Thursday morning marked a momentous occasion for the Greater Reading community as Centro Hispano celebrated the grand opening of their new Welcome Center, located in the Gateway Building at 201 Penn Street. The event was filled with pride, hope, and unity as the organization’s President & CEO, Michael Toledo, delivered a heartfelt message of gratitude and purpose.
“I stand before you today with immense pride and joy as we come together to celebrate the official opening of the Centro Hispano Welcome Center, a place for our community to find the support and services they need to thrive,” Toledo stated, setting the tone for the day’s celebration.
The Centro Hispano Welcome Center is set to become a hub for the local community, providing essential services and support for individuals from all backgrounds, ages, and circumstances. The facility boasts a range of features, including information and referral programming, health equity education, parental engagement programs and a community technology lab.
In his passionate speech, Toledo expressed immense pride and gratitude to everyone who contributed to making this dream a reality. “A heartfelt thanks go out to every volunteer, sponsor, and supporter, who has been a part of this incredible journey,” he said. “Centro Hispano’s commitment to breaking down barriers of access is a testament to the belief that every individual in our community deserves a fair and equitable opportunity to succeed.”
The Welcome Center’s doors are open to all, without judgment or discrimination. Its staff is committed to offering guidance, resources, and a warm smile to anyone who seeks assistance. The center aims to foster a welcoming and inclusive community where everyone feels respected and valued.
Beyond the immediate services, Centro Hispano will be a hub of empowerment in the community, offering parent education programs, job training, and access to digital resources. The goal is to provide a stepping stone towards a brighter future for all community members.
As the ribbon was cut, it symbolized not only the official opening of the Welcome Center but the start of a new era filled with hope and opportunity. Toledo invited the community to explore the services and programs offered by the center and join in creating a stronger, more inclusive, and thriving community for all.
In his closing remarks, he emphasized the organization’s belief in the potential of those they serve and their commitment to empowering them. “We believe in your potential, we are here to empower you,” he declared. Together, with the support of the community, Centro Hispano aims to achieve incredible things and make a lasting, positive impact on the lives of the people they serve.
The Centro Hispano Welcome Center stands as a symbol of hope, unity, and compassion, reflecting the organization’s unwavering dedication to enhancing the lives of the Latino population and fostering a more inclusive community in the Greater Reading area.
