Catholic Charities Diocese of Laredo
Catholic Charities- Diocese of Laredo (CCDOL) is a non-profit organization under the auspices of the Diocese of Laredo that was established in the 1970s. CCDOL is a community based organization that has been serving the community of Laredo, and the areas of Dimmit, Jim Hogg, La Salle, Maverick, Webb, Zapata, and Zavala. CCDOL has grown to become efficient in providing countless direct services to individuals and families who live in economically distraught areas. Catholic Charities-Diocese of Laredo is devoted to assisting the emergency needs of the indigent, such as the case of Mrs. Aguilar and her two children. Last year, Mrs. Aguilar requested the assistance of Catholic Charities when she and her children found themselves homeless and hungry. Due to a severe injury, Mrs. Aguilar found herself at the hospital with a five to twelve-month recovery period, leaving her unable to work. Ultimately, she was left unable to work over the recovery period and lost her home. These unfortunate events led to her and her children living in their compact car for over two weeks. All it took was one phone call, and Mrs. Aguilar was immediately provided with assistance. Catholic Charities was able to provide her and her family with bags of food, blankets, hygiene products, and a gift card for gas. With the help of a social and human service assistant, Mrs. Aguilar was urged to find a home and was provided with funds to pay for the first month’s rent. Within a day, Mrs. Aguilar and her children were able to find a place to call home. The Aguilar Family is eternally grateful to Catholic Charities for all the support they provided. Most importantly, they are thankful for the compassion and empathy they received from Catholic Charities. Catholic Charities–Diocese of Laredo is one of the many nonprofit agencies in the city of Laredo that receives funding from United Way of Laredo. With the help of United Way, Catholic Charities is able to continue to assist families, the indigent and the homeless. Catholic Charities-Diocese of Laredo strives to support families through its diverse programs and social services. Its wide range of programs and resources enables Catholic Charities to meet the unique needs of the community and its people [wr_row width=”boxed” background=”none” solid_color_value=”#FFFFFF” solid_color_color=”#ffffff” gradient_color=”0% #FFFFFF,100% #000000″ gradient_direction=”vertical” repeat=”full” img_repeat=”full” autoplay=”yes” position=”center center” paralax=”no” border_width_value_=”0″ border_style=”solid” border_color=”#000″ div_padding_top=”10″ div_padding_bottom=”10″ div_padding_right=”10″ div_padding_left=”10″ ][wr_column span=”span12″ ][wr_heading el_title=”be a hero” tag=”h1″ text_align=”center” heading_margin_top=”5″ heading_margin_bottom=”10″ font=”inherit” enable_underline=”yes” border_bottom_style=”solid” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ]BE A HERO, HELP US HELP OTHERS BY DONATING[/wr_heading][wr_image #_EDITTED el_title=”paypal” image_file=”https://unitedwaylaredo.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/PayPal-Donate-Button-High-Quality-PNG.png” image_size=”medium” 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=”center” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ][/wr_image][/wr_column][/wr_row]
Laredo Animal Protective Society
The Laredo Animal Protective Society is best known for its efforts at being the only local no kill animal shelter. LAPS provides a nurturing home for stray animals. The organization helps the Laredo community by taking in homeless cats and dogs and providing low cost vaccines. LAPS also extends its efforts to educate the community. The agency provides instruction to children at schools and to the community on how to be a responsible pet owner. The team at LAPS provides its best efforts to find permanent and devoted homes for the animals that end up there. When animals are adopted from the organization, they are fully vaccinated and are spayed and neutered. This is accomplished with the help of United Way of Laredo. “United Way has been instrumental in helping LAPS for many years,” explained LAPS Board President Susie Druker. United Way assists LAPS by providing funds for vouchers for spay and neuter services that LAPS can distribute to the community. Mrs. Druker explained that this helps with combating the problem of the animal overpopulation in the city. It brings Mrs. Druker great joy to foster and give a voice to those that do not have one, such as the case of Minnie. After an extensive night of working at the animal shelter, a LAPS board member and manager saw an innocent dog tied to a pole outside with a heavy chain. The only thing that was left with the dog was a note stating, “My name is Minnie.” The LAPS team instantaneously sprang into action to comfort Minnie, who the team realized is blind. She quickly went from being scared dog to a happy dog, who wags her tail and licks faces. Minnie quickly became comfortable at the shelter, learned her