Events

12/06/2006

Are you someone who often says “I could make a difference” or “I could do that better?” There’s something in all of us that makes us want to achieve or lead others, but sometimes it’s hard to know where to start.

If you’re good at making decisions and setting direction, you should come to Westchester’s First Hispanic Leadership Conference on Dec. 14. This free event, sponsored by Westchester County’s Office for Hispanic Affairs and the United Way of Westchester and Putnam, will run from 5:30 to 9 p.m. at the Neuberger Museum of Art at Purchase College.

Organizers are ready to give you encouragement and provide all kinds of information about the opportunities that exist for people who want to get involved. (And while you’re there, be sure to check out the “Crossing the Boulevard” exhibit that shows portraits of immigrants in a new more diverse America.) 

Many young people in particular know they want to help their community in some way, and know they have leadership qualities, but they don’t know exactly how to go about it. This is a chance to learn how to go from ‘a’ to ‘b’ to ‘c.’

So many bilingual/bicultural agencies are in need of Latino expertise. Almost every organization needs someone who is Spanish speaking to help them out in the community. You can also be a mentor for a Hispanic youngster, volunteer as a Big Brother or Big Sister, offer your writing or translating skills to an under-staffed agency, do clerical work,  help with outreach efforts to those in need, or do many other tasks. Here at the county, our Office for Hispanic Affairs consistently uses volunteers to put together events. 

The leadership conference is a wonderful chance to talk to the people who are most familiar with the non-profit community and find out more about what the needs are out there. If you let them know what skills and interests you have to offer, they can help connect you with just the right opportunities.

A representative of the United Way of Westchester and Putnam will talk about volunteer opportunities and leadership training programs. The director of the county’s Office for Hispanic Affairs will give an update on how many organizations need help or want to recruit members for their board of directors.

We all recognize the great need that exists out there, but not everybody is willing to step forward and do something about it. Being a leader in your own community is a great way of letting your voice be heard. Why not give it a try?