The Estes Latino Alliance is preparing for a busy fall, with Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations, student outreach, citizenship assistance, and efforts to connect Latino residents with local businesses and community organizations.
Alliance members gathered Wednesday in the Trail Ridge Room at the Holiday Inn to discuss upcoming events and initiatives as the new organization, a committee of the Estes Chamber of Commerce, works to expand its presence in the Estes Valley.
One of the Alliance’s primary tools is its new website, a digital hub featuring a Latino-owned business directory, community news and events, and a Spanish-language podcast with weekly local updates.
Hispanic Heritage Month brings a full calendar
The alliance is planning several events around Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs Sept. 15 through Oct. 15.
A family fiesta is set for Sept. 19 at Cleave Street Commons. Plans also include a Town of Estes Park proclamation, articles highlighting Latino culture and history, and informal social gatherings.
An art crawl beginning the first Friday in October will feature Día de los Muertos-themed artwork displayed at participating Estes Park businesses.
The art crawl will culminate in a Nov. 4 Día de los Muertos celebration, during which awards will be presented for artwork displayed throughout the month. Erika Santana is leading planning for the celebration and seeking volunteers, financial support, and other community participation.
The alliance also plans smaller gatherings, including a board game night and events at local sports venues.
Connecting students with the community
Alliance members discussed establishing a Latino student club to connect young people with businesses, nonprofits, and higher education opportunities. The alliance will invite students to participate in alliance activities, including constructing altars for Día de los Muertos and taking part in a piñata competition.
The organization plans to meet with school representatives to establish goals for the partnership. School leaders at Wednesday’s meeting emphasized the importance of inclusive communication with Hispanic students and their families.
Supporting citizenship and homeownership
Immigration attorney Autumn Nelson provided an update on the Citizenship Project, an initiative of six Estes Valley organizations that began in 2023 and supports individuals pursuing U.S. citizenship. Nelson reported that the current filing fee for most applicants is $710. The government may be increasing the fee to $1,300.
The alliance is also helping connect Spanish-speaking residents with homeownership resources. Realtor Luis Guadarrama of the Vega Team will hold a Spanish-language seminar for first-time homebuyers Sept. 8 from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Holiday Inn, with support from the Estes Chamber of Commerce. The seminar will cover financing options, down-payment assistance, and other resources available to prospective homeowners.
Building connections through sports, the arts, and community partnerships
Alliance members pointed to a recent soccer tournament that drew more than 100 participants as an example of how recreation can strengthen community connections. The tournament included a women’s team from Paraguay and concluded with a family gathering. Organizers are now considering a winter volleyball event.
The Fine Arts Guild of the Rockies is also looking to broaden participation in the arts. The organization plans to announce its upcoming season, offer audition opportunities, and provide scholarships for arts camps and admission to performances.
Other Estes Valley organizations are expanding their involvement with the Latino community.
The Estes Park Museum is adding a part-time program assistant and developing programs intended to make the museum a stronger community resource.
The Estes Chamber of Commerce plans to provide alliance agendas, minutes, and emails in English and Spanish. And Visit Estes Park is offering marketing and promotional assistance for community events.