feeding schedule, and happily greeted all the volunteers and staff. Everyone was hopeful that she would find a forever home because she had a sweet and playful nature. Time passed and Minnie had yet to be adopted. The weather soon began to get cold. LAPS launched a great campaign to foster all the dogs during the extremely cold days. Many volunteers opened their homes to keep the dogs warm, but Minnie still had not found a foster home. Fortunately, the LAPS Board President walked into to the shelter with her children who kept pressuring her to foster a dog. After learning about Minnie’s story, she agreed to take Minnie home that cold day. Minnie is no longer in foster care. She has been adopted and is now in her “forever” home. She has been through an ordeal because she is visually impaired. Luckily, Minnie was left at a loving shelter where she is given care, love, and the attention she deserves. She is waiting for the right person who will adopt her. Maybe the person reading this is just that person. LAPS is extremely happy to have rescued Minnie, but would like to take the time to remind the public that it is against Texas Law (penal code 42.092) to abandon a pet. The community is strongly encouraged not to abandon pets, but rather make reasonable arrangements for their care. [wr_row width=”boxed” background=”none” solid_color_value=”#FFFFFF” solid_color_color=”#ffffff” gradient_color=”0% #FFFFFF,100% #000000″ gradient_direction=”vertical” repeat=”full” img_repeat=”full” autoplay=”yes” position=”center center” paralax=”no” border_width_value_=”0″ border_style=”solid” border_color=”#000″ div_padding_top=”10″ div_padding_bottom=”10″ div_padding_right=”10″ div_padding_left=”10″ ][wr_column span=”span12″ ][wr_heading el_title=”be a hero” tag=”h1″ text_align=”center” heading_margin_top=”5″ heading_margin_bottom=”10″ font=”inherit” enable_underline=”yes” border_bottom_style=”solid” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ]BE A HERO, HELP US HELP OTHERS BY DONATING[/wr_heading][wr_image #_EDITTED el_title=”paypal” image_file=”https://unitedwaylaredo.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/PayPal-Donate-Button-High-Quality-PNG.png” image_size=”medium” 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=”center” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ][/wr_image][/wr_column][/wr_row]
Laredo Crime Stoppers, Inc.
Laredo Crime Stoppers, Inc. was established in 1981. The agency was designed to serve the community of Laredo-Webb County. Vigilant citizens can report suspicious activity they witness. By reporting the skeptical activities, citizens can help prevent and/or solve a crime, and report the whereabouts of fugitives. When a call comes in through the Laredo Crime Stopper TIPS line, it is guaranteed to be anonymous. TIPSTER can receive a cash reward of up to $1,000 if the information provided leads to an arrest, drug seizure, or recovered property. In collaboration with the community of Laredo, law enforcement, and the media, a prime example of a crime solved through the Laredo Crime Stoppers was headlined in the Laredo Morning Times on July 1, 2017 as Suspected drug house discovered near elementary school. Substantial information was received through the Laredo Crime Stoppers hotline explaining that there was a home suspected of selling drugs. The tipster reported over the new mobile application all the significant details such as time, days, and the types of drugs that were being sold. This information was crucial to help the investigators organize the execution of a warrant to raid the home. The search ended with the arrest and charge of two individuals with manufacture and delivery of a controlled substance. Laredo Crime Stoppers Inc. Executive Director Colleen Rodriguez strongly believes that “The community are the ears and eyes of the police, where police cannot be and might just have that piece of information that is needed to solve the crime.” Justice will be served and will prevail in the hands of heedful citizens. It is up to the community to protect and help one another. Thankfully, for our Laredo Community the organization is a state certified crime stopper program. This means that the agency provides and guarantees complete anonymity that is protected by the law. In addition to Laredo Crime Stoppers achievements that are recognized by the collective effort of law enforcement, the community, and the media is United Way of Laredo. Monies can be scare, but with the support from United Way Laredo Crime Stoppers can continue day-to-day operations. Additionally, with the assistance United Way provides, the agency can continue providing rewards and provide community education to increase awareness. Since its founding in 1981, more than 265,000 calls have been answered and 4,247 suspects have been arrested by the Laredo Crime Stoppers. 