Centro Hispano Daniel Torres was recognized on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives this week as it celebrates 60 years of service to Reading and Berks County. Watch Video
During remarks delivered June 8, U.S. Rep. Chrissy Houlahan honored the organization’s six decades of work supporting Latino families throughout the region and highlighted the contributions of its longtime president and CEO, Michael Toledo.
“I rise today to recognize and celebrate the 60th anniversary of Centro Hispano, one of the longest-running Latino-serving organizations in Pennsylvania and a cornerstone of Reading and Berks Counties since 1966,” Houlahan said.
She noted that for six decades the organization has helped generations of Latino families navigate education, healthcare, immigration, employment and other aspects of daily life.
“Today, Reading is home to one of the most vibrant and diverse Latino populations in the Northeast, and Centro Hispano remains a trusted friend and first stop for families seeking help,” Houlahan said.
A significant portion of her remarks focused on Toledo’s leadership and community involvement over the years.
“There would be no Centro Hispano without Mike Toledo,” Houlahan said. “Mike has spent decades moving mountains for the people of Reading.”
She cited his efforts connecting families with food assistance, supporting children’s nutrition programs, organizing COVID-19 vaccination clinics, assisting families following the tragedy at the Palmer factory, and encouraging civic engagement through voter registration efforts.
Houlahan also reflected on Toledo’s well-known greeting to community members.
“Mike greets people with two simple words: ‘Hello, family,'” she said. “And in that spirit of compassion, dignity, and community, we define both the man and the institution he helped build.”
The congresswoman concluded by congratulating Toledo and the organization on “60 extraordinary years of service,” adding that Berks County is stronger because of their work.
Following the recognition, Toledo shared the video of Houlahan’s remarks and thanked the congresswoman for helping commemorate the milestone.
“Today, I am incredibly humbled and honored to share something very special with our Greater Reading and Berks County community,” Toledo wrote in a message posted online.
He noted that the remarks have been entered into the Congressional Record, making Centro Hispano’s history and contributions part of the permanent record of Congress.
“What makes this recognition even more meaningful is that her remarks are now permanently entered into the Congressional Record, ensuring that the story of Centro Hispano’s six decades of service, advocacy, and community impact becomes part of our nation’s history,” Toledo said.
He added that the honor belongs to the many staff members, volunteers, board members, donors, community partners and families who have supported the organization since its founding in 1966.
“Together, we have worked to build a stronger, more welcoming, and more vibrant community for all,” Toledo said.
