community. They have caseworkers and counselors to help their clients and families. For more information on how you can support the United Way of Laredo or any of their network of agencies contact the United Way at uwlaredo@unitedwaylaredo.org or visit their website at www.unitedwaylaredo.org If you are in need of community resources and are not sure where to turn dial 2-1-1 for information on programs and services in available in our community.

Gateway Community Health Center

Since 1989, Gateway Community Health Center (GCHC) has been providing excellence in health care for the underserved population of Webb County, Texas. The organization began as a sub-component of the local health department in 1963, serving only migrants in the area. Gateway Health Center successfully expanded its service region in 2009 by receiving federal funding approval to provide primary health care services for residents in neighboring Jim Hogg and Zapata Counties. Elmo Lopez, Jr., CEO said, “Our mission is to provide quality health care for everyone. Our vision is to be a leader in providing access to comprehensive primary healthcare through clinical excellence, superior customer service and a valued workforce.” Gateway has women’s health services which includes breast and cervical cancer screening, free pregnancy tests, and other gynecological care. They also offer pediatric services and immunizations for newborns and children up to 18 years of age. The Clinic also offers oral health services and podiatry care services. They also have a pharmacy and lab services for blood and other specimens which are sent out to an out-of-town reference lab. The Salinas family have been clients of Gateway Health Clinic for over 8 years. Mom, Belen Salinas shares, “we are very happy with the services at Gateway.” She said, “We have six daughters and with limited insurance, it is the best fit for our family. We schedule all of our pediatric appointments and immunizations at the clinic. We also schedule all of the girls’ dental visits here. They get their six month cleanings and regular check-ups. Dr. Cavazos is great with children.” The father, Mr. Salinas added, “most people are afraid of going to the dentist, but the staff here at Gateway are incredible. The girls always enjoy coming for their visits.” Belen added, “The best thing about Gateway is that it has so many service to help its clients. They have a women’s health program, the pediatric clinic, a non-emergency after hour clinic, nutritional services for those with diabetes, a pharmacy and lab work. With the current pandemic, they have also added testing and vaccines at their locations.” The Gateway Community Health Clinic is just one of the agencies you support when you give to United Way of Laredo. With your support, United Way is able to provide financial resources to agencies like Gateway ensure they are able to provide services to those in need. For more information on how you can support the United Way of Laredo or any of their network of agencies contact the United Way at uwlaredo@unitedwaylaredo.org or visit their website at www.unitedwaylaredo.org If you are in need of community resources and are not sure where to turn dial 2-1-1 for information on programs and services in available in our community. [wr_column span=”span4″ ][wr_image el_title=”donate” image_file=”https://unitedwaylaredo.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/PayPal-Donate-Button-High-Quality-PNG.png” image_size=”full” link_type=”url” image_type_url=”https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=LFUEMWNDDLUZG” open_in=”current_browser” image_container_style=”no-styling” image_alignment=”inherit” image_margin_bottom=”30″ appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ][/wr_image][/wr_column][wr_column span=”span4″ ]

SCAN

Since 1982, Serving Children and Adults in Need (SCAN) has been serving the Laredo community. SCAN provides services to a wide range of populations such as families experiencing family conflict; youth and children in at-risk situations; youth and adults with substance use disorders; victims of sexual assault and violence; children and adolescents who have experienced a traumatic event; children who have been abused and/or neglected; mother and babies who are experiencing stress; and other populations. SCAN has its main office in Laredo, Webb County, where it offers most of its residential programs including an emergency youth shelter, a transitional living program, and four residential substance use treatment programs. SCAN continues to serve the community in several other counties with a total of 10 satellite offices along the Texas-Mexico border. SCAN strives to help individuals achieve their full potential and provides empowerment opportunities to help them succeed utilizing best practices and evidence-based interventions that are grounded in the communities’ culture and language. SCAN staff members strive to promote resiliency and long-term recovery. Keylen was referred to SCAN by a school counselor around May 2021 due to family losses and experiencing family conflict with extended family members. She could not stay with them and found herself homeless. The SCAN case manager went to the school to interview her and immediately placed her at SCAN’s Emergency Youth Shelter. At the shelter, she was provided with residential services, counseling, case management and emergency clothing. The first weeks at the shelter focused on helping her become stable and adjusting to the structure of the shelter. She made the decision to go to school in-person and she was provided with transportation to and from school. She excelled in school. She continues living at the shelter. She graduated from high school this May 2021. She is now working part time with a community leader, who offered her a job. Keylen is now thriving. The shelter was instrumental in giving her the physical and emotional resources she needed for her continued growth and development. Once she turns 18, she will transfer to SCAN’s Transitional Living Program where she can stay long term, go to college, and make a successful transition to adulthood. Keylen is just one example of the lives you touch when you give to United Way of Laredo. With your support, United Way is able to provide financial resources to agencies like SCAN to ensure they are able to provide programs and services to those in need. For more information on how you can support the United Way of Laredo or any of their network of agencies contact the United Way at uwlaredo@unitedwaylaredo.org or visit their website at www.unitedwaylaredo.org If you are in need of community resources and are not sure where to turn dial 2-1-1 for information on programs and services in available in our community. [wr_column span=”span4″ ][wr_image el_title=”donate” image_file=”https://unitedwaylaredo.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/PayPal-Donate-Button-High-Quality-PNG.png” image_size=”full” link_type=”url” image_type_url=”https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=LFUEMWNDDLUZG” open_in=”current_browser” image_container_style=”no-styling” image_alignment=”inherit” image_margin_bottom=”30″ appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ][/wr_image][/wr_column][wr_column span=”span4″ ]