by Ileana Martinez | May 24, 2024 | News & Updates
SER National and the SER Network of Affiliates proudly pause on this Memorial Day to remind all Americans of the profound and enduring sacrifices made by the valiant defenders of our democracy. These brave souls gave their lives to protect the freedoms we cherish in the United States of America. Today, we honor their memory, acknowledging that our liberty was secured at the highest cost鈥攅ach life lost was a courageous warrior.
鈥淔or them, their rest now is eternal, and for us, our duty is to honor their legacy by engaging in positive actions that build up our nation,鈥 says President and CEO Ignacio Salazar. 鈥淭hrough our unity in meaningful and honorable endeavors daily, we can embody the collective spirit of the America they fought and died for,鈥 he adds.
Originally known as Decoration Day, this observance began in 1868 to honor fallen Union soldiers from the Civil War. On that day, Americans placed flowers at the graves of their military loved ones who died in combat. Over time, cities across the United States began to honor their war dead annually, and in 1968, the observance was officially renamed Memorial Day. Congress declared it a federal holiday in 1971. The tradition of red poppies on Memorial Day serves as a poignant reminder of the flowers that grew amidst the desolation of battlefields.
The sacrifice of all American military service members lost in combat has ensured that our nation remains a land of opportunity and freedom. SER National and the SER Network of Affiliates are dedicated to helping more than one million program participants harness their talents yearly, pursue education and training, and succeed in their careers. In doing so, we honor the legacy of those who gave their lives by perpetuating the American dream they died to protect.
This Memorial Day, as we visit the sacred resting places of our fallen heroes adorned with flowers and flags, let us remember that they were someone鈥檚 child, sibling, parent, or friend. Let us elevate our spirits in reflection, recognizing that there was no greater love for our service members than their devotion to God, Country, and Family. Let this day be a testament to our gratitude and a promise that we will never forget their courage and sacrifice. So too, may our actions at work for and with others be our constant tribute.
鈥淢emorial Day鈥檚 true honor is in remembering our brave warriors. Some we know by name, as they were our loved ones and friends. For all, we offer a silent prayer of gratitude, knowing that in our daily endeavors, we carry forward what they could not. In this way, our lives are forever intertwined,鈥 says Salazar.
Let us commemorate this Memorial Day with a renewed commitment to the values our fallen heroes defended, ensuring their sacrifice continues to inspire our actions and dedication to a better America.
by Ileana Martinez | May 7, 2024 | Affiliate News
In Pittsburgh, a city steeped in the history of America鈥檚 industrial boom and change, a new collective of voices is being heard. The sound is different, reflecting a tapestry of fresh cultural experiences, and its source is Casa San Jose. There, Latino families and individuals are coming together and creating an opportunity to infuse Pittsburg with a new vitality for the future.
Established in 2013 by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Baden, Casa San Jose was born out of a deep-seated commitment to uplift and empower the region鈥檚 burgeoning Latino population. The richly faceted social services agency embodies the resilience and empowerment that define the organization鈥檚 mission.
Monica Ruiz, Executive Director of Casa San Jose in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, readily acknowledges the challenges and growth of the Latino community. She states, 鈥淚 think that for us here in Pittsburgh, PA, Latinos are less than 2% of the population, but we have grown more than 80% in the last ten years. Before, Latinos came for work and then left to return to their homes, returning seasonally. But then, they began to settle here and stayed to raise their families.鈥
As the city witnessed an influx of newcomers, Casa San Jose emerged as a lifeline, filling in the gaps for services that the community desperately needed but were unavailable. Monica鈥檚 vision extended beyond immediate aid; she aimed to create bridges within institutions and processes that have seen little change in decades.
Monica laments, recounting the countless instances where community members were stranded because of a lack of linguistic support in crucial institutions. 鈥淟anguage access remains a significant barrier,鈥 Ruiz states. 鈥淟anguage access must be our greatest barrier at present. You go into a city or county office, and they have nothing in Spanish for residents. Even healthcare services lack language and cultural accessibility. For example, we only have two Spanish-speaking pediatricians,鈥 she says.
The organization鈥檚 staff reflects the community they serve. Ruiz notes, 鈥淲e have a staff of 27, and out of these individuals, maybe six or seven were born here in the United States. Everyone else is from somewhere else or has received services from us. Their lived experience is invaluable as they now help others. We have a great mix of people,鈥 Monica beams, highlighting their shared experiences as immigrants and their dedication to the cause.
鈥淐asa San Jose fills gaps in services for the community,鈥 Ruiz emphasizes. 鈥淗owever, we want people to acquire the skills and knowledge to learn how to navigate the services themselves in this city. This is a very complex process, but we鈥檙e building resiliency within folks as they experience success,鈥 she adds.
