“Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude and expressions of appreciation,鈥� says Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO. 鈥淎t SER National, we come together with a special sense of thankfulness that we live in a country abundant with opportunity. Every life, every person, and every program matters. What makes the people within SER so extraordinary is that they put their heart and soul into what they do every day.”

Founded in 1964 as Service, Employment, and Redevelopment (SER), by the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) and the American GI Forum, SER was created to address systemic barriers faced by underserved communities in accessing employment and educational opportunities. From its inception, SER has championed the mission of equipping individuals with the tools to achieve financial independence and upward mobility. Today, through its extensive network of affiliates, SER continues to embody this legacy, transforming lives and strengthening communities across the United States and Puerto Rico.

Participants in workforce programs experience an average earnings increase of 20-30% over three years, directly improving financial security for families. Workforce development initiatives reduce unemployment rates by an average of 5%, contributing to a stronger, more competitive labor market. A report from the National Skills Coalition notes that middle-skill jobs, which require more than a high school diploma but less than a four-year degree, make up 52% of the U.S. job market, yet only 43% of workers are adequately trained. Programs like SER help bridge this gap, aligning skills with demand and driving economic growth.

These outcomes reflect the enduring relevance and necessity of SER’s work. Our programs are not only catalysts for individual success but also for strengthening the economic fabric of our nation. From teaching new skills to workers adapting to shifting industries to supporting those embarking on entirely new career paths, SER ensures that no one walks their journey alone.

The 60-year milestone we 欧美丝袜内射 this year is a testament to the vision of SER鈥檚 founders, who understood that workforce development is essential for unlocking potential and fostering equality. Their legacy endures in the stories of millions whose lives have been touched and transformed through SER鈥檚 programs.

鈥淎s we 欧美丝袜内射, let us be mindful of the shared strength that comes from working together,鈥� says Salazar. 鈥淥n this Thanksgiving, may we all be mindful of each other and how we are better and stronger together. Over the past 60 years, we have grown by embracing unity and will continue to carry out the important work ahead. May you spend this day with your family and friends in celebration and peace.”

From all of us at SER National and the SER Network of Affiliates, we wish you a warm and joyous Thanksgiving. Thank you for being part of this remarkable journey of empowerment and progress.

鈥淰eterans are the foundation of our nation鈥檚 strength鈥攏ot just through their service in uniform, but through their ongoing roles as mainstay employees, professionals, mentors, and role models in their communities,鈥� says Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO. 鈥淲e eagerly encourage and welcome their presence among the more than 1 million program participants we serve annually and help integrate back into the civilian sector. Often, they add as a significant source of their employer鈥檚 continued growth and success wherever they go,鈥� adds Salazar.

As of 2023, approximately 18.3 million U.S. veterans are living today, representing a diverse group that includes nearly 2 million women whose share continues to grow in the veteran community. Over 78% of veterans served during wartime, demonstrating an enduring commitment to the defense of our nation. Veterans of the Gulf War era now comprise the largest group, with 7.8 million serving from August 1990 to the present (Pew Research Center, 2023).

The economic contributions of veterans are substantial. Their participation in the workforce bolsters various sectors, with veteran-owned businesses alone contributing significantly to the economy. The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that veterans have a higher labor force participation rate than non-veterans and tend to pursue careers in management, professional roles, and public service. These contributions enrich industries and foster innovation and resilience across the U.S. economy (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2024).

Then, there are numerous inspiring examples of veterans who have transitioned into public service roles. Tammy Duckworth, a former U.S. Army pilot and double amputee, is a U.S. Senator advocating for military and civilian initiatives. Similarly, Dan Crenshaw, a retired Navy SEAL, represents Texas in the U.S. House of Representatives. The journey of Carlos del Toro, a military veteran who rose to become U.S. Secretary of the Navy, is compelling, too. Each exemplifies how the leadership and discipline forged in military service translate into influential roles that shape national policies.

This Veterans Day, SER National proudly voices its commitment to supporting workforce development and job training programs that empower veterans to thrive post-service. We wholeheartedly unite in gratitude and pledge continued efforts to ensure they find meaningful opportunities and recognition in all aspects of society.

鈥淟et us take this day to acknowledge the sacrifices made by the men and women who have served and continue to serve,鈥� says Salazar. 鈥淚 encourage all Americans to recognize and support veterans within their families and communities as embodiments of dedication and the principles of this great country. May our future continue to be uplifted and made brighter because of veterans among us,鈥� he adds.

