LAUP Executive Director, Roberto Jara

LAUP - Serving the Hispanic Community of Holland for 43 Years!

LAUP is non-profit organization committed to assisting the the special needs of the Hispanic Community in Holland and the surrounding communities.

In the 50 years since Hispanics started moving into the area, LAUP has been instrumental in addressing issues of bilingual education, fair housing practices, health and social services for Hispanics, and issues of public policy.

 Today LAUP focuses on “empowering Latinos to participate in creating a better community for all,” by offering educational programs, youth development programs, and general services that focus on the needs of our continually growing Hispanic population.

 As a part of its Steps to Success Program, LAUP offers English as a Second Language classes in shortage due to state budget cuts in recent years. LAUP also offers bilingual computer training and G.E.D. preparation in Spanish in order to better equip Hispanics for advancement in the workplace.

 Additionally, while Holland and the surrounding school districts have done an excellent job of moving Hispanic students into higher education, LAUP seeks to strengthen these efforts by developing its youth programs. Long known for the Fiesta Queen and King program, LAUP will be launching its first Hispanic Youth Leadership Conference in the Fall of 2008.

 Finally, LAUP offers a variety of important services to the Hispanic community or anyone who can use the services LAUP offers (no one is turned away): document translation, advocacy, and most recently, LAUP has added its Legal Services Center. Recently launched, the Legal Services Center provides the services of licensed attorney at affordable rates.

 Our mission in all that we do is to give Hispanics the tools they need, whether it be the ability to speak fluent English or to use the computer, in order that them might participate fully in the community!

Exciting Announcements:

LAUP opens Legal Services Center to assist clients with immigration and other legal issues

Attorney Richard Edmonds is a licensed attorney working with LAUP to offer legal service at rates much much lower than regular attorney fees. Please contact Richard at (616) 392-5058 for an appointment. There is no charge for a consultation.

LAUP to Organize its First Ever Hispanic Youth Leadership Conference!

LAUP has been meeting with school officials and other committed individuals to organize LAUP's first Hispanic Youth Leadership Conference. To be held in the Fall, the conference will focus on empowering youth to fulfill their potential as participants and leaders in their community. Students will be challenged to view their familiarity with two cultures as an asset, to seek higher education, and to give back to their community. Look for more information in the coming months.

LAUP receives grant from the Heinz Foundation!

Heinz has a long history with LAUP. Reflecting Heinz' commitment to the Hispanic Community, Heinz recently awarded LAUP a $3,000 grant to support LAUP's educational programs. Above: Factory & Regional Agriculture Manager, Jerry Shoup presents LAUP Board Members and Staff with Heinz' gift.

As you can see our website is being reconstructed! Changes will be made in the days and weeks to come.

For now, feel free to contact us at:

(616) 392-5058