THE MUNICIPAL BEST PRACTICES FOR THE HISPANIC COMMUNITY SURVEY

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THE MUNICIPAL BEST PRACTICES FOR THE HISPANIC COMMUNITY SURVEY

THE INTERNATIONAL HISPANIC NETWORK A PURPOSE – AN OBJECTIVE

In conjunction with promoting professional excellence among Hispanic government officials, executives, and public managers within local government, the International Hispanic Network (IHN) serves to improve the management of local government(s), with a special emphasis given to the management of communities with ever-increasing Hispanic populations. In this effort

of advancing the education and training of Hispanics in local government administration(s), the IHN also makes available unique resources to local Hispanic government executives and public managers. As part of these goals, the IHN actively recruits Hispanic youth to public administration and public service.

THE INTERNATIONAL HISPANIC NETWORK MAKING THE NECESSARY PROVISIONS

Despite the growing number of Hispanics in this country, very few are rising to the top level of city management. Minority majority city councils have looked for and will continue to seek qualified, professionally trained city managers and other public administrators, individuals who are proficient in the advancement of their respective fields and mirror their representative populations. More needs to be done to facilitate the transition of qualified Hispanic managers and those capable of leadership positions.

In an effort to continue its objectives and the advancement goals specific to Hispanic public administrators serving in cities and counties, the IHN is proud to make available to its members the Municipal Best Practices for the Hispanic Community Survey. Commissioned by the IHN, funded by a grant from the Anne E. Casey Foundation, and written by Dr. Abraham David Benavides of the University of North Texas, the survey supports and embraces the mission and principles associated with the IHN, thus serving to provide for the professional needs of Hispanic and non-minority representatives working within city government(s) and municipalities.

THE INTERNATIONAL HISPANIC NETWORKTHE MUNICIPAL BEST PRACTICES FOR THE HISPANIC COMMUNITY SURVEY

It is projected that by 2020, the Hispanic population will nearly double to 60 million, a substantial growth considering the 2003 Census Bureau’s report that the U.S. Hispanic population had grown to 37 million, marking it as the largest minority group in the U.S.

Appreciating this projection, it will become imperative that local government(s), and the Hispanic professionals serving within them, learn how to adapt and service a population that is not only linguistically and culturally diverse, but as a group, becoming older, more politically

active, and more influential. As this demographic transformation continues, issues pertaining to the Hispanic population will make themselves known at local and national levels. Aware that service level gaps currently exist regarding growing communities, the IHN has made possible a survey that will provide information and potential solutions to the many communities facing increasing Hispanic populations.

EXECUTIVE SUMMARYTHE MUNICIPAL BEST PRACTICES FORTHE HISPANIC COMMUNITY SURVEY

The Census Bureau recently reported that the Hispanic population is currently the largest minority group in the U.S. As this trend continues, a need for public administration representation within city halls will be indispensable. Municipalities will need to learn how to serve this growing segment of the population.

The Municipal Best Practices for the Hispanic Community Survey provides needed research in this area. The survey was sent to city managers whose population was 12% Hispanic or more and Hispanic city managers. One-hundred-sixty-one surveys were returned for a 31% response rate. The survey covered basic areas including access to local government services, housing, children and youth, seniors and families, personal safety, the needs of low-income children and families, and immigrants. Additionally, a section was devoted to

best practices. With this, a detailed description of each section is included with tables and graphs providing support.

Although at the national level there appears to be an anti-immigration sentiment that affects all Hispanics, regardless of their legal status, at the local level, governments are making an effort to serve all their residents. The results of the survey indicate that steps are being taken to provide services. However, many local governments lack information on how to address specific needs of the Hispanic community as well as the tools to provide the additional services that are challenging many cities in the U.S. The information provided in the survey attempts to fill this gap with innovative ideas and solutions.