鈥淚n Long Beach, there鈥檚 a misconception of prosperity,鈥� says Jessica Quintana, Executive Director. 鈥淲e鈥檙e addressing disparities through advocacy groups and coalitions, ensuring voices from historically neglected areas are heard. Our strong resident leadership, including women, men, and youths, advocates for justice and equality, making a tangible difference in City Council and beyond,鈥� she adds.

Established in 1992 and officially incorporated in 1999, Centro CHA has remained steadfast in its mission to uplift the Latino/Hispanic community through social and economic development initiatives. At the core of Centro CHA鈥檚 ethos lies a commitment to fostering a thriving community where investments in low-income neighborhoods are prioritized and residents are empowered to lead sustainable lives. Their vision extends beyond more service provision; it encompasses a holistic approach to community development that addresses interconnected housing, education, employment, and civic engagement issues. 鈥淲e have weathered peaks and valleys, facing unique challenges as a Latino-led organization in Long Beach,鈥� says Quintana. 鈥淧roudly, our leadership, vision, and team are focused on uplifting our community, especially during crises like the pandemic. When our Latino community was disproportionately hit by economic downturns and faced hardships, our resilient team ensured that essential services continued despite personal risks. Our dedication remains steadfast in providing economic development and immigration support to our seniors, parents, youths, and children,鈥� says Quintana.

Centro CHA鈥檚 future is brighter because of a planned Latino Cultural Center. With $4 million earmarked, the organization is making strides towards its realization, alongside a Mercado for economic empowerment and a hub space for workforce development, signaling a new era of ownership and impact.

Unlike other organizations, Centro CHA鈥檚 integrated approach ensures that individuals accessing their services are not limited to a single program. Instead, they are welcomed 9 SER America 路 Spring 2024into a supportive network offering a myriad of resources tailored to their needs. This commitment to holistic support has earned Centro CHA the trust and respect of its community members, fostering long-term relationships built on mutual understanding and collaboration.

Quintana says none of this progress has been by chance. 鈥淥ur board鈥檚 diverse expertise fortifies Centro CHA鈥檚 mission. With a retired city manager offering institutional insights, a union leader bringing resources for advocacy and job creation, and an immigration lawyer ensuring compliance with data, is crucial. Our Latino Economic Impact Report revealed the overlooked contributions of our community, demanding overdue reinvestment,鈥� she adds. legal obligations, our team is robust. As our organization evolves, we seek additional talents to bolster our efforts in economic development and immigration services. Together, we navigate challenges and envision a brighter future for our community.鈥�

Economic inclusion serves as a cornerstone of Centro CHA鈥檚 work. Recognizing the Latino community鈥檚 systemic barriers, Centro CHA tirelessly advocates for equitable access to resources and opportunities. For them, creating a more just and equitable Long Beach is not just a goal鈥攊t鈥檚 a moral imperative ingrained in every aspect of their organization.

Quintana said leadership has been vital to the organization鈥檚 progress. 鈥淲e were very strategic in organizing a board aligned with our mission and vision, tapping into the wealth of expertise within our community鈥檚 strong leaders, many of whom grew up in Long Beach and rose to executive positions. It鈥檚 crucial to have leadership deeply connected to the community鈥檚 needs and aspirations,鈥� declares Quintana.

Centro CHA鈥檚 impact extends beyond its physical location; it reverberates throughout the city, shaping policies and attitudes toward economic and social justice. Through its team鈥檚 dedication and community leaders鈥� support, Centro CHA envisions a future where unemployment rates plummet, neighborhoods thrive, and every resident can reach their full potential.

鈥淭aking control of our future is exhilarating yet demanding,鈥� Quintana admits. 鈥淵et, for the first time, there鈥檚 widespread investment in our community鈥檚 needs. Advocacy, backed by data, is crucial. Our Latino Economic Impact Report revealed the overlooked contributions of our community, demanding overdue reinvestment,鈥� she adds.

The economic report isn鈥檛 just a compilation of data; it鈥檚 the cornerstone upon which Centro CHA designs its strategic programming, filling crucial voids in community services. Similarly, the organization鈥檚 dedication extends beyond its walls, as local government agencies and partners eagerly await this vital information to inform their initiatives.