6.5 million worth of stolen property has been recovered, more than $290 million worth of narcotics has been seized, and about half a million dollars in cash has been paid in rewards. Laredo Crime Stoppers pursues to be used as a means to battle crime and keep the community of Laredo protected. To report suspicious activity, contact the TIPS line at 727-8477 or toll free at 1-800-558-8477. Tips can also be reported anonymously via text and web on laredocrimestoppers.org or through the available P3 application for Android and Apple Devices. [wr_row width=”boxed” background=”none” solid_color_value=”#FFFFFF” solid_color_color=”#ffffff” gradient_color=”0% #FFFFFF,100% #000000″ gradient_direction=”vertical” repeat=”full” img_repeat=”full” autoplay=”yes” position=”center center” paralax=”no” border_width_value_=”0″ border_style=”solid” border_color=”#000″ div_padding_top=”10″ div_padding_bottom=”10″ div_padding_right=”10″ div_padding_left=”10″ ][wr_column span=”span12″ ][wr_heading el_title=”be a hero” tag=”h1″ text_align=”center” heading_margin_top=”5″ heading_margin_bottom=”10″ font=”inherit” enable_underline=”yes” border_bottom_style=”solid” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ]BE A HERO, HELP US HELP OTHERS BY DONATING[/wr_heading][wr_image #_EDITTED el_title=”paypal” image_file=”https://unitedwaylaredo.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/PayPal-Donate-Button-High-Quality-PNG.png” image_size=”medium” 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=”center” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ][/wr_image][/wr_column][/wr_row]
Bethany House
A delicious meal five days a week. In addition to their children’s meal program is Luz De Esperanza Saturday education program where 25 children participate and receive breakfast and lunch. The last meal program the Bethany House provides are street corner meals. This program delivers over 170 meals to homeless people living on the streets in north Laredo. In addition to its feed the hungry program, the Bethany House provides many services that include sheltering the homeless, educating children, and community events. The Bethany In 1982, Father Charles McNaboe established the Bethany House. In 1984, the Bethany House received its nonprofit position, soon after services began to rapidly grow. What originated as a simple soup kitchen to serve hot meals to seventeen homeless individuals grew into a deep-rooted kitchen operation that serves hundreds of individuals on-site and delivers meals throughout the Laredo Community. In 2002, the Bethany house gained a second property to open a shelter and a transition-housing complex. This initiated the setups of Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Resource Center and Lamar Bruni Vergara Community Shelter. The Bethany House gained a permanent home, after a generous donation of property deeds was gifted by the family of Maria Bruni Leyendecker in 2009. With the support from Sharing Hope campaign in 2008, the grandest expansion of the Bethany House was made possible. In 2014, The Barbara A. Kazen Center for Hope was established. With this new addition, the Bethany House can serve over two-thousand people in need including Nora and her son Jude. After Nora and the father of her son Jude ended their relationship, she had no support from her biological family. Nora became homeless and desperate for a place to live. She was referred to the Bethany House after receiving advice from a team at the Casa de Misericordia. Nora is a fighter and realized that with a little help, she can get back on her feet again. Nora took an advantage of the resources that were presented to her and visited a case manager regularly. The Bethany House provided her assistance with shelter, transportation, childcare, and became employed with a great job. She was now able to begin her new life. Nora is now back on her feet and improving her life while Jude is a joyful and thriving baby. She credits her success to the Bethany House where she received a lot of support and guidance from a caring and loving staff. Nora remains a strong and independent role model to her son. With the assistance of United Way of Laredo, Bethany House is able to assist thousands of people throughout our Laredo community through their various meal programs. The Bethany House provides on-site meals that include breakfast, lunch, and dinner and is offered six days out of the week to any clients. More than 1,250 meals are served daily. The Bethany House also offers homebound meals that are delivered every day to indigent, elderly and disabled citizens. An estimate of 500 meals are delivered daily, five days a week. The Kids’ Café is a meal program that the Bethany House provides for children after school. An average of 145 children receiveHouse provides emergency shelters to provide short-term housing and transitional housing units that allows stable environments for families. The Guadalupe and Lilia Martinez Resource Center provides basic living amenities such as access to showers, bathrooms, laundry, telephones, and fresh drinking water. People who are interested in reintegrating into the workforce can request assistance from a case manager provided by the Bethany House. Through the