THE IHN PROVIDES FOR REAL AND ACTUAL

FOUNDATIONS FROM WHICH THE RECRUITMENT OF

HISPANIC YOUTH TO PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND PUBLIC SERVICE BECOMES A REALITY.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Section I: Connecting

Section II: Homeowners

Section: III: Partnerships

Section IV: Wellbeing

Section V: Support

Section VI: Assisting

Section VII: Cities and Programs

Conducting a needs assessment is a critical first step in addressing any new situation. It serves to explore what is being done, what can be achieved, and identifies gaps in service delivery.• A mere 24% of the cities surveyed have undergone this first step and have a better understanding of how to serve the Hispanic community.• As needs assessments are performed, cities will be able to adapt to the changing demographic and cultural transformations occurring.• Crucial to service delivery is an understanding by municipal employees of the growing Hispanic population and its unique potential needs. An immediate impact cities can have as they serve their residents involves the city’s workforce.

Crucial to meeting the demands of an ever-growing Hispanic population and workforce is the availability of training to city employees. • 46.6% of cities surveyed make this kind of provision.• 64% of the cities indicated that creative approaches have been designed to reach culturally and linguistically diverse communities.• A key first step in delivering information about city services and educating new residents about civic responsibilities is providing interpretation and translation type services to Hispanic residents in the community.

Another innovative approach to serving culturally and linguistically diverse communities is becoming involved in local and national Hispanic organizations. • 87% of the cities surveyed have Hispanic citizens serving on advisory councils, boards, committees, and or commissions.• City employees remain connected to the Hispanic community through efforts such as these.

Hispanics Are The Majority In Our City

Strongly Disagree

13%

Disagree39.8%

Neutral17.4%

Don’t Know6.2%

Strongly Agree4.3%

Agree19.3%

Municipalities Provided Employees With Training

Disagree orStronglyDisagree

25.4%

Neutral26.1%

Agree or StronglyAgree46.6%

Don’t Know1.9%

City Representatives Are Members of Hispanic Organizations

StronglyDisagree

10%

Disagree27.3%

Neutral13%

Agree31.7%

StronglyAgree14.3%

Don’t Know 3.7%

A NEEDS ASSESSMENT

MUNICIPALITIES PROVIDING TRAINING

Enhancing Access to Local Government Services

MEMBERSHIP IN HISPANIC ORGANIZATIONS

SECTION I


87% OF THE CITIES SURVEYED HAVE HISPANIC

CITIZENS SERVING ON ADVISORY COUNCILS,

BOARDS, COMMITTEES, AND OR COMMISSIONS.

COLLABORATING WITH OTHER AGENCIES

COMPENSATION FOR BILINGUAL EMPLOYEES

CITIES REACHING OUT FOR IMPROVEMENT


HISPANICS AND WHAT HAPPENS AT CITY HALL

Findings indicate a willingness on the part of those surveyed to network and find solutions to the challenges involved in serving the Hispanic community.• 69% work with other government agencies as well as community and faith-based organizations to provide outreach services to Hispanics.• 64% feel there should be more accessibility to best practices and specialized assistance.

As part of further innovations to serve culturally and linguistically diverse communities, cities are attempting to provide additional compensation to bilingual employees.• Sixty cities are currently participating in such programs.• Eighty-four citiaes, however, do not participate.

Cities are interested in obtaining information on how to best serve their growing Hispanic communities, demonstrating that cities are in fact willing to improve their current services. • 44% of the cities surveyed have contacted other cities for information pertaining to how best to serve the Hispanic community.

Hispanics feel they have a stake in what happens at city hall. They are concerned about local events and the impact on their community.• 73% of the respondents agreed or strongly agreed that Hispanics are participating and engaged in the process of local government.

StronglyAgree18%

Agree51%

Neutral16.8%

Disagree9.3%

Strongly Disagree3.7%

The City Collaborates with Other Government Agencies to Provide Service

Additional Compensation for Bilingual Employees

StronglyDisagree

17.3

Don’t Know2.5%

StronglyAgree18%

Agree19.3%

Neutral8.1%

Disagree34.8%

Other Cities have been Contacted for Information

Disagree or StronglyDisagree

26.1%

Neutral23.6%

Agree orStronglyAgree44.1%

Don’t Know6.2%

StronglyAgree23%

Don’tKnow9.3%

StronglyDisagree

3.2%

Disagree13%

Neutral18%

Agree33.5%

Hispanics Feel They Have a Stake in What Happens in City Hall

Don’t Know1.2%73% STRONGLY AGREED THAT

HISPANICS ARE PARTICIPATING AND ENGAGED IN THE PROCESS

OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT.