鈥淎ddressing youth poverty is one of my imperatives,鈥� says Jessica, who grew up in Long Beach. 鈥淪chools lack the necessary pathways, and parental guidance is often limited. Leadership is vital in creating and engaging young minds in economic opportunities. Even above minimum wage, the current economy isn鈥檛 sufficient, exacerbating economic disparities among young people.鈥�

Through one-on-one relationships with case managers, youths benefit from a roadmap to success and the keys to unlocking their full potential. Whether preparing paperwork for GED courses or navigating financial aid options, Centro CHA is a steadfast companion on every step of the journey.

Similarly, for over two decades, Centro CHA has stood as a stalwart advocate for immigrant rights in the Greater Long Beach community, with a steadfast commitment to empowering its residents. In a world where immigrant rights are often challenged, Centro CHA is a testament to the power of compassion and collaboration in creating a brighter future for all. 鈥淭he key lies in vigilance, strategic connections, and clarity about our community鈥檚 needs,鈥� vows Quintana.

鈥淧romising relationships with local officials, educational institutions, and state entities signal progress. The pandemic exacerbated existing disparities, demanding innovation and intentional action. We must work together for positive change to prevent further marginalization of the Latino community in Long Beach. We can and must deliver the opportunity of a promising future for all.鈥�

鈥淗ispanic Heritage Month is a time to acknowledge Latinos鈥� remarkable impact in shaping our nation. From the workforce to the arts, education to business, our community continues to enrich America鈥檚 tapestry with our hard work, creativity, and resilience,鈥� said Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO of SER National.

Latinos play a significant role daily in many industries, from construction and agriculture to healthcare and education. The SER Network of Affiliates is honored to help shape Latino entrepreneurs, innovators, and cultural leaders who are leaving indelible marks on this country. Our stories are those of determination, perseverance, and success, and they illustrate how diversity strengthens and enriches our nation.

The growth and influence of the Hispanic community have been reflected not only in numbers but also in the profound impact Latinos have made across multiple sectors. Latino artists continue to shine in the world of culture and art, with recent exhibitions and performances drawing attention to the vibrant stories that shape our experiences. From Hollywood to the music charts, Latino voices lead movements and shape narratives that resonate across generations. In education, Latinos advance as leaders and scholars, breaking barriers and lifting future generations to pursue their dreams.

Business, too, is thriving with Latino entrepreneurs, whose start-ups and enterprises contribute immensely to the nation鈥檚 economic vitality. The successes of Latino-owned businesses demonstrate the hard work and innovative spirit that fuel growth and opportunity across the U.S.

Hispanic Heritage Month originated in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson. In 1988, President Ronald Reagan expanded it to the month-long observance we 欧美丝袜内射 today. This period was chosen because it coincides with the independence anniversaries of many Latin American countries. Over the years, it has grown into an annual national celebration of Latinos鈥� enduring contributions to the United States.

鈥淎merica is made stronger by the diversity of its people, and Hispanic Heritage Month is a beautiful reminder of how our differences, when embraced, make this country a more vibrant and resilient place,鈥� Salazar added. 鈥淭his month is an opportunity to honor the shared values of hard work, community, and family at the heart of the Hispanic experience.鈥�

As we mark this occasion, we invite every American to participate in the celebrations. Hispanic Heritage Month is a time of beauty, joy, and excitement鈥攁 time to reflect on the shared values that unite us all as a nation. SER National encourages everyone to embrace the spirit of this month and 欧美丝袜内射 the richness of our cultures, knowing that in America, everyone鈥檚 voice and contributions genuinely matter.

鈥淪ER National and the SER Network of Affiliates proudly join our nation in acknowledging our country鈥檚 dedicated men and women whose labor is making America stronger and more dynamic than ever,鈥� says Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO. 鈥淲e are a resilient workforce together and globally competitive because of our training and skills in every industry and technology. Continuing to invest in our workforce is to invest in the strength of the United States.鈥�

This year鈥檚 theme underscores a vital truth: America鈥檚 strength comes from its diversity. Generation after generation, immigrants worldwide, past and present, have come to these shores to pursue the American Dream, bringing skills, determination, and a commitment to building a better future. Today, all communities are integral to this incredible story, contributing to every aspect of American life and industry. As we 欧美丝袜内射 Labor Day, we also 欧美丝袜内射 the unique spirit of inclusion, innovation, and hard work that defines us as a nation.

