Third Iowa Latino Gala and Fundraiser in Benefit of the Hola Center of Iowa
The Hola Center of Iowa has recently celebrated its third anniversary, and we're overjoyed to share that we are making great strides in achieving our goal of becoming Iowa's key resource hub for Latino communities and other underserved Iowans. Our mission is to serve as a bridge, a beacon of hope, connecting Iowans with the resources and opportunities they need to thrive while working to remove barriers and address systemic gaps. We're here to make a difference and be optimistic about the future.
Personalized Care at the Hola Center of Iowa
At the Hola Center of Iowa, we understand that each person's journey is unique. We provide personalized care that goes beyond just meeting needs and building relationships. One of our clients shared how they felt lost and didn't know where to seek support in their native language for their children's educational needs. Daniela, a Services Coordinator at the Hola Center of Iowa, took the time to listen to all their concerns and provided them with incredibly helpful resources. She even connected the client with the right person at Des Moines Public Schools, with the client truly grateful for their support. This is the kind of care we strive to provide to every client.
Since our inception as an initiative of the Iowa Office of Latino Affairs, the Hola Center of Iowa has evolved into a resource hub for Spanish speakers and other community members. We've become a lifeline, offering reliable information, resources, advocacy, interpretation and translation services and support for nonprofit agencies. Without the Hola Center of Iowa, members of Iowa's largest ethnic group — Latinos — would be without access to crucial information and resources. Our impact is significant, and we're proud to be a vital part of this community.
Hola Center of Iowa Services
We provide information on where services can be obtained and reach out to the entities, we refer clients to, ensuring they can provide linguistically and culturally appropriate services. We assist Iowans in applying for local and state government services, ensuring clients clearly understand what is asked of them and what they are signing up for. In addition to one-on-one services, the Hola Center of Iowa collaborates with community entities to provide educational classes for the community.
To continue providing these much-needed and unique services, we rely on the funds raised during our Annual Iowa Latino Gala — our most significant fundraising event — and other events such as Loteria nights. All funds raised cover the Hola Center of Iowa's expenses, including our Services Coordinator's salary.
You are an integral part of our mission as Iowans, businesses, advocates and entities. Your support is not just financial — it's a vote of confidence in our work and a commitment to the communities we serve. By becoming a sponsor, purchasing a table at our Iowa Latino Gala & Fundraiser or donating, you are making a tangible difference in the lives of many. Your support enables us to continue our vital work, serving the Latino community and other underserved Iowans.
According to the State of Iowa Latinos in Iowa Report, the percentage of Latinos under age five as of July 1, 2022, is 8.2%, making Latinos one of the highest concentrations of preschoolers among other races or ethnic groups in Iowa. Supporting the Hola Center of Iowa is an investment in the future of this great state, as our children are our present and our future. We invite you to join the Hola Center of Iowa family of funders, sponsors and supporters.
Join us for the Third Annual Iowa Latino Gala — a night of celebration, music and culture at The Loft DSM on Friday, Sept. 13, 2024. Enjoy delicious Latino food from multiple countries, lively entertainment and connections with Latino community members. Let's unite to honor and uplift Latino heritage and create unforgettable memories. Don't miss out on this special event!
Event Links
From Pride to Juneteenth to the Latino Heritage Festival, big, inclusive events are par for the course in Greater Des Moines (DSM). But there are smaller events celebrating diversity here, too. Attend one of the Greater Des Moines Partnership’s Multicultural Receptions, an event celebrating veterans or a sensory-friendly event in the region. Learn more here.
Shalome Musigñac Jordán
The Hola Center of Iowa is central Iowa’s welcoming and resource hub for Latinos. We provide culturally and linguistically appropriate services, meeting people where they are. Our vision is Thriving Latino Communities in Iowa. Shalome Musigñac Jordán (She, Her, Ella) is the Board Chair for the Hola Center of Iowa.