POLICIES PROMOTING HOME OWNERSHIP

INCREASING HISPANIC HOMEOWNERSHIP

Promoting Homeownership

PROVIDING WORKSHOPS AND HOME BUYING COUSELING

SECTION II


Although there is some involvement by the federal, state, and local levels of government when it comes to housing within the U.S., it remains mostly the individual’s personal matter.• While 23% of respondents to the survey do have some type of policies promoting home ownership among Hispanics, 48% indicated they do not.

More cities have some type of homeownership program in place than actually have a formal policy. However, no clear indication is given in support of home ownership programs because an equal number of cities are currently not involved in any programs.• 39% of the cities are currently involved in some type of program while 38% are not.

In terms of “how to buy a house” workshops and other home buying counseling, half the cities in the survey are involved in some manner while the other half are not. • 43% of the cities offer some type of program while 42% do not.

The City Has Policies Promoting Home Ownership


Neutral24.2%


48.5%

Don’t Know14.3%

The City Has Current Efforts To Increase Hispanic Home Ownership

StronglyAgree9.9%

Agree29.2%

Neutral19.9%

Disagree32.9%

Strongly Disagree5%

Don’t Know3.1%

Workshops And Other Home Buying Counseling is Provided

StronglyDisagree

7.5%

Disagree34.2%

Neutral13%

Agree29.2%

StronglyAgree13.7%

Don’t Know2.4%

48% OF LOW-INCOME HOMEOWNERS HAVE

ACCESS TO CITY PROGRAMS SUCH AS TAX EXEMPTIONS, SUBSIDIES OR GRANTS TO REDUCE

PROPERY TAX.

AFFORDABILITY TO LOW-INCOME HOMEOWNERS

ASSURING NO DISCRIMINATORY PRACTICES

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Tax exempt type programs or tax credits should be encouraged so that housing can become even more affordable to low-income Hispanic families.• While 48% of low-income homeowners have access to city programs such as tax exemptions, subsidies or grants to reduce property taxes, 60% of the cities surveyed do not provide shelters for those unable to afford adequate housing without some assistance.

Although 50% of the municipalities do not have ordinances requiring developers to build moderately priced dwelling units in new subdivisions, mixed neighborhoods remain a common feature and add value and diversity to communities. • 63% agree that their city partners with non-profits or housing authorities to assure there is no redlining or racial steering within the city.

Low Income Homeowners Have Access To Tax Exemptions

StronglyAgree18%

StronglyDisagree

7.5%

Don’tKnow6.2%

Disagree27.3%

Neutral10.6%

Agree30.4%

City Partners with others to AssureNo Discriminatory Practices

StronglyAgree21.1%

Don’t Know3.7% Strongly Disagree

4.4%

Disagree10.6%

Neutral18%

Agree42.2%

INTERNATIONAL HISPANIC NETWORK | MUNICIPAL BEST PRACTICES FOR THE HISPANIC COMMUNITY SURVEY | 13

63% AGREE THAT

THEIR CITY PARTNERS

WITH NON-PROFITS OR

HOUSING AUTHORITIES

TO ASSURE THERE IS NO

REDLINING OR RACIAL STEERING

WITHIN THE CITY.

60% OF THE CITIES SURVEYED DO NOT PROVIDE SHELTERS FOR THOSE UABLE

TO AFFORD HOUSING.

AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS FOR LOW-INCOME CHILDREN

PUBLIC LIBRARIES AND PROGRAMS FOR HISPANIC CHILDREN

Schools, Children, and Transportation

PARTNERSHIPS WITH SCHOOL DISTRICTS FOR TRANSPORTATION

SECTION III


Individuals with authority and resources are taking responsibility toward assuring programs for at-risk children, including Hispanics. However, 37% of cities do not offer or support childcare for at-risk Hispanic children.• 69% surveyed offer after school programs providing components such as sports, cultural, academics, arts, and dance.

In their attempt to best support at-risk children, the public libraries offer special programs for Hispanic children.• 52% of the cities surveyed agreed that their libraries offer special programs.• 19% were not aware of any programs.

