About Us

Our Mission

To serve as the bridge between Idaho’s government and Hispanic population. We represent our shared values and set priorities that foster positive relations, effective partnerships, and strategic initiatives to connect our community.

Our Vision

A vibrant Hispanic community whose success, contribution, and culture enriches Idaho values and priorities.

Strong Roots.

Shared Values.

One Community.

Timeline of Action

1980s – Foundation & Early Advocacy

Established by Statute (1987): Signed legislation with the support of Idaho Governor Cecil Andrus and Hispanic leaders to address the urgent needs of the Hispanic community.
Hispanic Initiative Report (1987–1989 groundwork): Early collaboration with Hispanic leaders and policymakers on education, health, business, and labor.
Hispanic Veterans Medal of Honor Project (1989): Partnered with the VA to honor Hispanic Medal of Honor recipients in recognition of their service to our country.
Laying the Groundwork: Initiated relationships with state agencies, policymakers, and community organizations to elevate Hispanic issues.

1990s – Expansion of Programs & Cultural Recognition

Oral Histories & Writing Seminars (1990–1993): Created Voces Hispanas and women’s writing anthologies that highlighted Hispanic achievement and authors.
Education & Youth Initiatives: Hosted conferences, launched the Teatro Project for migrant children, and built early after-school and prevention programs.
Policy Advocacy: Influenced farmworker wage/compensation legislation and advised the Governor on judicial appointments.
Cultural Milestones: Led efforts for the Idaho Hispanic Cultural Center (opened 2003) and statewide traveling exhibits on Hispanic history.

2000s – Youth Empowerment & Statewide Leadership

Youth Programs: Launched El Día de Los Niños (2000–present), Soy Única, Soy Latina (2001), and the Idaho Youth Leadership Summit (2006–present).
Public Engagement: Annual Hispanic Legislative Receptions (2004–present) and forums to increase Hispanic civic participation.
Education Advocacy: Hosted the first Idaho Summit on Educational Excellence About Hispanic Students (2008) and published white papers addressing achievement gaps.
National & Regional Networks: Strengthened partnerships with United States Hispanic Leadership Institute (USHLI) and U.S. Census.

2010s – Data, Policy, & Equity Focus

Strategic Reports & Publications: Released multiple Hispanic Profile Data Booksand education-focused reports to guide state policy.
Leadership Development: Student leadership trainings in partnership with USHLI, growing the pipeline of Hispanic civic leaders.
Community Health & Wellness: Launched fitness fiestas, health fairs, and tobacco prevention initiatives targeting Hispanic youth.
Statewide Representation: Expanded role in advisory councils, strengthening the Hispanic perspective in health, justice, and education systems.

2020s – Continuing the Legacy

Idaho Youth Leadership Summit Expansion: Annual Idaho Youth Leadership Summit now held across all regions of Idaho in partnership with Idaho institutions of higher education (Treasure Valley, Magic Valley, Eastern, Northern Idaho).
Law Enforcement Conferences (2020–2022): Increased trust between immigrant communities and police through dialogue and training.
Health Equity Leadership: Hosted the Hispanic/American Indian Healthcare Conference (2024–2025) and launched the statewide Healthcare Plan (2025).
Global & National Representation: Engaged with the Mexican Consulate, U.S. Census Bureau, and international forums to amplify priority issues for Idaho’s Hispanic community.