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Address: 223 S. Winnebago Street Rockford, IL 61102
Phone: 815-489-8500
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A quality home is the foundation of society & community
As the crisp air of autumn approaches, the Rockford Housing Authority is excited to share with you the heartwarming journey we continue to embark on. It’s a journey that highlights the richness of culture, the strength of unity, and the power of small cultural and ethnic businesses within our community. “National Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the beautiful tapestry of cultures that make our community strong. It’s about embracing diversity and recognizing the contributions that have shaped our collective identity,” states Laura Snyder, CEO. The Rockford Housing Authority is coming together to celebrate the rich tapestry of Latino culture while shining a spotlight on the invaluable contributions of all small businesses in our community and region.
Embracing the Tapestry of Culture
From September 15 to October 15, we proudly join the nation in observing National Hispanic Heritage Month. This is a time to celebrate and honor the histories, cultures, and invaluable contributions of our fellow American citizens who trace their ancestry to Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, Central and South America. It’s a celebration that’s woven into the fabric of our community’s diversity.
A Legacy of Inclusion
Reflecting, Laura conveys, “As we commemorate this month, we’re not just celebrating the past; we’re building bridges to the future. By supporting local small businesses, we’re fostering an environment where entrepreneurship thrives, and dreams take flight.” Let’s journey back to 1968 when the seeds of recognition were planted. Under the visionary leadership of President Lyndon Johnson, Hispanic Heritage Week was established. It was a step forward in acknowledging the vibrant Hispanic community’s contributions to our society. Fast forward to 1988, and President Ronald Reagan expanded this observance into a month-long celebration, covering September 15 to October 15. On August 17, 1988, it was etched into law as Public Law 100-402.
Dates to Help you Define the Significance of September 15
September 15 holds a profound significance. On this day, we honor the independence anniversaries of countries that form the mosaic of Hispanic heritage – Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. Their struggles and triumphs resonate with our own aspirations for a united and diverse community.
But the story doesn’t stop there. On September 16 and September 18, Mexico and Chile proudly celebrate their own battles for independence. Their journeys of resilience and determination are a testament to the strength within the Hispanic culture.
Fostering Unity and Entrepreneurship
During this month of celebration, we extend an invitation to all members of our community to come together. Through various events held throughout the Rock River Valley region, from art exhibitions to culinary and ethnic showcases, we’re embracing and recognizing the diversity that enriches our lives. This year, as you may have already seen, we are shining a spotlight on our local small businesses – the engines of entrepreneurship that keep our community vibrant.
Your Participation Matters
From pop-up markets featuring Latino artisans to food festivals showcasing traditional dishes, we’re thrilled to provide support and encouragement for these businesses to shine. One of the most exciting aspects of this month’s celebration is the emphasis on supporting these businesses. We firmly believe that small businesses are the backbone of our economy, and this year’s events will be an opportunity to highlight the incredible entrepreneurial spirit within our community.
We encourage all members of the Rockford community to join us. Whether you’re a long-time resident or new to the area, these events provide a wonderful opportunity to connect with neighbors, learn about different cultures, and support local businesses. Your presence and engagement can make a real difference in creating a strong, united community.
The Rockford Spirit: Embracing Diversity, Building Unity
At RHA, we believe that the spirit of unity and diversity thrives within our community. As we commemorate National Hispanic Heritage Month, let’s remember that by embracing our differences, we strengthen the bonds that hold us together. Our collective heritage is a tapestry of stories, and each thread is a testament to the resilience and spirit that defines us.
Celebrate, Learn, and Unite
Keep an eye on local social media platforms, community centers, and local announcements for more information about the exciting events planned for National Hispanic Heritage Month. “Our Rockford community is a canvas of stories, and National Hispanic Heritage Month allows us to paint with the vibrant colors of culture and unity. Let’s come together, learn from each other, and strengthen the bonds that make us who we are,” concludes Laura. Together, let’s embrace the beauty of diversity and celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit that enriches our community. Thank you for being an integral part of our Rockford family. We look forward to celebrating with you!
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
The Rockford Regional Hispanic Chamber of Commerce is a membership-based organization of local business leaders and individuals who work together to provide leadership that promotes and defends responsible, equitable economic development, job opportunities, government, educational excellence, and long-term sustainability for local Hispanic and minority residents.
Link: https://www.rrhispanicc.org/home
The Illinois Latino Small Business Partnership, funded by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity and powered by the Illinois Hispanic Chamber of Commerce provides assistance to small businesses to continue to recover from the pandemic and prepare for growth.
Link: https://ihccbusiness.net/illinois-latino-small-business-partnership/
YWCA La Voz Latina offers a wide variety of services and programs for communities in Boone, Jo Daviess, McHenry, Ogle, Stephenson and Winnebago counties in Illinois. Programs are not limited to the Latino/Hispanic population. Link: https://www.ywcanwil.org/la-voz-latina/
To continue to create strategic partnerships with community stakeholders, design a diverse housing portfolio, leverage social service programming to unite and ensure residents are provided with safe and nurturing environments that lead to self-sufficiency, responsibility, and individual empowerment.
This Earth Day, let's unite for a brighter future!
Today, we're reminded of the importance of our planet and the role each of us plays in protecting it.
View the RHA Earth Day 2024 Blog here:
https://rockfordha.org/earth-day-2024/
Effective today, Monday, April 22, 2024, the current RHA Low-Income Public Housing (LIPH) Family Waiting List will open until further notice. Pre-applications can be completed online at https://www.rockfordhousingauthority.com/ and are available at 223 S. Winnebago Street Rockford, IL 61102.
#RHA
Let's come together to celebrate Diversity Month by acknowledging the beauty found in our distinct backgrounds, viewpoints, and identities. #RHA #MovingForwardTogether
Within 5 years the RHA will re-establish itself as high performing agency that is a leader in housing and sustainable communities by developing additional, non-HUD revenue streams, increasing our asset base and offering state of the art resident initiatives.
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