The country鈥檚 multicultural workforce has been a cornerstone of America鈥檚 economic success, representing a significant and growing segment of our nation鈥檚 labor force. Latinos, Blacks, and Asians represent an ever-growing segment of the U.S. labor market, projected to exceed 50% by 2060. This growth is a testament to their communities鈥� work ethic, adaptability, and commitment to excellence across all industries鈥攆rom healthcare and education to technology and construction.

Moreover, all workers are needed to sustain and expand the U.S. economy. They are the backbone of many critical sectors and drive innovation, productivity, and economic growth鈥攖hat trend will increase significantly in the coming decades. As the demand for skilled workers continues to rise, especially in high-growth fields like technology, healthcare, and green energy, a well-prepared, trained, and experienced workforce has never been more critical.

The future of America鈥檚 prosperity depends on its ability to harness the talents and skills of all its workers. A prepared workforce is necessary and a strategic advantage in the global economy. As we face a forecasted need for millions of new workers in the next few decades, ensuring that we have a workforce that is educated, trained, and ready to meet the demands of tomorrow is crucial. This is why investing in workforce development is investing in America鈥檚 future.

鈥淟abor Day gives our country a chance to pause and thank the hard work of generations of Americans for their sweat and sacrifice that has made ours the greatest economy in the world. May we be mindful of the blessing that our strength comes from our daily unity at our places of work, where we find common purpose in our service to others. Congratulations to the hard-working people of the United States and Puerto Rico, and Happy Labor Day.鈥�

鈥淢uch of our community鈥檚 resilience stems from a shared struggle to nurture what exists today,鈥� says Juan Ramos, Executive Director. 鈥淧uerto Ricans, alongside other communities like Dominicans and Mexicans, opened doors and forged bonds. Despite
our diverse origins, unity became our strength. When faced with challenges, we rallied together, fighting for our identity and representation. In time and through initiatives like our community art gallery, we have come to 欧美丝袜内射 our heritage, ensuring our
story endures and inspiring the present and future generations,鈥� adds Ramos.

With only a handful of volunteers and minimal staff, they took on the monumental task of rebuilding their beloved Southside community. Their vision was clear: reclaiming control over their housing and future. It was a fight not just for physical buildings but for the very soul of their neighborhood.

鈥淕rowing up in a struggling community, I witnessed firsthand the impact of gentrification and the challenges faced by seniors and victims of violence,鈥� recalls Ramos. 鈥淭oday, my personal experiences drive my commitment to this work. Our organization stands as a beacon of resistance against displacement. Despite our community鈥檚 transformation, we refuse to be priced out. We fight
to preserve our presence and advocate for our right to remain in our neighborhood.鈥�

Fast-forward 51 years, and the landscape
of Williamsburg has undergone a profound transformation. What was once an affordable haven has become a magnet for a burgeoning artistic community, driving up rents and leaving longtime residents struggling to make ends meet. In the face
of this gentrification tsunami, Los Sures is a bastion of hope and support for those in need. Ramos expresses gratitude for the vision and actions of earlier advocates. 鈥淗istory grounds us, anchoring our organization and me in this community鈥檚 journey,鈥� he states. 鈥淥ur predecessors鈥� resilience birthed our existence, providing a foundation of purpose. As torchbearers, we must advance their legacy, fostering resistance and guiding future leaders. We鈥檙e entrusted with empowering others and ensuring our community鈥檚
ongoing evolution. It鈥檚 a cycle of resilience and progress, a testament to our collective strength,鈥� he adds.

The organization has evolved to meet the changing needs of its community, offering a diverse array of resources and services. From affordable housing and tenant organizing to senior residential and recreation centers, a hydroponic farm, and a local food pantry, Los Sures is a lifeline for countless individuals and families facing economic hardship. At the core of its mission, the Real Estate
Development Department tirelessly acquires and develops low-income housing, breathing new life into neglected buildings. With over 5,000 units rehabilitated and constructed, they pave the way for affordable living, empowering local families to thrive.
Their funding sources, from governmental entities to financial institutions, underscore their dedication to accessible housing.

鈥淟os Sures faces unique challenges as a nonprofit management and development company. We lack the same opportunities as for-profit developers, and maintaining affordable housing becomes increasingly difficult with rising costs. Balancing affordability while covering expenses requires creativity and accessing subsidies for tenants. We鈥檝e learned that offering affordable housing
isn鈥檛 enough; wrap-around services are essential. Residents shouldn鈥檛 have to choose between basic
needs and housing.鈥�

Meanwhile, the Tenant and Community Organizing Departments form the backbone of grassroots advocacy, rallying residents
around vital issues. From tenants鈥� rights to civic engagement, these departments foster solidarity, ensuring that the voices of the South Side are heard. Through education and empowerment, they cultivate a sense of ownership and agency within the community.

