60 YEARS of serving our community! Congratulations to the Spanish American Center!
I attended the Spanish American Center's 60th Anniversary Fundraising Gala at the DoubleTree in Leominster, celebrating six decades of supporting families, preserving Latino culture, and providing essential services throughout North Central Massachusetts.
Founded in 1966, the Spanish American Center has grown into a trusted resource for thousands of families in Fitchburg, Leominster, and our surrounding communities. From food assistance and youth programs to elder services, domestic violence support, and helping families navigate resources, their work has helped generations of residents build better lives.
The evening was filled with Latino music, dancing, poetry, and cultural performances, including guitarist Gilberto Rivera, traditional bomba y plena performances by Irene Hernández and Grupo Fa'Unida, and a presentation looking back at the Center's history and the people who helped build it.
One of the highlights was recognizing the individuals who have dedicated so much of their lives to this organization, including Silvia Taurino, who received the Heart of the Center Award for her incredible 36 years of service! Congratulations also to fellow honorees Steve Adams, Cheryl Boissy, Peter Bovenzi, and Ana Delia "Yuyu" Torres.
Attendees heard about the Center's history and its connection to Fitchburg's late civil rights activist Adrian Ford, who shared a lifelong commitment to community service with longtime Executive Director Neddy Latimer.
The sold-out celebration brought together more than 300 supporters and raised over $53,000 that evening toward the Center's $60,000 anniversary fundraising goal! These contributions will help expand programs, support families facing food insecurity, and invest in the Center's future.
I also appreciated the opportunity to connect with Worcester County District Attorney Joseph Early, who surprised the organization with a $3,000 contribution, and discuss some of the challenges facing our region, including homelessness and addiction...
Thank you to Executive Director Neddy Latimer, the Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, and everyone who has contributed to the Spanish American Center's success over these past six decades. Your commitment to welcoming and supporting our neighbors has made a lasting difference throughout our region.
Congratulations on 60 years, and here's to many more! ¡Felicitaciones y gracias por todo lo que hacen por nuestra comunidad!