Although typically plagued with varying issues, a majority of those surveyed indicated that various types of partnerships exist between local school districts and municipalities. However, these partnerships do not necessarily exist for the transportation of students.• 46% surveyed concluded that no special relationships exist.

CITY PARTNERSHIP AGREEMENTS WITH HOSPITAL OR CLINICS

It is not common for a city to own and operate hospitals and other types of medical facilities. Most social services are delivered through county governments.• 43% of the cities do not have partnerships or agreements to assist low-income families.• 47% do not participate in Hispanic Wellness Fairs.

The City Offers After School Programs for Low Income Children

StronglyAgree30.4%

Agree38.5%

Neutral10%

Disagree12%


Don’t Know1.9%

Public Libraries Offer Special Programs for Hispanic Children

StronglyAgree17.4%

Don’t Know18.6%

StronglyDisagree

2.5%

Disagree8.1%

Neutral19.2%

Agree34.2%

The City has Partnerships With School Districts for Transportation

StronglyAgree10.6%

Agree18%

Neutral18.6%

Disagree38.5%

StronglyDisagree

7.5%

Don’tKnow6.8%

The City has Partnership Agreements with Hospitals or Medical Clinics


43.5%

Neutral19.3%

Agree orStrongly

agree28.6%

Don’t Know8.6%

SENIOR-BASED SERVICES FOR THE HISPANIC ELDERLY

As the population ages, senior services providing a wide range of activities for seniors, regardless of ethnicity, will increase in importance for cities and communities. • 41% offer some type of services for the Hispanic elderly.

DISSEMINATING GENERAL INFORMATION

PROMOTING ETHNIC CULTURES


An important first step in providing services to a diverse community is publicizing the services available.• 70% disseminate materials such as available health care, housing, parks and recreation, health fairs, work sites, and churches.

One of the most common ways cities reach-out to the Hispanic community is by sponsoring or organizing family events that promote various ethnic cultures, events whose purpose and intent it is to build bridges and foster understanding.• 73% of those surveyed indicated that some cultural events took place.

The City Offers Senior Based Services for the Hispanic Elderly

Agree28%

StronglyAgree14.3%

Don’t Know6.8% Strongly

Disagree8.1%

Disagree20.5%

Neutral23.6%

The City Operates a Senior Center

Don’t Know1.3% Strongly Disagree

3.7%

Disagree19.3%

Neutral6.2%

Agree30.4%

StronglyAgree39.1%

The City Disseminates General Information at Community Locations

Don’t Know.6%

StronglyAgree20.5%


Disagree12.4%

Neutral13%

Agree49.8%

The City Sponsors Family Events to Promote Ethnic Cultures

Agree orStrongly

agree73.4%

Don’t Know1.2%


15.5%

Neutral9.9%

73% STRONGLY AGREE THAT THE

CITY SPONSORS FAMILY EVENTS TO PROMOTE ETHNIC

CULTURES.

POLICING THE COMMUNITY AND LANGUAGE BARRIERS

AVAILABILITY OF EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS MATERIALS

The Wellbeing of theHispanic Community

CLOSING THE LANGUAGE BARRIER GAP BETWEEN THE COURTS AND HISPANICS

SECTION IV


Language barriers exist in police departments, affecting relationships with Hispanics. This will continue to be a critical roadblock in establishing community policing efforts within Hispanic communities.• 71% of police officers do not speak Spanish.

Ongoing efforts by cities to provide emergency preparedness materials in languages other than English are commendable.• 62% indicated that emergency preparedness materials are available in a variety of languages.

Justice and fairness are evident when all parties involved understand clearly the proceedings before them. • 86% of cities have municipal court interpreters to assist in the judicial process.• 15% of the respondents remained neutral regarding this matter while 11% did not know if a language barrier existed.

PARTICIPATION IN COMMUNITY ORIENTED POLICING

One aspect of community policing is to conduct activities with residents, including the introduction of domestic violence prevention and intervention programs. Efforts like these help build relationships between residents and police officers and ultimately reduce crime.• 87% of cities have some type of program in place.• 83% of respondents indicated that there has not been an increase in racially motivated crimes in their communities.