In tandem, the Social Services Department offers a lifeline to those in need, employing a holistic, community-based approach. From individual case management to crisis intervention, they provide comprehensive support, guiding formerly homeless tenants toward stability. With its innovative Hydroponic Farm, the bustling Los Sures Food Pantry nourishes over 800 individuals monthly, addressing food insecurity at its root.

Amidst this tapestry of support, the Los Sures 鈥淒avid Santiago鈥� Senior Center stands as a vibrant hub of companionship and care. Here, eighty seniors find nourishment for both body and soul daily, enjoying hearty lunches and engaging in social recreation.
鈥淏eing recognized by a national organization of committed Latinos is an honor, acknowledging our agency鈥檚 efforts to empower our community. It underscores our unity and the importance of sharing opportunities and camaraderie among Latino leaders and organizations. This exchange of information fosters collective progress and strengthens our bonds.鈥�

United in purpose, the departments of Los Sures exemplify the transformative power of community-driven initiatives. Together, they weave a safety net of support, empowering residents to build brighter futures in the heart of Brooklyn鈥檚 South Side.

鈥淟ooking ahead, the next phase involves welcoming new community members and ensuring our developments cater to their needs,鈥�
says Ramos. 鈥淐ompleting projects like housing 94 low-income senior units with adequate social services is just the beginning. Our efforts in the next years will shape the legacy of Southside United for the next 51 years. Inspiring young leaders ensures our organization鈥檚 continued impact and relevance,鈥� he says.

MCIP is where dreams take flight, barriers are shattered, and lives are transformed for the betterment of oneself and the uplifting of all touched by its profound influence. Welcome to MCIP, where the journey of discovery knows no bounds. 鈥淥ur focus is on preparing young people to succeed in academics and to be leaders in their community,鈥� says Maria Tukeva, MCIP Founder. 鈥淭his also means becoming leaders in the quest for social justice, and we do this through providing them with educational experiences that help them become designers of their future,鈥� she adds.

The year was 1979 when a beacon of hope first emerged on the educational horizon 鈥� the inception of MCIP. Founded with a noble purpose, MCIP aimed to cater to the overlooked potentials of promising students, many of whom hailed from low-income backgrounds and belonged to linguistic minority groups. 鈥淔rom the beginning, we had a long-standing commitment to college and career success for not only Latino young people but all young people of color and that as a school and its associated foundation, they were and are today our number one priority,鈥� she says. Yet, Tukeva saw that these bright minds were slipping through the crevices of the SER America 路 Spring 2024 16efficient model where the school does instructional services during the day. MCIP does enhanced and extended instructional services after school through the evening. Our efficiency benefits every student because we have different grants that complement what the school does. It perfectly complements the instructional vision and the idea of 100% college attendance preparation and resilience. If college is not attainable, we endeavor 100% career viability, so no child is left behind.鈥� conventional public schooling system or had already been discarded from its confines. Maria identified many factors contributing to this educational exodus: an absence of cultural and linguistic sensitivity, systemic apathy, and a deficiency in teacher training and support. Moreover, low expectations existed for student achievement, inadequate curricular offerings, and a heavy reliance on punitive measures like suspensions and expulsions.

Maria saw a better way, and so did the community that joined her. To combat this educational injustice, they embarked on a journey over three decades ago, initially welcoming 40 students who had either been pushed out or had willingly dropped out of the District of Columbia public schools. By the close of a decade, in 1989, MCIP had blossomed into a full-fledged alternative school, serving a daily cohort of 600 students. This marked the genesis of BMHS 鈥� Bell Multicultural High School 鈥� born from the merger of MCIP鈥檚 core instructional program with the Bell Career Development Center.

Despite many challenges, MCIP surged forward, adapting its methodologies to meet the evolving needs of the BMHS student body. A significant milestone was reached in 2008 with the merger of BMHS and Lincoln Multicultural Middle School, giving rise to the Columbia Heights Educational Campus (CHEC), a groundbreaking institution spanning grades 6 through 12 鈥� a first in Washington D.C. history.

