Latin@x Services 20th Anniversary Celebration on October 12th
By Gus Hernandez
You’re invited! On October 12, 2024, The San Diego LGBT Community Center will host a spectacular celebration to mark the 20th anniversary of Latin@x Services at The Center, and all are welcome! This “VEINTEAÑERA” promises to be an unforgettable evening filled with joy, music, and comunidad. As we gather to honor two decades of service, celebrate the vibrancy and resilience of our Latin@x LGBTQ community!
A Night of Musica, Baile, and Celebracion
The festivities will kick off at 5 p.m. at The Center’s Auditorium, located at 3909 Centre Street, San Diego. This free community event is open to all ages and will feature live music by Banda Paso de Tecuala and Mariachi Dinastia, and a beautiful performance by Ballet Folklorico en Aztlan! There will be something for everyone to enjoy. The evening will be a lively celebration of Latin@x culture, with plenty of opportunities to dance and connect with friends old and new.
Delicious Food and Refreshments
No celebration is complete without delicious food and drinks, and the 20th Anniversary Celebration of Latin@x Services will not disappoint. Attendees can look forward to complimentary food and beverages, offering a taste of the rich culinary traditions that are an integral part of Latin@x culture. From savory dishes to sweet treats, there will be something to satisfy every palate.
Honoring Our Community Heroes
As we celebrate this significant milestone, we also take the time to honor the individuals and organizations that have made Latin@x Services at The Center possible. Over the past 20 years, countless community members have contributed their time, energy, and resources to support and uplift the Latin@x LGBTQ community. This event is a tribute to their dedication and a reminder of the power of community.
At this event, The Center will establish the Larry Baza Award and the Aida Mancillas Award in honor of two trailblazing community leaders who were instrumental in the formative years of Latin@x Services.
Support Latin@x Services
While the 20th Anniversary Celebration is free to attend, we encourage those who are able to consider supporting Latin@x Services at The Center. There are several ways to contribute, including becoming a monthly donor or making a one-time gift. Your support helps ensure that we can continue to provide vital services and programs to the Latin@x LGBTQ community for years to come. Join our $20 per month campaign to celebrate the 20th Anniversary for one year or as long as you’d like!
RSVP for Free
To ensure there is enough food and drinks for everyone, please RSVP for the event by visiting thecentersd.org/ls20. If you have any questions or need further information, feel free to contact us at latinos@thecentersd.org.
Sponsorship Opportunities
There are also sponsorship opportunities for those who wish to support the event at a higher level. Sponsorships help us cover the costs of the celebration and ensure that we can continue to provide high-quality services to the community. Please contact Ian Johnson at ijohnson@thecentersd.org for more information.
Looking Back: 20 Years of Impact
As we prepare to celebrate this milestone, it’s important to reflect on the impact that Latin@x Services has had over the past two decades. Since its inception, The Center has provided a safe and welcoming space for Latin@x LGBTQ+ people, offering a range of services from health and wellness programs to cultural events and advocacy efforts. The success of Latin@x Services is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, volunteers, and community partners.
A Vision for the Future
While we celebrate our past achievements, we also look to the future with hope and determination. The needs of the Latin@x LGBTQ community continue to evolve, and The Center is committed to adapting and expanding our services to meet those needs. With your support, we can continue to make a positive impact and ensure that every member of our community has access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
Join the Celebration
Mark your calendars for October 12, 2024, and get ready for an evening of celebration, connection, and community. We can’t wait to celebrate with you and honor the incredible journey of Latin@x Services at The Center. Together, we can make this a night to remember and set the stage for another 20 years of success and impact.
Thank You for Your Support
Thank you to everyone who has supported Latin@x Services over the past 20 years. Your contributions have made a difference in the lives of countless individuals, and we are grateful for your continued support. Here’s to many more years of community, connection, and celebration!
For more information and to RSVP, visit thecentersd.org/ls20. We look forward to seeing you there!