Police Officers Speak Spanish

Don’t Know.6%

SpeakSpanish21.2%

Neutral6.8%

Do Not Speak Spanish71.4%

Emergency Preparedness Materials are Available in Spanish


Don’t Know12.4%

Neutral12.4%


13.7%

A Language Barrier Exists Between Hispanic Residents and the Court System

StronglyAgree3.7%

Agree14.3%

Neutral14.9%

Disagree37.3%

StronglyDisagree

18.6%

Don’t Know11.2%

The City Participates in Community Oriented Policing

StronglyAgree38%

Don’t Know1.9%

Strongly Disagree

1.9%Disagree

1.9%

Neutral7.3%

Agree51.6%


AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS AND THE SAFE NEIGHBORHOOD

COLLECTING RACIAL PROFILING DATA

Various types of after school prevention programs are an important component or tool toward policing within the Hispanic community. The growing trend toward preventing gang activities within these communities is the early intervention of relevant after-school programs for the Hispanic youth rather than addressing behavioral problems later.• 57% of the cities have an early-age gang prevention program.

Appropriate measures are taken to collect and analyze profiling data. These measures require some municipalities to follow state regulations.• 58% of the cities have measures in place to achieve this task.

THE U.S. CITIZENSHIP & IMMIGRATION SERVICECOLLABORATIVE WITH POLICE DEPARTMENTS

The current climate involving undocumented immigration and the federal agency dealing with the criminal activity of foreign nationals is a relationship shared between police departments and the U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Service.• Fifty-six cities surveyed did not know if such an agreement existed.

The City Has an Early-Age Gang Prevention Program

StronglyAgree18.6%

Don’t Know8.1%

StronglyDisagree

3.1%

Disagree18%

Neutral13.7%Agree

38.5%

The City Police Department Appropriately Collects Racial Profiling Data

StronglyAgree17.4%

Don’t Know10%

StronglyDisagree

3.1%

Disagree13%

Neutral16.1%Agree

40.4%

The Police Departments & The U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Service Collaborate

Don’t Know34.8%

StronglyDisagree

6.2%

Disagree18%

Neutral13.6%

Agree19.9%

StronglyAgree7.5%

71% OF THE POLICE OFFICERS POLLED DO NOT SPEAK SPANISH.

THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN POLICE

DEPARTMENTS AND THE U.S. CITIZENSHIP & IMMIGRATION SERVICE

IS REAL.

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Part of the fundamental theory underlying community policing requires the police understanding both the residents within the community and fostering relationships with Hispanic community leaders.• 65% of the police officers are educated regarding the Hispanic culture.• 78% of city police officers have fostered relationships.

EDUCATING POLICE ON THE HISPANIC CULTURE

Police are Educated on the Hispanic Culture


Don’tKnow7.5%


10.6%

Neutral16.8%

The City has Relationships With Hispanic Leaders in the Community


Don’t Know1.9% Disagree or Strongly

Disagree6.2%

Neutral14.3%

65% OF CITY POLICE OFFICERS

ARE EDUCATED REGARDING THE

HISPANIC CULTURE.

Support for the Low-Income Family

SECTION V


UNITED WAY-TYPE ACTIVITIES SUPPORTED

Although cities have not traditionally provided direct substantive amounts of social services to residents, there is still a significant amount of support for the promotion of social service programs within the communities.• 84% indicated that their cities support United Way-type agencies.• The majority of the cities use Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) to address the needs of children.

CREDITS OR DISCOUNTS TO LOW-INCOME FAMILIES

MUNICIPALITIES PROHIBITING PANHANDLING

In terms of assistance from the cities toward credits or discounts to help low-income families address basic utilities, the numbers are minimal.• According to 52% of the city managers, their cities did not provide for assistance regarding electricity, natural gas, solid waste, water, recycling, or other services.

Due to an increasingly aggressive behavior by panhandlers and efforts by business lobbies within communities, both large cities and smaller communities have begun enacting laws or city ordinances prohibiting panhandling.• 58% agreed or strongly agreed that ordinances have been passed.

