Boy Scouts—South Texas Council
In Scouting, Mrs. Veronica Caballero has immeasurable memories and experiences. She has been the Den leader for Cub Scouts. She is also a prestigious member of the Troop Committee for Boy Scouts and has completed a Bachelor of Commission Science, and an Adult Leader Training of Wood Badge. Mrs. Caballero has been a member of the training staff and completed Trainer’s Edge. Currently, Mrs. Caballero is a Unit Commissioner with the Cub Scout Pack at Sacred Heart Children’s Home, also known as Pack 2017. Scouting is adventure, excitement, character, leadership and so much more. “There is so much room for growth,” explained Mrs. Caballero. She has personally seen this growth with her Cub Scouts, and her two sons. Her sons have learned and experienced an abundance through Boy Scouts. They have learned about financial management, experienced astronomy in Colorado, drove ATVs, and have been scuba diving. Additionally, they have learned how to finance their trips through fundraising with Boy Scouts. Most importantly, Mrs. Caballero explained that her sons are learning about servant leadership. Through these exceptional tasks, they are preparing for life by acquiring the necessary skills. They are growing into positive role models and contributing members of their community. Her sons also assist as Boy Scout leaders in the position of Den Chief’s for the younger Cub Scouts. They are dedicated to the cause every Monday and meet with the Cub Scouts. They help the kids gain advancement and build confidence. Some of the activities they have worked on are belt loops and building a robotic arm from cardboard and straws. In Scouting, children begin with their best right now selves and grow into their very best future selves. The current motto for Cub Scouts is “Do your best.” Later, as the young Cub Scouts transition into Boy Scouts their motto changes to “Be prepared” as in be ready for the curve balls that life is going to throw at you, explained Mrs. Caballero. The goal is to teach the troops how to work as an individual and as a team to overcome obstacles. One of the main goals the scouts has is servant leadership. They impressively accomplish this by focusing on community outreach by giving back to the community. Troop 615 has adopted the highway on Bob Bullock Loop 20 beginning at Walmart and ending at Arkansas. They have also participated with H-E-B’s Feast of Sharing, have been the color guard for Autism Awareness functions, and have said the Pledge of Allegiance at the Naturalization Ceremonies at the Court House. Mrs. Caballero’s current goal as Unit Commissioner is to begin a third Unit for special needs children. Currently, she has two units Pact 2017 and Troop 402. She hopes to begin her third Unit very soon. In order to begin her third Unit, she will need a minimum of five registered children, but her goal is to have at least eight children signed up. She is a strong advocate for all children having a chance to experience being a Cub Scout and a Boy Scout. The work of United Way of Laredo does not go unnoticed by the Boy Scouts—South Texas Council. “United Way is always generous to remember us,” explained Mrs. Caballero. Their assistance ensures that we have the Boys Scout program in our community. They also help us to maintain the beautiful Camp Huisache, which is available to the youth in our 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/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]
Serving Children and Adults in Need INC.
Serving Children and Adults in Need (SCAN) was publicly shaped in 1982 as Stop Child Abuse and Neglect in Laredo, Texas. Presently, SCAN is a community-based, nonprofit social services organization. The organization provides an assortment of comprehensive services to Cameron, Dimmit, Duval, Frio, Hidalgo, Jim Hogg, Kleberg, LaSalle, Maverick, Real, Starr, Uvalde, Val Verde, Webb, Zapata and Zavala Counties. SCAN has over thirty programs that provide diverse prevention, intervention, and treatment services for children, adolescents, adults, and families SCAN is known by individuals and families as a place where they can find the means to cultivate their full potential, and where they feel their language and culture are respected. SCAN’s programs and treatment services are provided by respectably trained and considerate staff members. The staff members help promote the healthy development of individuals by granting empowering opportunities throughout the community. The caring staff members support their clients by encouraging long term recovery and resilience, such as the case of their client Crystal. Crystal was referred to SCAN Emergency Youth Shelter when her parents could no longer support her. At the time of event, one of her parents was being assisted at the SCAN substance abuse treatment facility. Crystal was able to stay in the youth shelter at SCAN for about ninety days. After the ninety days she was granted ended, Crystal was moved to a foster home in Brownsville, Texas. Crystal successfully obtained a job. When she turned eighteen she earned her General Equivalency Diploma and her driver’s license. At the age of eighteen, she exited the child welfare system and became homeless. After contacting SCAN, she instantaneously admitted to the transitional living program. The transitional living program is a program used to help the youth transition to adulthood successfully. Currently, Crystal is continuing her higher education while following a healthy developmental path. She is on her way to successfully transitioning into independent living. United Way of Laredo generously assists SCAN’s vision in providing services to the community. The funds United Way provides go to supporting SCAN programs and buying school uniforms and school supplies for the youth. [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]
