But we weren't always La Plaza. In 2004 the Hispanic Education Center, Fiesta Indianapolis and El Centro Hispano chose to merge. Their merger formed La Plaza; a bringing together of all these separate resources and services into one organization to provide better support.

La Plaza has devoted an extensive amount of time and resources to solidifying its new structure by implementing a strategic plan which has guided us in making decisions required for the short term and the long term; a comprehensive development plan, which addresses how La Plaza will secure the resources it needs annually for its current work; a technology plan, which guarantees that La Plaza is using the data systems and technological capacities of the three merged organizations in the most effective and efficient way; and an initial overview of the needs of the Hispanic/Latino community.

La Plaza is under the guidance, support and leadership of a Board of Directors, including a 21-member cross-section of Latino and non-Latino leaders; an Advisory Council, which is composed of top area executives and civic leaders; and a Community Council. The Community Council is currently in its formation stage but will ultimately assist in identifying and prioritizing the needs in the Hispanic/Latino community and give guidance for addressing needs once they are identified.

Our professional staff is led by Executive Director, Miriam Acevedo Davis. She leads a small team of deeply dedicated-people, who effectively work together to deliver programming, administer services, assist in resource development and act as a liaison and information source to the wider community on issues affecting Latinos.

Because of its investment of time and resources in successfully completing the merger of its partner agencies, La Plaza has emerged as a stronger, more unified organization.

• Serves more than 7,000 Latinos annually by providing families with access to essential, health and social services and educational programs
• Provides opportunities for over 35,000 people annually to build understanding and appreciation of the Latino community through participation in a wide variety of cultural activities.