For more than 30 years the Hispanic American Council — a non-profit, community organization has sought to serve the Latino community in the greater Kalamazoo area. As a liaison between potential clients and service agencies, the Council seeks to meet the needs of a special population often hindered by language barriers, cultural differences, and unfamiliarity with service agencies and institutions.

Through the programs and services offered, the goal of the Council is to assist Hispanics in attaining self-sufficiency and a higher level of social and economic well-being.  The Council also strives to nourish and encourage the diverse cultural heritage of the Hispanic population.

The Hispanic American Council has been advocating and providing culturally sensitive services for Hispanics since 1981. In the early 1970’s, a group of Hispanics affiliated with St. Joseph’s Catholic Church met regularly to recite the rosary and discuss issues affecting the Hispanic community.