Along the way, Kapindi Kroma joined MCIP and helped Maria and the leadership team expand services to fulfill the mission. Today, he serves as Executive Director of MCIP. 鈥淥ur programs are run as an efficient model where the school does instructional services during the day. MCIP does enhanced and extended instructional services after school through the evening. Our efficiency benefits every student because we have different grants that complement what the school does. It perfectly complements the instructional vision and the idea of 100% college attendance preparation and resilience. If college is not attainable, we endeavor 100% career viability, so no child is left behind.鈥�

For Maria and Kapindi today, inclusiveness at MCIP is more than just a word. 鈥淥ne thing that we realized when students returned from the pandemic was that engagement was never what we wanted it to be,鈥� says Maria. 鈥淎fter the pandemic, it was even more challenging, and students had decided to do other things. So, we realized we had to change how we were doing things. We needed to know what they wanted, so we鈥檝e focused on student voice and choice over the past two years. We are incorporating what students wish to do in everything from the cafeteria food to the curriculum to how we do the master schedule for the day.鈥�

Kapindi echoes those sentiments and speaks of the strength that comes from a united effort. 鈥淰oice and choice are powerful, and the MCIP board has always had student representation. Our bylaws call for at least three student representatives. Now, the school is incorporating that voice and choice philosophy into its strategies and structures. We instill in all of our students that if they take the work seriously, there is nothing that they can鈥檛 do. This belief is why we have a delinquency intervention program plus targeted literacy intervention. During the school day, we ask struggling students to come to one-on-one sessions where they can counsel and instruct so they know we care and we鈥檙e here to help them succeed.鈥�

This union has broadened MCIP鈥檚 outreach and diversified its efforts to encompass middle school education. Today, MCIP stands as a beacon of educational equity, offering myriad evidence-based instructional and support services to bridge the achievement gap for the 1400 students and families comprising CHEC. MCIP continues to pave the path toward a brighter future for all through unwavering dedication and innovative approaches.

鈥淚t is wonderful that SER National recognizes MCIP, but mostly because that鈥檚 how we started,鈥� recalls Maria fondly. 鈥淲e would not be here if it weren鈥檛 for SER National. We go back to 1979 when I first worked on the proposal for the school with a team of people from SER National. Seeing how far this initiative has gone and can continue for many years is exciting and personally rewarding to experience,鈥� she adds.

Kapindi speaks of the ambitious opportunities beyond the horizon that MCIP is also working to realize. 鈥淲e are on a journey to create the nation鈥檚 first youth-run community development corporation, or CDC, where students come to school and learn the tools to solve problems within their community. Their education is no longer something that they must wait ten years to start applying. Now, reading makes sense, and math makes sense. So do negotiation debates and understanding contracts. All these types of things are relevant and important right now. When we create the CDC, it will be student led and a component to really refining public education that rarely ever changes.鈥�

What does Maria see ahead? The path is promising for her and closely linked to those who will help shape it. 鈥淚 see us becoming even more of a youth-oriented agency where we incorporate youth voices, not just like a little committee here and there, but everywhere because they are our future. I see us as an organization incorporating them into everything we do and create for tomorrow. What we can achieve is limitless and exciting.鈥�

鈥淎t SER National, we strive to instill in each of the more than one million stakeholders we serve every year that the greatest freedom is the privilege and opportunity to decide for themselves how they will fulfill their purpose in their lives and within society,鈥� says Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO. 鈥淥ur role is to inspire independence, explore their talents and skills, and help shape those into a new career, profession, trade, or business. The SER Network of Affiliates encourages its staff to 欧美丝袜内射 the core values each of them brings to the team. Together, they can achieve greater success. In the same way, July 4th reminds us we are greater together,鈥� he adds.

Another significant aspect of July 4th is the reminder that individual Americans can improve the workplace. Each person is instrumental in shaping the prosperous country we know today. We champion the standard workday, weekends off, paid vacations, and numerous other labor privileges each of us enjoy.

鈥淭his workplace landscape is bearing fruit at a record level,鈥� says Salazar. 鈥淎ccording to the latest data from the U.S. Bureau for Labor Statistics, three of every four women in America are working and earning money for themselves and their families. Meanwhile, the rate of men working is better than before the pandemic, or 86.4%,鈥� he adds.

This trend reflects our country鈥檚 resilience and the American spirit of adapting and overcoming challenges, which is as strong as ever. As we 欧美丝袜内射 this long weekend, let us recognize our achievements and the blessings they bring to our country. Yet, let us strive for even more workplace equity and equality.

