Through adversity and uncertainty, Brookhaven-area ‘s Latin American Association strives to be a safe place where families in crisis can find life-saving resources.
Andrea N. Smith, the organization’s chief development officer, said the presence of immigration agents in the Atlanta area with a focus on deporting illegal aliens “brings about a certain amount of nervousness” among the Latin community.
“We have, and continue to strive to be, a trusted partner where people can get resources to provide for their families,” Smith said.
Most of the people served by the Latin American Association live in DeKalb County, which is heavily populated by Latinos, especially in Doraville, Brookhaven, and surrounding cities, but Smith said a good number of clients live in Gwinnett County.
The organization, although focused on the needs of the Latino community, helps people in need, no matter their ethnicity.
“If anyone comes to us needing help, we don’t turn them away,” Smith said.
LAA’ mission, according to its website, “is to empower our community to adapt, integrate and thrive.”
It works to lower the barriers to economic mobility and prosperity, “by offering resources, support, and a sense of community that all families in Georgia need to thrive.”
Services offered include adult English classes, connecting job seekers with employers, empowering youth to becoming entrepreneurs, serving the needs of victims of domestic abuse, and offering support to those dealing with immigration issues.
Founded in 1972, the LAA improves the lives of 40,000 people each year, Smith said, work that is ” heartfelt and emotional”.
“It really makes my heart smile when I see how we help these families in need every day,” she said.
Clients like Shirley Ramos credit LAA’s Workforce Development program with giving her the culinary skills that led to her job as a chef supervisor at State Farm Arena.
“I’m completely, utterly grateful to the LAA,” she said in a video interview. “I couldn’t have done it without you. When people ask me about getting into the culinary [world], I say the Latin American Association – go with them.”
The Latin American Association is located at 2750 Buford Highway NE, Atlanta. The organization welcomes monetary donations or contributions to its food pantry.
