La Esperanza
La Esperanza is an outreach ministry of Holy Spirit. We currently serve over 70 Latina families/ 300+people in Madison, Buncombe and Yancey counties. The majority are first and second generation immigrants from Mexico, Guatemala and Honduras. This ministry includes:
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Social and educational activities for women and children
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Local food sale events to help support families
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Numerous community partnerships
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Activities for ages 6-16
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Health and wellness programs
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Free interpreting/translating services for Latina families and local schools and non-profits
La Esperanza Director Rebecca Sharp has worked with the Latina families in Madison County since 2001. She is committed to serving Latina families with particular focus on women and children and the health and wellness of the community. She is fluent in Spanish and is trained as a Spanish medical interpreter and community health worker.
Assistant Director Ana Laura Gaspar Lara was born in Mexico City and moved to North Carolina when she was 10 years old. She previously worked as an interpreter at the Yancey County Health Department and had volunteered with La Esperanza for about 2 years before becoming assistant direcor.