work of Luz De Esperanza Learning Program, a volunteer teacher provides school work tutoring, arts and craft classes. In addition to this, the education program provides tours and demonstrations at art and musical festivals, exhibits, and campouts. The Bethany House also delivers an after-school tutoring program with the help of a Laredo ISD certified teacher. The program is done at the Resource Center, which provides a small library, computer, and quiet place to complete schoolwork. In addition to all the resources the Bethany House provides, it coordinates and participates in community events. The Bethany House twice a year hosts a health fair for information and services. Approximately, twenty-five agencies participate and over three hundred clients attend. In coordination with the Laredo Homeless Coalition, the Bethany House participates in the March against Hunger and Homelessness. Lastly, the Bethany House provides Faith-Based Services. Mass celebrations are conducted every first Friday of each month, special events, and church holidays. All guests are welcomed to the faith-based services. [wr_row width=”boxed” background=”none” solid_color_value=”#FFFFFF” solid_color_color=”#ffffff” gradient_color=”0% #FFFFFF,100% #000000″ gradient_direction=”vertical” repeat=”full” img_repeat=”full” autoplay=”yes” position=”center center” paralax=”no” border_width_value_=”0″ border_style=”solid” border_color=”#000″ div_padding_top=”10″ div_padding_bottom=”10″ div_padding_right=”10″ div_padding_left=”10″ ][wr_column span=”span12″ ][wr_heading el_title=”be a hero” tag=”h1″ text_align=”center” heading_margin_top=”5″ heading_margin_bottom=”10″ font=”inherit” enable_underline=”yes” border_bottom_style=”solid” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ]BE A HERO, HELP US HELP OTHERS BY DONATING[/wr_heading][wr_image #_EDITTED el_title=”paypal” image_file=”https://unitedwaylaredo.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/PayPal-Donate-Button-High-Quality-PNG.png” image_size=”medium” 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=”center” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ][/wr_image][/wr_column][/wr_row]
Imaginarium of South Texas
The awareness for a Children’s Museum in Laredo began in the 1980s as the late Cecilia Martinez Claflin, curator for the Nuevo Santander Museum, saw the need for a place where children learn with manipulatives. She researched the concept and together with a group of educators and concerned citizens established goals that would determine the direction and possibility of such a museum. The museum was incorporated on November 26, 1990. The Laredo Children’s Museum officially opened its doors on September 11, 1991. Twenty-six years later, now located at Mall Del Norte, the Imaginarium of South Texas, continues to “Grow Together” with educators, citizens, and the community. The Imaginarium of South Texas is Laredo’s only children’s museum and informal science education center that has grown its programming to include a wider audience and continues to provide exhibits and curricula that focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM). In the eleven years since relocating to Mall Del Norte in February of 2007, the Imaginarium of South Texas has welcomed over 500,000 visitors to its facility. “At the heart of our operations is a simple goal: to provide opportunities for children and families to engage in the creative process when learning about the world around them,” explained Executive Director of Imaginarium South Texas, Sandra Cavazos Ayala. The Imaginarium of South Texas strongly believes in providing a bi-cultural and creative learning experience to local and out-of- town families largely through hands-on exhibits that enrich individual sense of inquiry and that inspire youth with a focus on Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics (STEAM). “We believe that children learn best by doing,” explained Mrs. Cavazos Ayala. The Imaginarium of South Texas team is dedicated to making evident the way children think, imagine, design, invent, and create when given intelligent materials. All of the exhibits at the Imaginarium of South Texas include top-notch educational marketing and installation materials, approachable support from qualified staff, and graphics presented in English and Spanish. Some of the exhibits the museum offers include an active T-rex, a stimulating toddler area, H-E-B Kid’s Market, and a grand Kid’s Library. United Way generously supports the Imaginarium of South Texas by providing funds for outreach programs. This outreach program aims to engage and excite children and families with hands-on fun using real and varied materials. In 2017, the staff of The Imaginarium of South Texas participated and traveled to numerous community events in Laredo and Webb County. They Provided STEAM opportunities for hundreds of children and families at places such as Mall Del Norte during all their seasonal activities, Spring Mercadito Fest, Annual Family Summer Fest, and Laredo Heat Day to name