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Empowering Latino Futures (ELF), formerly Latino Literacy Now, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that was founded in 1997 by Edward James Olmos and Kirk Whisler. It is headquartered in North San Diego County. Every day we build on more than 20 years of experience working with the Latino community to bring a combination of innovative, educational, and culturally relevant resources to this diverse community. To address the array of needs, we have developed a variety of programs that focus on lowering barriers by increasing access to education and uplifting Latino voices and talent. ELF believes that an individual’s potential for greatness is only limited by their access to resources and support.
MISSION Our mission is to remove barriers to educational and professional success for Latinos, Latinas, and other underserved communities by creating products, services, content, partnerships, and programs that lead to equal opportunity for all. VISION A world where inclusion and equity principles grant everyone access to educational, community-building, and empowerment programs, as well as opportunities to pursue their professional dreams. EVOLUTION The organization started as a collective effort of various individuals seeking equal opportunities for all. Frustrated that no large, public events specifically targeted the needs of the Latino community, actor Edward James Olmos, Kirk Whisler, and other community members created the first Latino Book & Family Festival in 1997 in Los Angeles. The event drew 16,242 attendees and helped open the doors to new kinds of events focused on providing helpful resources for individuals and families in the Latino community. From this event, ELF was founded. Over the years, ELF has grown to include a range of programs focused on empowering the Latino community. This includes developing and distributing educational resources as well as bringing together community members, experts on educational topics, and authors to promote reading and education and lift up Latino talent. Since 1997, our programs have been utilized by 1.7 million people and have directly impacted the lives of an estimated 7,500 people. |
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Empowering Latino Futures & North County Informador are excited to announce the addition of four new and exciting eNewsletters! |
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Congratulations to all of the 2024 International Latino Book Awards
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Copyright Empowering Latino Futures. All Rights Reserved.
624 Hillcrest Ln, Fallbrook, CA 92028 Phone: (760) 645-3455 | Contact |
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