Toronto, Canada — Kababayan Multicultural Centre partnered with a Hispanic community organization, La Red de Hispanos, to host the first Hispanic Non-Profit Organizations Fair, aimed at showcasing the various non-profit organizations offering personal and professional services to the Latin American community in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), including settlement services, housing, medical services, mental health, education, employment, English language support, legal advice, among others.
During the fair, held at Bathurst-Finch Hub, Carolina Dávila, a Settlement Counsellor at Kababayan Multicultural Centre, explained that their mission is to work for and with the Latin American community in Canada so they know they are not alone and can count on that friendly hand every immigrant needs when starting from scratch in a new country.
"I want everyone to gradually adapt and break down language barriers, isolation, and work. That's why we're here, to be the support for Latinos. I want to tell you that you are not alone because you have us," she said.
She emphasized that when she arrived in Canada and faced different situations to adapt and find a job, she promised to work for and with the Latin American community in Canada.
KMC invited all organizations to build strong alliances that provide more opportunities for newcomers, allowing them to excel in various fields and gain visibility in the Canadian community to benefit all.
Testimonials from the Participants of the Hispanic Non-Profit Organization Fair
Nicolas Ferreras, who has been living in Canada for three years, stated that he attended the fair in search of job opportunities for himself and his parents.
"There are different types of organizations and volunteer opportunities, and I am pleasantly surprised by everything because it is a perfect opportunity to learn. I want to continue connecting with new organizations, and this fair was spectacular because it covers many areas, and we can all benefit from it," he said.
Gabriela Benites, who has been living in Canada for seven years, said she attended the fair to seek general information to help her community when asked about any topic.
"This fair is the perfect opportunity to get to know organizations one does not know. Now I know more organizations that help migrants, and I have the necessary information to help more Latinos," she said.
Services Offered by Organizations
Dolores, a representative of an organization offering services to older adults, explained that the programs they provide seniors are recreational, such as physical education and excursions, to keep them active, healthy, and independent.
"This fair is exciting because there is a variety of organizations. In our case, we have had the opportunity to work with Kababayan, where Carolina offered us presentations of interest to seniors in psychology, and it was enjoyable to work with them," she said.
Carlos Vásquez, representative of the Centre for Spanish-speaking People, said they offer services in legal clinics, settlement programs, against violence against women and seniors, and volunteering.
"This fair was necessary for Spanish speakers, and I am thrilled and gratified to be part of it," he added.
There was also a raffle for gift cards, refreshments, and childcare during the event.
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