a few. The Imaginarium of South Texas welcomes visitors who come from near and far. The museum impacts thousands of children, families, and schools with each growing year. In 2016, they welcomed 60,000 visitors, 25 outreaches (impacted 12,000 children and adults), 400 volunteers, 60 school groups, and 15 educational camps. At the Imaginarium of South Texas, the team encourages children to take lead in their own learning. The exhibits and programming extend opportunities for self-expression, choice, and creative control during a museum visit. [wr_row width=”boxed” background=”none” solid_color_value=”#FFFFFF” solid_color_color=”#ffffff” gradient_color=”0% #FFFFFF,100% #000000″ gradient_direction=”vertical” repeat=”full” img_repeat=”full” autoplay=”yes” position=”center center” paralax=”no” border_width_value_=”0″ border_style=”solid” border_color=”#000″ div_padding_top=”10″ div_padding_bottom=”10″ div_padding_right=”10″ div_padding_left=”10″ ][wr_column span=”span12″ ][wr_heading el_title=”be a hero” tag=”h1″ text_align=”center” heading_margin_top=”5″ heading_margin_bottom=”10″ font=”inherit” enable_underline=”yes” border_bottom_style=”solid” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ]BE A HERO, HELP US HELP OTHERS BY DONATING[/wr_heading][wr_image #_EDITTED el_title=”paypal” image_file=”https://unitedwaylaredo.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/PayPal-Donate-Button-High-Quality-PNG.png” image_size=”medium” 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=”center” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ][/wr_image][/wr_column][/wr_row]
Kidney Foundation of Laredo- Javier Jasso
“It’s been a struggle, but I am not willing to give up,” explained Javier Jasso. After a battle with pneumonia and falling into a coma for two weeks, Javier’s kidneys began to stop functioning. The aftermath of his illness has led to Javier struggling with Chronic Kidney Disease. Through the guidance of the Kidney Foundation of Laredo, Javier is now a dialysis patient at Satellite Healthcare Clinic and receives outpatient dialysis treatment three times a week. The Kidney Foundation of Laredo originated in 1977. It works determinedly to fight the battle against kidney disease. The foundation assists their patients with transportation, utilities, groceries, and some medical expenses. The Kidney Foundation also provides its patients with Nepro, a protein supplement and vitamins. With the help of his family, friends, and the staff at the clinic, Javier began to recover his strength and gain a positive perspective. He explained that he knew with time and support he can heal physically and mentally. Javier has recovered immensely and began attending Texas A&M International University to receive his degree in Arts & Sciences. Javier’s goals include receiving his degree and becoming employed by a school district. Some days are very challenging for Javier. It can sometimes be difficult to find the urge to continue pursuing his goals because the dialysis treatment can be very demanding on his body. “I am grateful to the Kidney Foundation of Laredo for helping me with costs that I did not expect,” explained Javier. United Way of Laredo assists our community by making it possible to educate and come into contact with people who are suffering from kidney disease. Through the Kidney Foundation, United Way helped him by funding the transportation for his dialysis. This support allows Javier to focus on furthering his higher education. Javier explained that with the support of United Way, the Kidney Foundation of Laredo was able to help him quickly without having to question his situation. The Kidney foundation of Laredo has helped countless people throughout the Laredo community. The amount of people that suffer from kidney disease is increasing. The Kidney Foundation of Laredo helps advocate prevention of kidney disease to the community of Laredo [wr_row width=”boxed” background=”none” solid_color_value=”#FFFFFF” solid_color_color=”#ffffff” gradient_color=”0% #FFFFFF,100% #000000″ gradient_direction=”vertical” repeat=”full” img_repeat=”full” autoplay=”yes” position=”center center” paralax=”no” border_width_value_=”0″ border_style=”solid” border_color=”#000″ div_padding_top=”10″ div_padding_bottom=”10″ div_padding_right=”10″ div_padding_left=”10″ ][wr_column span=”span12″ ][wr_heading el_title=”be a hero” tag=”h1″ text_align=”center” heading_margin_top=”5″ heading_margin_bottom=”10″ font=”inherit” enable_underline=”yes” border_bottom_style=”solid” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ]BE A HERO, HELP US HELP OTHERS BY DONATING[/wr_heading][wr_image #_EDITTED el_title=”paypal” image_file=”https://unitedwaylaredo.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/PayPal-Donate-Button-High-Quality-PNG.png” image_size=”medium” 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=”center” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ][/wr_image][/wr_column][/wr_row]
The Salvation Army- Leilani “Lani” Cantu
