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A resolution recognizing the 20th anniversary of Conexión Américas.
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WHEREAS, in 2002, Conexión Américas’ three co-founders came together to address a growing need in our community - welcoming Latino immigrant families as they immigrated to Middle Tennessee; and
WHEREAS, what started out as a small organization of three is now a Nashville institution, continuing to build a welcoming community, and create opportunities where Latino families can belong, contribute, and succeed; and
WHEREAS, between 1990 and 2000, the United States Census showed a 446% growth in the Hispanic population in Nashville. During this time, public agencies and nonprofit organizations were dramatically challenged by this wave of newcomers; and
WHEREAS, the founders of Conexión Américas, María Clara Mejía, José González, and Renata Soto, professionals in nonprofit, business and social development, understood that void and its challenges; and
WHEREAS, in 2002, the co-founders teamed up with an existing small nonprofit group, the Hispanic Family Resource Center (HFRC), that was exclusively dedicated to providing information and referral services on health-related matters. The merger, which broadened services, allowed for the implementation of a holistic approach to help Latino families; and
WHEREAS, eventually, the original information and referral service of the HFRC evolved into the Spanish Help Line for Middle Tennessee. Conexión Américas’ programs now serve over 9,000 families and individuals each year; and
WHEREAS, Conexión Américas focuses on the social, economic, and civic integration of Latino families through various programs such as Escalera and Parents as Partners, and educational services spanning topics including taxes, homeownership, entrepreneurship, grassroots leadership development, and community outreach and education; and
WHEREAS, Casa Azafrán, the nonprofit collaborative community center located on Nolensville Pike, is home to Conexión Américas along with nine other nonprofit partners; and
WHEREAS, today, Conexión Américas is recognized as a leading Hispanic force in the region, state, and nation; and
WHEREAS, in recognition of Conexión Américas’ 20th anniversary, Casa Azafrán will unveil “We All Belong,” which is an art mural painted by members of the community and local artist Rubén Torres; and
WHEREAS, “Casa” means home in Spanish, and Conexión Américas’ mission is to build a welcoming community where Latino families can belong, contribute and succeed; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting and proper that the Metropolitan Council recognize Conexión Américas on its 20th anniversary for its tremendous contribution to Nashville and Davidson County.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE METROPOLITAN GOVERNMENT OF NASHVILLE AND DAVIDSON COUNTY:
Section 1. That the Metropolitan Council hereby goes on record as recognizing the 20th anniversary of Conexión Américas.
Section 2. That this Resolution shall take effect from and after its adoption, the welfare of The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County requiring it.