Preschool, afterschool programming, youth summer camp, adult educational classes for English Language Learners, citizenship classes, food pantry, social services—these are just some of the programs that La Casa de Amistad offers to the Latino and immigrant community of South Bend, Indiana. Founded in 1973 by Father John Phalen, La Casa de Amistad continues to work to empower the Latino/Hispanic community by providing educational, cultural, and advocacy services in a welcoming and bilingual environment. IQLatino had the opportunity to speak with team member Juan Constantino to learn more about the important work this organization does to uplift and empower members of our community.
Since 1973, La Casa de Amistad has answered to the needs of a growing and evolving Latino community, which has grown six times over since its founding. In the 1980s, Latinos made up only 3% of South Bend’s population, that number is close to 20% in 2020. This organization, which began as a youth outreach center, has honored the vision of its founders and gone on to become a leader in educational, neighborhood, and immigration advocacy.
La Casa de Amistad offers over 13 services and programs to members of its community to work towards a future in which the Latino culture and its members can actively participate in our society. Through its citizenship program, over 800 people have gone on to become United States citizens. In order to meet the needs of a growing Latino community, La Casa de Amistad has launched El Sueño Project, a capital campaign project with a goal of raising $3.25 million to move from their 8,000 sq. foot building to a 41,000 sq. foot space and be able to fund renovations, programming funds, an a $500,000 endowment for the center.
La Casa de Amistad’s team is motivated by its passion to make a difference in the lives of its community. “Many of us have personally been impacted by the work of La Casa de Amistad or by a center like it. Whether it was for ourselves, our parents, a friend or family member, we simply want to be the helping hand we once needed in our lives or in the lives of those we love,” Juan explained.
As for advice for fellow Latinos in South Bend and all throughout the country who would like to pursue similar advocacy, Juan advices that we find a way to get involved with either our time, talent, or treasure. Everyone has their own way to make a difference—whether helping a nonprofit build a new website, fundraising for them, or donating to their cause. “Find your passion, volunteer and support those causes that are important to you and invite other to join you. Advocacy isn’t a one-time event or moment. It’s a way to continually live and something we always do,” he said. He, and the team over at La Casa de Amistad, invite us all to try and help project the voices of those most marginalized in our communities.
We are grateful for the work that organizations like La Casa de Amistad do to empower our communities. To learn more about their cause, visit their website or check out their Facebook, Instagram or Twitter platforms at @lacasadeamistad.