Municipality Supports United Way Type Activites


6.9%

Neutral8.6%

Agree orAgree

Strongly84.5%

CDBG Funds are Used to Address the Needs of Low Income Children


Don’t Know7.5%


11.8%

Neutral9.2%

City Gives Credits or Discounts to Low Income Families

Disagree41%

StronglyDisagree

11.2%

Don’tKnow6.8%

StronglyAgree4.3%

Agree22.4%

Neutral14.3%

The Municipality has Laws and Ordinances Prohibiting Panhandling

Agree44.7%

StronglyAgree13%

Don’t Know11.8%

StronglyDisagree

5.6%

Disagree16.8%

Neutral8.1%


FINANCIAL EDUCATION TO LOW-INCOME FAMILIES

An essential component toward promoting sustainability among low-income earners is a basic financial education, an education involving income tax requirement and participating in workshops underlining the importance of checking and savings accounts.• 45% indicated the city did not offer such assistance.

AVAILABLE WORKSHOPS ON THE EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT

COLLABORATING TO ASSIST LOW-INCOME FAMILIES

In terms of capacity building among low-income earners, applying for the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) is a necessity if local residents hope to create personal wealth and more disposable income.• While 31% of the cities provide workshops on how to apply for the EITC, 44% do not.• 37% of the cities sponsor workshops on how to access small business loans.

City and county collaboration toward supporting low-income families are beneficial to both entities of government as resources are combined to aid those in need.• Typically counties provide for the social services of their residents.• 56% of the cities surveyed engage in city/county collaborations.

City Offers Financial Education to Low Income Families

Agree24.2%

StronglyAgree8.1%

Don’tKnow6.8%

StronglyDisagree

7.5%

Disagree37.3%

Neutral16.1%

Workshops on the Earned Income Tax Credit are Available

Agree22.4%

StronglyAgree8.7%

Don’tKnow8% Strongly

Disagree9.3%

Disagree34.8%

Neutral16.8%

The City Sponsors Small Business Loan Workshops

Agree29.2%

StronglyAgree8.1%

Don’tKnow6.2%

Disagree35.4%

Neutral14.3%

StronglyDisagree

6.8%

The City and County Collaborate to Assist Low Income


Don’tKnow5.6% Disagree or

StronglyDisagree

19.9%

Neutral18.6%

45% INDICATED THAT THE CITY

DID NOT OFFER FINANCIAL HELP FOR EDUCATION.

ImmigrationSECTION VI


SERVICES OFFERED TO IMMIGRANTS

CITY GOVERNMENTS IN COMMUNICATION

DAY LABOR SITES

There are a variety of services and levels of assistance offered to both legal and illegal immigrants. They are, however, not as prevalent as many might expect.• Most cities do not offer English classes to immigrants.• 40% state they do not offer any services to immigrants.

E-government and providing information on city web sites has become an invaluable way for local government to communicate information to their residents.• 14% of the respondents indicated they had web sites available in Spanish while 78% responded they did not.

Another concern to local governments in terms of immigration are Day Labor Sites, an official or unofficial location where day laborers gather to seek employment and employers come to contract for services.• While 55% of the cities surveyed indicated they did not have Day Labor Sites, 30% indicated that they did.• 78% of the cities that have Day Labor Sites do not support the site financially.

LA MATRICULA CONSULAR AS A VALID FORM OF ID

The Mexican government, through its Mexican Consulates in the U.S., provides this ID card to Mexican Nationals for the purpose of identification. Many banks in the U.S. have accepted the ID card as a valid form of identification.• While 26% of the cities indicated they do accept La Matricula as a valid ID card, 35% did not know if their city accepted this form of identification.

The City Offers Services to Immigrants

Agree32.3%

Neutral19.3%

Disagree32.3%

StronglyDisagree

8.1%

Don’t Know4.3%

Strongly Agree3.7%

City Internet Web Site is Available in Spanish


Don’t Know2%


77.6%

Neutral6.2%

The City Has a Day Labor Site


Don’t Know5%


54.7%

Neutral9.9%

The City Recognizes La Matricula Consular as a Valid Form of ID

Don’t Know34.8%

StronglyDisagree

6.2%

Disagree14.3%

Neutral18.6%

Agree14.9%

StronglyAgree11.2%

SECTION IIV Cities and Programes

BEST PRACTICE CITIESIn the addendum to the report: “Municipal Best Practices for the Hispanic Community Survey,” several cities were identified as having progressive practices geared towards assisting the Hispanic community. Criteria used to determine what constitutes a best practice were: Successful over a period of time; innovative or groundbreaking; measurable results; consequential impact; and replicable. The following Best Practices are truly noteworthy for the contribution and impact they have had on Hispanics within their respective communities.