South Texas Food Bank
The South Texas Food Bank has been present in the community of Laredo for about thirty years. The organization has aimed to be a link between those who are suffering from hunger, and those who want to help a well-organized outlet with assurance that their donation will reach those who need it the most The beginning of the Food Bank was in 1989. It was made aware that the state and federal governments were not providing all of the necessary help needed in the Laredo. Millions of pounds of edible foods that be used to feed the hungry, were being thrown into the landfill every year. In December 1989, the establishment of the Laredo Webb County Food Bank first opened with one mission in mind: to help end hunger here at home. The food bank currently serves eight counties in the south Texas region: Webb, Zapata, Jim Hogg, Val Verde, Starr, Maverick, Dimmit and Kinney. The South Texas Food Bank is a certified member of Feeding Texas, Feeding America’s Food Bank Network, and the United Way of Laredo. These programs help by allowing the organization to have a better ability to acquire food, funds, and resources. The South Texas Food Bank has a variety of programs that target the needs of the different individuals. The programs include, Adopt-A-Family, Commodity Supplemental Food Program, Kids Cafe, BackPack Program, SNAP Ed Program (Food Stamps, Medicaid, and TANF), TEFAP (The Emergency Food Assistance Program), and Food Banking (Food Pantries). The programs are valuable to many people throughout the community such as Brianna and her family. Brianna and her younger siblings has been happily attending the Larga Vista Kids Café for over three years. Her mother finds the Kids Café as a blessing for her family. Besides the daily hot homemade meals that are provided to her children by the Larga Vista staff and volunteers, she is grateful to have a safe and enriching place for her children to go to after school. The staff at Larga Vista enjoy having Briana’s company. “Brianna has very outgoing and friendly personality. You can tell that she enjoys coming to the café,” stated Ernie Hill, Kids Program Coordinator for the South Texas Food Bank. “She is the type of kid that goes over and thank the staff and volunteers for cooking the food.” Hill also pointed out that for two years Brianna has been asked to paint a bowl that represents the Kids Café for the food bank’s annual Empty Bowl fundraiser. “One of the bowls that comes to mind is a bowl where she drew herself and her friends sitting at a table and eating. In the background, she drew a couple of the staff members and wrote their names next to them. To me, that simple gesture showed her level of appreciation and gratitude. She does not take the Kids Café for granted,” Hill concluded. [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]
Serving Children and Adults in Need INC.
Serving Children and Adults in Need (SCAN) is a non-profit, community-based organization created in 1982. SCAN provides services to a wide array 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 it main office in Laredo, Webb County, where it has also most of its residential programs including an emergency youth shelter, a transitional living program, and four residential substance use treatment programs. SCAN also serves several other counties along the Texas Mexico border where it has a total of 10 satellite offices. 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. For example, Crystal was a youth in need whose life has been positively impacted by SCAN’s services. Crystal was referred to SCAN Emergency Youth Shelter when her parents could no longer care for her and support her. At the time of her placement at the Shelter, one of her parents was being assisted at one of SCAN’s substance use treatment facilities. Crystal was able to stay in SCAN’s youth shelter for about ninety days. After her ninety-day stay, Crystal was moved to a foster home in the Rio Grande Valley. She was successful in obtaining a job. When she turned eighteen, she earned her General Equivalency Diploma and her driver’s license. At this time, she had to exit the child welfare system because she became and adult; unfortunately, she became homeless. After contacting SCAN, she was immediately admitted to the Arco Iris Program, SCAN’s transitional living program for homeless adolescents. The Arco Iris provides food and shelter and a wide array of counseling and skill-building services to help youth make a successful transition to adulthood. In this program, Crystal can live for up to a year and a half. Currently, Crystal is continuing her higher education while following a healthy developmental path. She is on her way to successfully transitioning into independent living. SCAN is extremely proud of receiving support from the United Way of Laredo and this support is vital for helping individuals like Crystal. United Way generously assists SCAN’s vision in providing services to the community. The funds United Way provides go to supporting the SCAN emergency youth programs. At times, this might be buying school uniforms and school supplies to help students. [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]
Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center
The Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center began as a local nonprofit organization founded in 1959 by Mrs. Cowl. Her vision included creating an establishment that provided a program of physical and emotional restitution for individuals suffering from polio. Today, Mrs. Cowl’s vision has been incorporated to make it possible to assist individuals with birth defects, strokes, brain injuries, amputations, emotional problems, and other physical conditions that have hindered their quality of life. The rehabilitation center diligently works to assist all individuals with disabilities regardless of their age, origin, nationality, creed, or economic status. United Way of Laredo graciously assists Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center with its annual operation budget. United Way’s contribution helps the rehabilitation center provide physical therapy, occupation therapy, speech therapy, pain management, wound care, and counseling and social services. Together, United Way and the rehabilitation center support at least thirty different types of injuries, disabilities, and disorders. Patient Jesus Javier Martinez is sixty years old and has shared his life with his loving wife of seventeen years, Irma Herrera Martinez. He is also the proud father of Samantha, Jesse, Justin, and Alexis. Beginning at the age of fifteen, Mr. Martinez led a working and active life style. Unfortunately, on September 16, 2017 he suffered a serious stroke. He remembers vividly that it was on a Sunday while he was on his way to work as a truck driver. He knew that day his life would never be the same. Mr. Martinez was rushed to the hospital and spent the next two weeks in the Intensive Care Unit. After being released from the hospital, Mr. Martinez was transferred to an inpatient rehab center for a one week stay. October 2017, Mr. Martinez began his out-patient therapy at Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center where the supportive and compassionate physical therapy and occupational therapy staff consisting of Fernando, Alex, Victor, and Roxy have been working with him. “The therapy offered at Ruthe B. Cowl is extraordinary, and all the employees are exceptional as is the organization,” explained Mr. Martinez. Mr. Martinez’s physical mobility has improved immensely through the therapy provided. “As my personal testimony, Ruthe B. Cowl has helped me, and so many others with both my physical and emotional well-being,” explained Mr. Martinez. Suffering a stroke significantly impacted all aspects of his life, but the therapy has empowered him to revive his daily life. “Strokes can affect anyone, at any time, and at any age. I still continuously need skillful therapy and look forward to receiving it from the folks at Ruthe B. Cowl Rehabilitation Center,” explained Mr. Martinez [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 HSDA HIV/AIDS Services Consortia
Laredo HSDA HIV/AIDS Services Consortia was established in the early 1990s. The Consortia is the only current nonprofit agency in Laredo that focuses exclusively on assistance and support for HIV/AIDS. The Consortia provides assistance to individuals who were diagnosed with HIV/AIDS. Additionally, it provides various programs that enhance the quality of life. The program also provides education to the community about early detection, prevention, and treatment. After the diagnosis of HIV is confirmed people can be referred to the Consortia. The team at the Consortia works tirelessly to assist the individuals with money for food, utilities, rent, medication, and transportation to medical professionals. John was in a relationship for two years with a woman who had recently separated from her husband. The woman explained to him that she could not get pregnant due to having a sterilization surgery. John did not consider the possibility of getting a sexually transmitted disease after having unprotected sex. After randomly seeing an informational commercial about HIV on television, John decided to get tested. He was diagnosed with HIV in December 1996. After receiving his diagnosis, John’s family was very supportive and understanding of the situation. In the recent years, he lost both parents to cancer. John does everything in his power to stay healthy because of his diagnosis and family medical history. His current issue is having low “defenses” due to a low blood cell count. His current doctor is going to switch the medications in order to stabilize John’s count. Presently, John is employed, but sometimes the amount of money he makes does not cover all the medical needs he may have. The organization assists John with medical needs and cards to purchase groceries. United Way of Laredo is the main benefactor for Laredo HSDA HIV/AIDS Services Consortia. The funds from United way provide assistance with blood work, medication, food, doctor appointments, nutritional supplements, and any other necessities that may be needed due to the patients’ diagnosis. “I am eternally grateful that United Way assists the consortia because the funds help all of us with this diagnosis,” explained John. [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]
Communities in Schools
