Gateway Community Health Center, Inc.
After young Frankie had a nerve wrecking encounter at a local dentist office, Frankie and his dad were recommended to Gateway Community Health Center, Inc. Nine years ago, Frankie immediately became comfortable, and adored going to his new dental office because the clinic’s staff eased his worries by welcoming him into a warming environment. He joyfully explained that he was treated great at his new dentist office. Not only did Frankie enjoy his new dentist office, but so did his three other siblings. “I like it there because it is kind of like home,” explained Harmony. “We are all very comfortable with the dentists, they always talk to us,” she continued. Harmony continued to describe that the dentist examines their teeth. The clinic’s staff also taught her and her siblings how to brush and take care of their teeth. The dental clinic first opened at Gateway in 1963. By 1989, the office accomplished a status as a Federally Qualified Health Center. Each month the Dental Clinic determinedly serves over a thousand patients. The number of patients being served has been growing continuously. The amenities provided to the Gateway patients are given in the finest quality the center can offer. On a daily basis, the center tirelessly lives up to its mission statement “To provide quality healthcare for everyone.” The vision of Gateway Community Health Center is to be a “leader in providing access to comprehensive primary healthcare through clinical excellence, superior customer service, and a valued workforce.” They strive to accomplish this by honoring their core values that include service excellence, professional expertise, integrity, dignity, and compassion. For over fifteen years, United Way of Laredo has played a key role in providing dental service assistance to the clinic’s patients. The funds are used to purchase items that are used as preventive and restorative measures such as dental fillings. Additionally, the funds are also used towards purchasing sealants to put over permanent molars in order to prevent dental decay. United Way helps Gateway Community Clinic fulfill their motto of providing quality care 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]
Sacred Heart Children’s Home
Sacred Heart Children’s Home has been in the community of Laredo for over one hundred years. It was established in 1907, and tirelessly continues to serve those in need. At the young and innocent age of eight years old, Karen Lopez was introduced into the loving atmosphere at Sacred Heart Children’s Home. Karen was growing up with a single mother. Her mother worked extremely long hours in order to get by. After she heard how the Sacred Heart was a wholesome place for children, Karen’s mom signed her up. Karen explained how the Sisters from the Sacred Heart Children’s Home practically raised her. She is eternally grateful for all the sleepless nights they spent taking care of her. “It is because of Sacred Heart that I was able to have a memorable childhood,” explained Karen. She described how she was constantly surrounded by love and attention. The Sisters opened up their heart and arms to her. The Sisters taught Karen her morals and values that reflect the genuine person she is today. They took the precious time to teach Karen how to be a generous person that cares for and helps other people in need. Today, Karen is happily married and is a wonderful mother to her eight-year-old child. She and her husband are also expecting their second child. Karen currently works for Texas A&M International University as an outreach specialist. She explained that she is doing what she learned best as Sacred Heart, that is giving back and helping the community. “Thank you, United Way, for your tremendous generosity in making organizations like Sacred Heart Children’s Home possible,” expressed Karen. United Way of Laredo is a major provider for the Sacred Heart Children’s Home, and their assistance does not go unnoticed. “Sacred Heart Children’s Home has been a true blessing for me as it has been for many other kids,” explained Karen. She hopes Sacred Heart Children’s Home can continue being there for children for many more years to come. [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]
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 Ccout 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 helps with maintaining Camp Huisache’s daily maintenance, landscaping, and electricity.
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]
