Pioneering educator George I. Sánchez led the way in advocacy for Hispanic students. His trailblazing work created equity, pride, and improved the quality of life for Latino youth.
Continuing Sánchez’s goal of turning empathy into activism, HOPE-Esperanza leads the effort to enlighten, empower, and literally heal Latino communities.
This nonprofit initiative, founded in 2021 by Executive Director TinaMaria Fernández, serves Lincoln County, Nebraska’s large Latino community, addressing issues marginalized groups face with access to with essential services.
As a registered nurse, TinaMaria knows all too well the plight of individuals who lack adequate health care, mental wellness, and struggle with food insecurity. HOPE-Esperanza springs into action, not only for the Latino populace… true need is oblivious to language, culture, or race.
HOPE-Esperanza helps build self-sustaining families through several innovative ways:
The Food Box Program provides weekly food distribution to families that face language difficulties… communication in a familiar tongue reduces stigma. Dignity is raised, and barriers are lowered. Their Community Share Box offers 24/7 access to non-perishable food items in various locations in North Platte, within walking distance. This removes transportation obstacles, while fostering a vibe of sharing.
ESL implementation in the public-school districts, and free tutoring workshops level the educational playing field. HOPE-Esperanza firmly believes English proficiency creates more options for success, while in no way making participants feel they should deny their heritage.
HOPE-Esperanza organizes multicultural festivals that celebrate diversity within the community, but most importantly, allow groups to learn about their neighbor’s heritage. Through exposure to traditional foods, arts and crafts, and focus on important historical figures, young people are motivated to love themselves… and love and respect others.
HOPE-Esperanza holds a Community Health Fair, where families register to receive vaccinations, partake in physicals, access free gym equipment to engage in exercise, and participate in monthly mental wellness sessions. Their Employment Services program helps underserved communities explore career opportunities, with job training, resume assistance, interview prep, and a space open to the public with free WIFI and laptops for use… the digital divide is narrowed by HOPE-Esperanza.
And in a climate where the immigrant community feels unfairly targeted and literally afraid for their lives, HOPE-Esperanza offers advice in navigating the system, knowing one’s rights, and encouragement to believe they too can be part of the American Dream.