Present in the Laredo community for over eight years, Communities in Schools assists students with school tutoring, basic needs, scholarships for college, college readiness, and career exploration. Students and their families who are struggling and have a difficult time accessing public and private services benefit from Communities in Schools. There are many resources in the community, but sometimes there is no one who can help make the connection between the person and the resources. Through a school-based coordinator, students are helped with this issue. The coordinator helps students remove barriers, and brings community resources into the school to empower success for all students. The program helps students who are at risk of dropping out due to academics, attendance, social service needs, and behavioral issues. Communities in Schools keeps students on the path to graduation. Luis Cerda has been a member of Communities in Schools for over three years at Raymond and Tirza Martin High School. Despite the obstacles he faces at home, Luis’s school based coordinator, Stephanie Diaz, has personally seen him grow as a student and individual. Luis contacted Mrs. Diaz because his is family is financially unstable. Luis’s parents are unable to work because his mother is on disability, and his father has a heart condition. Although his family receives government assistance, it is not enough for a family of six. Through the program, Mrs. Diaz has been able to provide Luis with school supplies, clothes, food, and someone to confide in. The program has helped alleviate many of the stressors that can prevent Luis from thriving in school. Luis has prospered at Martin High School. Currently, Luis participates in countless extracurricular activities such as football, golf, powerlifting, chess, and UIL. Once in a while, Luis needs extra support for his academics, and he knows he can easily ask Mrs. Diaz for assistance. Now, Luis has broken out of his shell, is more outgoing, and enjoys helping out at his school and home. Luis explained that the program has made him more aware about the importance of helping others and he truly enjoys it. Communities in Schools has also allowed Luis the grand opportunity to attend the prestigious Texas Boys State program. “He really is a good kid. He always does his best to be involved in many activities. I was excited for him to go. Texas Boys State will help him excel for his senior year,” explained Mrs. Diaz. Luis is already preparing for life during his senior year and for after his graduation. United Way of Laredo financially helps support Communities in School, so the program can continue making a difference in the daily lives of students. The funds go directly to student resources. “I am happier being in Communities in Schools. I don’t have to worry anymore,” explained Luis. Luis’s parents are also thankful for all the support Communities in Schools have provided them with. [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]
Literacy Volunteers
In 1986, Literacy Volunteers of Laredo was established to encourage literacy throughout the Laredo community. The program is operated diligently by a staff who recruit, train, and match volunteer tutors with non-reading adults. For those who are not natural English speakers, the match between the tutor and tutee is based on the individualized needs the tutee will need with basic reading and English as a second language. The classes are delivered by excellent volunteers who donate at least three hours of their time on a weekly basis. The goal of the Literacy Volunteers is to provide confidential, student-center instruction, and assistance. The program is free of charge to adults with limited English communication skills. Currently, the program delivers its mission at eight different places spread through out the Laredo community. The places include: Laredo Public Library, Hillside Recreation Center, MOS Library, Fasken Senior Center, Laredo Manor Apartment, Bruni Plaza, Santa Teresita Community Center, and E. Hachar Recreation Center. Xochitl Sol Valdez is a successful product and advocate for the Literacy Volunteers of Laredo. Mrs. Valdez was born in Coahuila, Mexico and moved to Laredo in 2010. In order to effectively assimilate into the Laredo community, Mrs. Valdez desired to build English communication skills. She explained that her first sign of progress began when she joined the team at Literacy Volunteers in 2016. Through the program, she faced the dynamic challenge of learning how to read, write, and speak in English. Mrs. Valdez explained that she was provided with free tutoring courses and materials that included exams, tutorials, and homework that all contributed to her growth in learning English. Her social and workforce atmosphere improved tremendously. The personal goals Mrs. Valdez currently has include feeling more confident on a daily basis. This includes being able to fluently speak English with her clients and coworkers. She also has high hopes to one day work as an announcer or hostess with television, production or the radio stations. “Our development would not be possible without Mrs. Gloria Vazquez and Ms. Ana Olvera,” explained Mrs. Valdez. Mrs. Vazquez and Ms. Olvera serve as Mrs. Valdez’s mentors to keep on improving English. She thanks them for their valuable time and effort. Additionally, Mrs. Valdez would like to thank to all the sponsors including United Way of Laredo, who contribute and support her effort in learning the English Language. The funds provided by United Way in collaboration with other sponsors go towards delivering reading materials, writing tools, and picture dictionaries to the tutees. Mrs. Valdez feels lucky to be able to share the progress she has made in learning English in the City of Laredo. The Literacy Volunteers program has brought her great joy and many opportunities including security to prepare job applications to enter the work force. “Thanks to the volunteers of Laredo Literacy program, I excelled in my work and I am a professional capable of facing life. I take great pride in being able to speak two languages,” explained Mrs. Valdez. [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]