“I want to join this church, this is amazing,” Leilani “Lani” Cantu excitingly declared to me. As a young child, Lani’s mother Adriana Cantu involved Lani in the Salvation Army. After hearing Lieutenant Aguirre’s words that wholeheartedly touched her, Lani decided she wanted to be a part of the Salvation Army. The School of Music Program provided by The Salvation Army allowed Lani the privilege to advance her music skills on the trumpet through classes offered in brass. She was also granted the opportunity to learn a second instrument through guitar lessons. Through this remarkable music program, she attended the Regional Salvation Army Music Program in Corpus Christi, Texas. After completing the music program Lani was presented a certificate and scholarship to attend the Salvation Texas Youth Music Conservatory Camp Hoblitzelle in Waxahachie, Texas. Lani excelled in camp. She participated in various musical classes. She was awarded a medal for Girls Chorus Award TYMI 2017 and Ballentine Chorus Award Senior Conservatory 2017. The Salvation Army’s first officers arrived in 1921. The arrival was the start of almost 100 years of successful community service The Salvation Army church assists the poor, homeless, and any person seeking religious services. The program also offers shelter, meals, a family thrift store, rent assistance, and clothing and household goods for people in need in Laredo. Additionally, it is known for Christmas charity activities, disaster relieve, and provides assistance to the community who are ill and elderly. The Salvation Army relies on support from the community, employees, volunteers, and its partnership with United Way of Laredo. United Way of Laredo provides funding to The Salvation Army. The resources provided go straight towards their community and family centered programs. Through the assistance of The Salvation Army, Lani improved her instrumental skills. She progressed from the 13th to the 6th chair in the Martin High School band. The greatest impact Lani experienced was her gain of spiritual formation through her involvement in The Salvation Army Church. She strongly believes that through the youth group, participants experience new things that touch hearts with the work of God. “The first time I came here, I cried.” She explained. Lani has first handedly experienced the work of God that touched her heart. She credits The Salvation Army Church for helping her overcome her depression in middle school. She explained she became very disconnected from her family and friends, but The Salvation Army helped pull her out of her state of depression. Without The Salvation Army, Lani believes she would not be the confident and cheerful person that she is. She credits the program for instilling confidence in her. She strongly hopes that more individuals will be involved in the program, so there can be more Salvation Army Soldiers setting a good example for the community. [wr_row width=”boxed” background=”none” solid_color_value=”#FFFFFF” solid_color_color=”#ffffff” gradient_color=”0% #FFFFFF,100% #000000″ gradient_direction=”vertical” repeat=”full” img_repeat=”full” autoplay=”yes” position=”center center” paralax=”no” border_width_value_=”0″ border_style=”solid” border_color=”#000″ div_padding_top=”10″ div_padding_bottom=”10″ div_padding_right=”10″ div_padding_left=”10″ ][wr_column span=”span12″ ][wr_heading el_title=”be a hero” tag=”h1″ text_align=”center” heading_margin_top=”5″ heading_margin_bottom=”10″ font=”inherit” enable_underline=”yes” border_bottom_style=”solid” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ]BE A HERO, HELP US HELP OTHERS BY DONATING[/wr_heading][wr_image #_EDITTED el_title=”paypal” image_file=”https://unitedwaylaredo.org/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/PayPal-Donate-Button-High-Quality-PNG.png” image_size=”medium” 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=”center” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ][/wr_image][/wr_column][/wr_row]
Children’s Advocacy Center of Laredo- Webb County- Vanessa Ibarra
The Children’s Advocacy Center of Laredo has grown to unite a mass of services to educate the community of Webb County on child abuse, and allow the victims of abuse and their families to reconcile in a positive environment. In 1993, Jose M. Rubio, Jr., Webb County District Attorney, unified a group of Laredoans, all who are associated with children’s services. His focus was to construct a system that would respond to the child abuse cases in a routine that would not continue to traumatize the young victim. His determination provided a unified response that links the diverse agencies that respond to the outcries. Ultimately, this led to eliminating what was at that time countless agencies such as law enforcement, child protective services, school counselors, medical and psychological service providers, from all responding to young victims of abuse. What originated as an informal team soon became, under Webb County District Attorney Rubio’s guidance, the Children’s Advocacy Center of Laredo-Webb County certified