Casa San Jose is a resource hub for Latino immigrants seeking assistance and guidance from weekly clinics and food pantries to Know Your Rights sessions and summer camps. Its comprehensive programs encompass social services, emergency aid, community advocacy, English language classes, mental health support, housing assistance, and specialized programs for children with autism.
As importantly, Casa San Jose champions amplifying inclusion at every level within the larger community, ensuring that the voices of those they serve are heard and elevated. 鈥淩epresentation is essential,鈥 emphasizes Monica. Particularly important is pushing for inclusivity in decision-making processes in programs and services that impact the Latino population. Ruiz explains, 鈥淩epresentation means having people with a voice and viewpoint authentic to the issue or need we are addressing in our city.鈥
One central area of focus of Casa San Jose is working with local youths through several of the organization鈥檚 programs: J贸venes Con Prop贸sito fosters a vibrant community of Latino youth, championing immigrant rights and igniting social change. With a firm belief in the current leadership of today鈥檚 youth, the program meets weekly during the academic year, nurturing empowerment and activism.
Puentes Hacia el Futuro, tailored for ages 6-14, cultivates cultural identity and leadership skills through trust-building activities, discussions, and educational pursuits, preparing youth for a dynamic future blending Latino and American cultures.
Campamento Sonrisa offers an enriching summer experience for youths aged 7-14, blending education, outdoor adventures, and sports. Participants enjoy nutritious meals throughout the structured camp, including breakfast, lunch, and snacks. The elementary session runs from June to July, while the middle school session spans from mid-July to August, providing an inclusive opportunity for all applicants at no cost.
Casa San Jose serves multi-generational families in tangible, practical ways every day. For its stakeholders, it is both about the here and now and the future of the Latino comunidad. 鈥淲e are learning from other larger cities with decades of experience working within significantly bigger Latino populations,鈥 says Ruiz. 鈥淎t the same time, I hope that we can offer smaller communities near and around us an example of how to build resilience and help our people not just survive but thrive for years to come,鈥 she adds.
by Ileana Martinez | May 1, 2024 | News & Updates
As the nation commemorates the historic Battle of Puebla on Cinco de Mayo, SER Jobs for Progress National, Inc. (SER National) reflects on the strength of the Hispanic community and its significant contributions to the workforce and economy of the United States. This year鈥檚 celebration marks not only a pivotal moment in Mexican history but also serves as a reminder of the increasing presence and labor power that characterize Hispanic and Latino American workers.
鈥淟atinos in the United States are poised to meet our country鈥檚 workforce needs now and in the future as the fastest growing and largest demographic of younger men and women,鈥 says Ignacio Salazar, President & CEO. 鈥淥ur nation鈥檚 educational pipeline, training, and skills development capacity is being challenged to keep pace with this historical growth. This is why the SER Network of Affiliates works daily in anticipation of this continued exponential demand. Together, we can ensure that the sheer number of Latinos in labor translates into economic advancement and opportunities for generations to come,鈥 adds Salazar.
Latinos in the United States constitute a vital workforce component, representing approximately 20% of the population and workforce. With a median age of 38.5 years on the job, Hispanic workers are younger than their non-Hispanic counterparts, making significant contributions to the labor force.
鈥淲e continue to meet the workforce needs of our country in many areas, including the building trades, service industries, and manufacturing,鈥 states Salazar. 鈥淗owever, we are also emerging as a vital force in technological areas, including software sciences, the latest healthcare jobs, and AI-driven sectors. SER National is aligning vital stakeholders across the United States and Puerto Rico because we see the challenges and opportunities and are committed to being ready for both,鈥 adds Salazar.
The U.S. Census Bureau projects that by 2040, more than one in four Americans will be Hispanic, highlighting the growing influence of this community. According to the U.S. Latino GDP Report, if Latinos living in the United States were an independent country, their GDP would rank fifth in the world at $3.2 trillion, underscoring their significant economic impact.
Despite their contributions, disparities in pay and job opportunities persist for Hispanic and Latino workers. Initiatives aimed at providing better outcomes, including education and retraining programs that prepare and transition workers to new high-wage, high-demand employment, are crucial to addressing these disparities and ensuring sustainable incomes for Latino families.
鈥淎s a nation, we are stronger in unity of purpose and in the shared vision that our country鈥檚 history is inextricably linked to the integration of immigrants into the fabric of America,鈥 emphasized Salazar. 鈥淭ogether, we can ensure that the sheer number of Latinos in labor translates into economic advancement and opportunities for future generations.鈥
As SER National observes Cinco de Mayo 2024, it reaffirms its commitment to empowering Hispanic and Latino communities through education, training, and economic development initiatives. By breaking down barriers to workforce success, we pave the way for a more inclusive and prosperous future.
by Ileana Martinez | Mar 7, 2024 | News & Updates
SER National joins the global community in celebrating International Women鈥檚 Day and Women鈥檚 Month 2024, embracing this year鈥檚 theme of Inspire Inclusion. As an organization dedicated to service, employment, and redevelopment, we recognize the pivotal role of women in shaping our society and economy. Guided by our mission to empower individuals and communities, we proudly honor the invaluable contributions of women across the nation.
