Latino Community Center

Did you know March is Read Across America month? ??? The amazing students of SOY McKeesport are crushing their March reading challenges! ???? With books in both English and Spanish, our students are flexing their multilingual muscles ???? and diving into incredible stories. ?? So far, they’ve read a total of 85 books—wow! ???? We can’t wait to see how many more books they’ll finish by the end of the month! ??

???? The team is still preparing for something amazing! ? What is it about? We can't say much yet, but we promise it will be an experience you won’t want to miss. Keep your running shoes ready and get prepared for the action. ??♀? ?? Stay tuned! Next week we’ll reveal all the details.

Our Nuestro Futuro (Youth Development) coordinator, Carolina, had the incredible opportunity to attend the American Association for Hispanics in Higher Education (AAHHE) Conference 2025! Themed "Reconciling Our Past, Challenging the Present, Shaping Equitable Futures: Advancing the Next 20 Years of Latinx/a/o Communities," Carolina gained valuable insights on how to support our youth and guide them through career exploration during these times. ??? We’re so proud of Carolina for bringing back knowledge and inspiration to help shape brighter futures for our community! ??#AAHHE25

Between Friday and Saturday of last week, our wonderful volunteers and Community health workers helped us assemble shelves, rocking chairs, a changing table, and hang various decorative toys. Thanks to their help, the kids' room now has a fresh, colorful, and joyful new look! ??? We deeply appreciate their time, dedication, and the love they put into every project. ?? - Entre el viernes y sábado de la semana pasada, nuestros maravillosos voluntarios junto con el equipo de promotoras de Salud nos ayudaron armar estanterías, mecedoras, un cambiador y colgar diferentes juguetes decorativos. ?Gracias a su ayuda, el cuarto de los ni?os ahora tiene una nueva imagen llena de color y alegría! ??? Agradecemos profundamente su tiempo, dedicación y el amor que ponen en cada proyecto. ??

Our Director of programs, Mónica Méndez, was a panelist at the 3rd Annual Women in Business Event, hosted by?Brentwood Bank. Additionally, we are thrilled to announce that Brentwood Bank has donated to the Center in recognition of our work! ???? Thank you for your support and for promoting female leadership in the community. We continue moving forward with more projects and commitment! ????

Last week, our team had its monthly meeting, and this time we had the privilege of Clinical Social Worker Michelle Altman, LCSW?joining us. The conversation focused on how to address the needs and concerns of families in the current immigration context. ?? ? How do we talk to families when they come to us with fears and worries? ????, How can we support children in the face of the increasing bullying targeting younger kids? ?? These are crucial topics, and as a team, we always strive to stay informed and prepared so that we can be a true support for our community. ????

?? Watch our Middle School students from SOY immerse themselves in the incredible African Drumming and Capoeira workshop! ??????This unique experience was full of rhythm, movement, and cultural connection. A big thank you to our wonderful partner,?Pittsburgh Cultural Trust, for making this enriching workshop possible, allowing students to explore Afro-Brazilian culture through music and the art of movement.

???? Building Connections for Digital Access! ???? ? Last week, Ricardo and Gina, our Education Navigators , attended a GPDIA meeting, where they toured Computer Reach and connected with several organizations working to bridge the digital divide. ? They had a great conversation with Dave Sevick, Executive Director of Computer Reach, and Gina McGrath, Digital Navigator/Education Advisor, about the possibility of collaborating to provide free computers to families in need. ??? ? Additionally, they learned that through Computer Reach, families can access low-cost internet services offered by T-Mobile. This could be a game-changer for many in our community! ? We’re excited about the possibilities ahead! ??

Have you noticed how indecisive Pittsburgh’s weather can be? ?????? One day it feels like spring, and the next, winter makes a comeback! That’s why many call this time of year false spring. To celebrate this unpredictable season, SOY students got creative and made their own scarves! ???? They planned, measured, cut, and tied fleece fabric to craft cozy and stylish scarves. If you ever need help tying a solid knot—now you know who to ask! ??

Last week, some members of the LCC staff attended the launch party for Crash Boat at Two Frays Brewery – a Puerto Rican-inspired beer created by our community member, Nina Santiago. ?????? In support of Brave Noise Beer, Nina chose LCC as the organization to receive proceeds from this special brew. We are beyond grateful for this incredible gesture of support! Thank you, Nina,?Two frays Brewery, and?Brave noise beer, for your generosity and commitment to our community! ????