as a non-profit organization in 1995. Crime Victim’s Coordinator Vanessa Ibarra was first introduced to the Children’s Advocacy Center as an intern during her final internship upon completion of her higher education. “I just stuck around after, I love working with children,” declared Vanessa. She plays a vital role of a figure of support for victims and their families. Vanessa is continuously responsible for finding resources for the victims and families of crime. She also assists the families in accessing community resources such as counseling services, medical attention, and if needed a place to stay. In addition to her many assigned duties, Vanessa whole heartedly engages in active listening and support. Current developments Vanessa has been operating on include working with Honorable Judge Becky Palomo in launching Kids in Court. This successful program targets and prepares victims of abuse who will be testifying in court. Kids in Court successfully instills confidence in children who may need to testify. Along with this Vanessa expanded efforts to enlighten the community by hosting the 1st Youth S.P.E.A.K. Conference (Students Pursuing Education and Knowledge). The program will allow one hundred 10th grade students the opportunity to learn about cyberbullying, mental health, the law, and dating violence. On a personal note, The Children’s Advocacy Center of Laredo has opened Vanessa’s life to a lot of new processes. She is now able to understand how to satisfy the needs of open cases so they can be approved and closed. As a strong advocate for her clients, Vanessa is able to keep progressing. She accomplishes this with all the positive feedback from her clients and their families. The positive feedback helped her realize that she is making a difference in their lives. United Way of Laredo supports The Children’s Advocacy Center of Laredo by providing resources for its’ active projects. United Way allows the agency the privilege to pursue projects freely without the worry and stress of how to fund them. Since its launch, the Children’s Advocacy Center has treated many young victims as well as their peers and non-offending adult family members. [wr_row width=”boxed” background=”none” solid_color_value=”#FFFFFF” solid_color_color=”#ffffff” gradient_color=”0% #FFFFFF,100% #000000″ gradient_direction=”vertical” repeat=”full” img_repeat=”full” autoplay=”yes” position=”center center” paralax=”no” border_width_value_=”0″ border_style=”solid” border_color=”#000″ div_padding_top=”10″ div_padding_bottom=”10″ div_padding_right=”10″ div_padding_left=”10″ ][wr_column span=”span12″ ][wr_heading el_title=”be a hero” tag=”h1″ text_align=”center” heading_margin_top=”5″ heading_margin_bottom=”10″ font=”inherit” enable_underline=”yes” border_bottom_style=”solid” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ]BE A HERO, HELP US HELP OTHERS BY DONATING[/wr_heading][wr_image #_EDITTED el_title=”paypal” image_file=”https://unitedwaylaredo.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/PayPal-Donate-Button-High-Quality-PNG.png” image_size=”medium” 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=”center” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ][/wr_image][/wr_column][/wr_row]
Casa De Misericordia-Rosy
Rosy’s past marriage lasted a year. Unfortunately, she was living in a constant state of terror. Rosy’s life constantly involved living with insults and violence. Five years ago, Rosy’s husband beat her inside a parked vehicle, and left her in the parking lot until midnight. Fortunately, things began to turn around in Rosy’s favor. The police arrived, and took her to the shelter. She resided at Casa de Misericordia for a month. “I’m alive! I am a survivor of domestic violence and I am blessed and happy!” professed Rosy. Although Rosy was in a secure place, she still lived in fear. She was terrified that her husband would find and kill her and her two daughters. While residing at Casa de Misericordia, legal aid visited Rosy. The legal team helped her establish a protective order. The protective order allowed Rosy to freely partake in the community. On July 7, 1998, Casa de Misericordia became active in the community of Laredo. Casa de Misericordia provides safeguarded and temporary residential services to victims of domestic violence. Casa de Misericordia is a sheltered place, where victims of domestic violence can feel protected and collect information on encouraging options for their future such as housing, education, and counseling. Casa de Misericordia also works to connect victims to proper agencies based on their needs. Five years ago, Sister Rosemary and her rescue team assisted Rosy in receiving counseling, legal assistance, and referrals to other agencies. She explained that she arrived without anything. The day she arrived she received clothes, a roof over head, and food. Most importantly, Rosy received a sense of security. United Way of Laredo provides Casa de Misericordia funding for client assistance and its overall program. This great partnership