鈥淚 would encourage everyone this July 4th to go out and enjoy their time with family and friends, mindful of how fortunate we are to work, live, and play in the USA,鈥� says Salazar. 鈥淢ay this holiday be a time to reach out to neighbors we may not know or make new friends in the spirit of a birthday where each of us plays an important role. SER National will continue to promote that spirit year-round so that every day is a new opportunity to be proud of being an American,鈥� he adds.

Happy Independence Day from SER National and the SER Network of Affiliates!

鈥淥n Juneteenth, SER National and the SER Network of Affiliates proudly 欧美丝袜内射 the diversity of our nation鈥檚 workforce,鈥� says Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO. 鈥淎lso, we acknowledge the individual skills, talents, experiences, and perspectives that we share when we can come together in whatever industry we choose. Yet, we can continue to have our identity and uniqueness as individuals. Yes, America may be a melting pot in many ways because unity of purpose strengthens us. However, having our personal daily preferences in food, music, clothing, and so many other aspects of our lives is also a freedom we enjoy in this country,鈥� he adds.

As Juneteenth festivities expanded beyond Texas, they symbolized resilience and cultural pride and reminded of the ongoing pursuit of racial justice and equality. The designation of Juneteenth as a federal holiday in 2021 was a significant acknowledgment of our nation鈥檚 journey and the work that remains.

Despite progress, disparities persist in the American workforce. Research by McKinsey & Company shows that Black employees face systemic challenges, including higher unemployment rates and wage gaps, particularly in transportation, healthcare, retail, and service industries. These findings underscore the importance of Juneteenth鈥檚 message in the modern workplace: the call for a society where every individual can thrive in their chosen field without prejudice.

Salazar further emphasizes the broader implications of Juneteenth: 鈥淎nother important truth of Juneteenth is that we are blessed with another opportunity to reflect upon the promise of America and ask ourselves what else can I do to make sure that every person is included in the fulfillment of that dream. Our workplace every day gives us each a new chance to interact with each other respectfully and with genuine appreciation, making it a safe and welcoming space for all. May Juneteenth 2024 be another step forward toward achieving that goal.鈥�

As we observe Juneteenth, let us honor the past while actively shaping a future where the workplace is a bastion of inclusivity, respect, and equal opportunity for all.

鈥淧ride month is a vibrant and joyous recognition of the LGBTQ+ community and their significant contributions to the nation鈥檚 economic strength and our society鈥檚 fabric,鈥� says Ignacio Salazar, President and CEO. 鈥淚t is a time to honor their resilience and to advocate for equality, acceptance, and human rights, especially in our workforce, where we can each make meaningful contributions,鈥� he adds.

One of the best ways to participate in Pride Month is to attend events and encourage conversations in a spirit of learning and appreciation for everyone. These gatherings show solidarity and are an opportunity to be immersed in a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. Americans can 欧美丝袜内射 diversity and focus on the positive ways to share in our country鈥檚 promise for all.

鈥淓ducating ourselves is another important aspect of Pride Month,鈥� says Salazar. 鈥淪ER National respects the important history and ongoing struggles of the LGBTQ+ community among the more than one million people we serve yearly and in our SER family of team members. We can each foster greater understanding and empathy to help promote safer and more inclusive workplaces. This atmosphere generates more cohesive and productive teams working in harmony,鈥� adds Salazar.

Supporting LGBTQ+ organizations and advocacy are two other meaningful ways to contribute. Donations to organizations that champion equality and provide vital support can make a significant impact. Volunteering our time or skills can also uplift and empower LGBTQ+ individuals. Being an advocate means standing up for what is right in our community and beyond.

鈥淎t SER National and the SER Network of Affiliates, we are dedicated to being strong supporters of ALL values of respect and affirmation of all individuals,鈥� says Salazar. 鈥淥ur programs and services across America and Puerto Rico are extended to people of all identities and within our staff at all levels. This commitment reflects the importance of embracing diversity and fostering a genuinely inclusive environment where everyone can thrive,鈥� he adds.

May we 欧美丝袜内射 Pride Month through uplifting messages on social media, amplifying stories, and being beacons of love and respect related to rights and acceptance. Let us help make our country an example for the world as a land of inclusivity founded on the principles that every individual has the God-given right to exist and realize their full potential in safety, peace, and happiness. Happy Pride Month 2024!