鈥淥n behalf of SER National and the SER Network of Affiliates, we are moved by this year鈥檚 compelling theme of inspiring inclusiveness in our world,鈥 says Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO. 鈥淲omen are the backbone of our vast Familia de SER鈥檚 agencies, programs, and initiatives. Every day, they help lead, innovate, and motivate all of us to excellence. Nearly half our nation鈥檚 workforce, or 75 million, are women, and they own and operate more than 10 million businesses, accounting for almost $1.5 trillion in annual receipts. Yet, women account for only 1-in-4 c-suite positions and 1-in-16 for women of color. So yes, we can and must be more inclusive to tap into the limitless talent women bring,鈥 adds Salazar.
The International Women鈥檚 Day 2024 campaign theme, Inspire Inclusion, resonates deeply with our commitment to diversity and empowerment. We foster a better world when we inspire others to understand and value women鈥檚 inclusion. By championing inclusion, we break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and create environments where all women are valued and respected.
At SER National, we believe that education and awareness are essential in fostering inclusion and empowering women in our country鈥檚 workforce training, social support programs, and diverse work sites. We create opportunities for women to thrive through mentorship, educational workshops, and specialized development programs. We empower women to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential by providing guidance and resources.
As we 欧美丝袜内射 International Women鈥檚 Day and Women鈥檚 Month 2024, let us collectively commit to inspiring inclusion in all aspects of our lives. Together, we can forge a more inclusive world where women are valued, respected, and empowered to reach their highest aspirations.
鈥淚nspiring inclusiveness is to aspire to greatness,鈥 says Salazar. 鈥淎 recent survey by Glassdoor found that 75% of applicants want to be part of an organization that champions inclusiveness, and 62% of people in the workforce see inclusiveness as a major driver of successful organizations. So may we inspire inclusiveness through our actions and uplift women鈥檚 vital contributions in our work and lives,鈥 says Salazar.
by Ileana Martinez | Feb 16, 2024 | News & Updates
As the nation commemorates Presidents Day on the third Monday of February, SER National joins the celebration, recognizing it as a tribute to our highest elected leaders’ leadership, sacrifice, and service. This federal holiday, officially named Washington’s Birthday, holds a special place in our hearts as it pays homage to the first President of the United States, George Washington, and all who have kept the esteemed office.
Presidents Day, often regarded as a day to honor the nation’s chief executives, reminds us of the courage and commitment demonstrated by our leaders. Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO of SER National, reflects on the significance of this day, stating, “SER National 欧美丝袜内射s the meaning of Presidents Day as a moment when we pay tribute to the courage of our nation’s highest elected leaders. Moreover, we are reminded of the true meaning of this role, which is to exemplify leadership through service and sacrifice for the greater good of others. This quality extends to each of us where we work and find our purpose daily.”
Governments, schools, museums, and historical sites throughout the United States observe Presidents Day with various events and activities. Parades, educational programs, historical reenactments, and exhibitions foster a connection between residents and the rich heritage of our country. In Washington, D.C., a wreath-laying ceremony at the Washington Monument adds a poignant touch to the day’s historical significance.
George Washington’s legacy, marked by his universal respect and selfless act of relinquishing power after two terms, set a precedent for his successors. His leadership during the drafting of the U.S. Constitution and his choice to return to private life at Mount Vernon underscored the principles of service and sacrifice.
Abraham Lincoln, born on February 12, 1809, faced and navigated the nation through a profound constitutional, military, and moral crisis during the American Civil War. His Emancipation Proclamation played a pivotal role in transforming the war’s aims from a conflict over states’ rights to a battle for the destruction of slavery. Lincoln’s unwavering commitment to ending slavery culminated in the support for the 13th Amendment to the Constitution, adopted in December 1865. His tragic assassination on April 9, 1865, marked the end of a transformative era in American history.
“SER National believes strongly in the traits required for effective leadership in the workplace,” says Salazar. “Also, those who are asked to undertake the task of leadership throughout the SER Network of Affiliates display several important traits in service to their organization or program. This includes the ability to direct with compassion and humility, share a vision, and inspire those entrusted to them to accomplish their best with dignity and respect. A successful leader requires creating motivation, which comes when a person communicates effectively and fosters a collaborative environment. May this Presidents Day remind us that the strength of truly effective leaders comes from empowering those around them and providing an example that others look up to and wish to support wholeheartedly. As we 欧美丝袜内射 Presidents Day, let us reflect on the enduring principles of leadership, service, and sacrifice that have shaped our nation’s history and continue to inspire us today,” he concludes.