between United Way and Casa de Misericordia helps in many aspects to continue and provide assistance to victims of family violence. Rosy is eternally grateful for all the physical, emotional, moral, and legal support that the team has provided her with. Their words of encouragement built up her personal improvement and allowed her to participate at the education center and earn her degree. “The team at Casa de Misericordia has been an example for my life in the most critical moments,” confessed Rosy. The uplifting moments helped her to continue the program at Casa de Misericordia where she has taken several beauty classes and specializes as a skin massage therapist. Rosy is also a part of the advisory committee and is a music teacher at the education center. Presently, Rosy has earned a manager position for a company in Austin, Texas. “Rosy is an example of great courage,” the team at Casa De Misericordia explained. She gives back to the program and community. Rosy is also an advocate for other victims and people who are in similar situations. Now that Rosy feels valued and has restored herself physically and emotionally, she has the strong courage to share her story. Without the help of Casa de Misericordia, she believes she would have been stuck in the same abusive lifestyle that she was found in. [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″ ] [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″ ]
Boys and Girls Club of Laredo
“Great futures start here!” Mr. Jorge F. Gonzalez declared. As an astounding product of the Boys and Girls Club of Laredo, Mr. Gonzalez has an abundance to recognize. Mr. Gonzalez was first introduced to the Boys and Girls Club of Laredo as a child. He attended the club often, The Boys and Girls Club is where he learned to swim, play basketball, and develop life skills such as being self-disciplined. He explained that The Boys and Girls Club is what ultimately molded him into the person that he is today. Currently, Mr. Gonzalez is the President of Falcon Sure Insurance Agency, and serves on eleven boards that include Chairman for Laredo Medical Center and Communities in Schools. As a past president of United Way and The Boys and Girls Club, Gonzalez appreciates the significance of giving back to the community of Laredo and helping others when it is possible. “It shouldn’t be about me. It is really about the kids. The kids are our future.” Gonzalez proposed. “To touch one kid’s life is what is truly meaningful,” Mr. Gonzalez explained. Aside from the physical activities and education, The Boys and Girls Club allows the children to develop social skills and develop everlasting friendships with other club members. The Boys and Girls Club is filled with caring board members and other kind individuals whose fundamental goal is to impact the children’s lives. They accomplish this goal by providing a safe haven where the children can engage in physical activities, be taught life skills, and focus on their education. Apart from the regular amount of ten thousand members, The Boys and Girls Club serves about twenty thousand children through their special leagues of basketball, flag football, volleyball, and track meets. Every day, The Boys and Girls Club stresses the importance of health, education, and character development of the youth. The Boys and Girls Club can fill the need in the community for responsible guidance from adult role models. Most importantly, United Way helps the Boys and Girls Club provide these children with hope and an endless amount of opportunities. “Honestly, I don’t know, I don’t know what would have happened to me.” As a prosperous product of The Boys and Girls Club, Gonzalez credits his second nature of giving to The Boys and Girls Club. Mr. Gonzalez strongly believes that The Boys and Girls Club shapes people with compassionate hearts and great futures; that is why your donation to United Way is so important. United Way of Laredo helps us in our mission of impacting children’s lives! [wr_row width=”boxed” background=”none” solid_color_value=”#FFFFFF” solid_color_color=”#ffffff” gradient_color=”0% #FFFFFF,100% #000000″ gradient_direction=”vertical” repeat=”full” img_repeat=”full” autoplay=”yes” position=”center center” paralax=”no” border_width_value_=”0″ border_style=”solid” border_color=”#000″ div_padding_top=”10″ div_padding_bottom=”10″ div_padding_right=”10″ div_padding_left=”10″ ][wr_column span=”span12″ ][wr_heading el_title=”be a hero” tag=”h1″ text_align=”center” heading_margin_top=”5″ heading_margin_bottom=”10″ font=”inherit” enable_underline=”yes” border_bottom_style=”solid” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ]BE A HERO, HELP US HELP OTHERS BY DONATING[/wr_heading][wr_image #_EDITTED el_title=”paypal” image_file=”https://unitedwaylaredo.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/PayPal-Donate-Button-High-Quality-PNG.png” image_size=”medium” 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=”center” appearing_animation=”0″ disabled_el=”no” ][/wr_image][/wr_column][/wr_row]