Girl Scouts of Greater South Texas
Present in the Laredo community for over eight years, Communities in Schools assists students with school tutoring, basic needs, scholarships for college, college readiness, and career exploration. Students and their families who are struggling and have a difficult time accessing public and private services benefit from Communities in Schools. There are many resources in the community, but sometimes there is no one who can help make the connection between the person and the resources. Through a school-based coordinator, students are helped with this issue. The coordinator helps students remove barriers, and brings community resources into the school to empower success for all students. The program helps students who are at risk of dropping out due to academics, attendance, social service needs, and behavioral issues. Communities in Schools keeps students on the path to graduation. Luis Cerda has been a member of Communities in Schools for over three years at Raymond and Tirza Martin High School. Despite the obstacles he faces at home, Luis’s school based coordinator, Stephanie Diaz, has personally seen him grow as a student and individual. Luis contacted Mrs. Diaz because his is family is financially unstable. Luis’s parents are unable to work because his mother is on disability, and his father has a heart condition. Although his family receives government assistance, it is not enough for a family of six. Through the program, Mrs. Diaz has been able to provide Luis with school supplies, clothes, food, and someone to confide in. The program has helped alleviate many of the stressors that can prevent Luis from thriving in school. Luis has prospered at Martin High School. Currently, Luis participates in countless extracurricular activities such as football, golf, powerlifting, chess, and UIL. Once in a while, Luis needs extra support for his academics, and he knows he can easily ask Mrs. Diaz for assistance. Now, Luis has broken out of his shell, is more outgoing, and enjoys helping out at his school and home. Luis explained that the program has made him more aware about the importance of helping others and he truly enjoys it. Communities in Schools has also allowed Luis the grand opportunity to attend the prestigious Texas Boys State program. “He really is a good kid. He always does his best to be involved in many activities. I was excited for him to go. Texas Boys State will help him excel for his senior year,” explained Mrs. Diaz. Luis is already preparing for life during his senior year and for after his graduation. United Way of Laredo financially helps support Communities in School, so the program can continue making a difference in the daily lives of students. The funds go directly to student resources. “I am happier being in Communities in Schools. I don’t have to worry anymore,” explained Luis. Luis’s parents are also thankful for all the support Communities in Schools have provided them with. [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]
Boys and Girls Club of Zapata
For over two years, Noelia Olmeda has been a reliant and excellent volunteer for the Boys and Girls Club of Zapata. Currently, Noelia is a junior at Zapata High School, and takes great pride in her love for art. While balancing high school and her time for art, Noelia also volunteers at the Boys and Girls Club on a daily basis. At the Boys and Girls Club, she serves as a devoted and enthusiastic mentor for the younger children. She is always ready to support them. Noelia has participated and volunteered at many events with the club such as the Easter egg hunt, golf tournament, and annual skeet shooting competition. Noelia also participates and displays her beautiful art work in the club’s art gallery. It truly brings Noelia joy to assist the members of the Boy and Girls Club of Zapata with anything they may need. The Boys and Girls Club was established in Zapata in 1996. Annually, the club serves over 400 children of all ages. The Boys and Girls club operates in the community of Zapata as a safe and interactive environment for children. Through the club, the children can explore innovative programs that will help them excel in school and lead productive lives. The children can attend the club after school and during the long hot summers. The Boys and Girls Club provides the youth of the community the opportunity to focus on sports and recreation, education, the arts, health and wellness, and character and leadership. While being active in all the programs the club provides, the children are focusing on great character building. The Boys and Girls Club annually hosts their Clay for Kids tournament. All the proceeds acquired through their fundraiser goes towards the youth and the club. Aside from their annual tournament, United Way partially funds the programs that the Boys and Girls Club delivers. One of the greatly appreciated programs that the Boys and Girls Club of Zapata serves is the backpack program. Through this program the club serves the community of Zapata, especially its youth with backpacks full of food. The program greatly helps the community especially during the summer time. [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]