CITY: Alexandria, VirginiaPROGRAM: Hispanic Orientation and Education ProgramPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The primary component of the HOEP program is English-as-a-Second-Language instruction and promoting gradual and non-threatening acculturation assistance to Hispanics.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Facilitate the movement of Alexandria Hispanic residents into the American mainstream.PROGRAM RESULTS: Annually, over 400 participants receive basic ESL instruction, with more than 10% moving on to intermediate and advanced level ESL classes offered by the city’s schools.LESSONS LEARNED: By incorporating free ESL instruction, Hispanic Alexandrians have been introduced and connected to services and resources provided by the city and non-profit organizations.

CITY: Bell Gardens, CaliforniaPROGRAM: Academic No Interest LoanPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Offered by the city to college-bound students who are city residents is a no interest loan to pay for tuition and fees. Based upon an approximate student loan of $5,000 offered, students are required to pay back the loan and provide the city 10 hours of community service for every $1,000 received.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Make available an opportunity at higher education to college-bound students in the community.PROGRAM RESULTS: More residents are receiving a higher education, thereby providing more overall success to the community.LESSONS LEARNED: See contact information via the IHN website.

CITY: Chandler, ArizonaPROGRAM: Chandler’s Hispanic Heritage Months EventsPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Produce a series of special events to commemorate National Hispanic Heritage Month.Program Goal(s): Create awareness in the community of the many contributions made by Hispanics in the city.PROGRAM RESULTS: In addition to receiving positive media coverage in both English and Spanish during the month, thousands of people gain exposure to the various events.LESSONS LEARNED: Key to the success of so large an event is the involvement of the community at large, one that considers and is representative of people of all ages and cultures.

CITY: Clearwater, FloridaPROGRAM: Operation Apoyo HispanoPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: A community policing outreach of the police department, improving the relations with the Hispanic community through a Hispanic outreach partnership program.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Improve public safety and quality of life in the Hispanic community.PROGRAM RESULTS: Gained within the Hispanic community is an enhanced trust, cooperation, and quality of life.LESSONS LEARNED: See contact information via the IHN website.

CITY: Douglas, ArizonaPROGRAM: Summer Reading ProgramPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Focusing on students whose reading skills are below average, the library staff works with 20-30 children for 30 days and approximately 150-175 students each summer, students in grades 1-5.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Increase reading skills in the children.PROGRAM RESULTS: There is the real belief that City Staff have participated in assisting elementary school children with increasing their reading skills.LESSONS LEARNED: Important to begin the reading processes with children in grades 1-3.

CITY: Dalton, GeorgiaPROGRAM: Workforce Housing InitiativePROGRAM DESCRIPTION: In cooperation with La Raza and the University of Georgia, a position has been created to educate Spanish-speaking citizens about the home-buying process and better quality housing.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Educate, improve living standards, and motivate people toward ownership and single-family homes.PROGRAM RESULTS: Beyond improving living conditions for many families and offering hope of a better life to many more, we are quickly becoming a known and trusted component within the Latin community.LESSONS LEARNED: See contact information via the IHN website.

CITY: Elgin, IllinoisPROGRAM: Hispanic Outreach ProgramPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: As part of ensuring Hispanics have a voice on city matters affecting them, the program engages the Hispanic community as a viable partner with the city administration toward securing services and addressing policies.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Gain active membership in all Hispanic organizations in the city; stay in close contact with recognized Hispanic leaders; remain active in the planning of all Hispanic events in the city and; conduct honest evaluations of both the self and those the city serves. PROGRAM RESULTS: The city has received many honors as a result of the program. The city has also begun a Laotian outreach program because of the high number of Laotians settled in the area.LESSONS LEARNED: Understand the Hispanic community you are working within. Workers must be outgoing, bilingual, allowed to implement and design the program, not used for written translation, and not overly depended upon.

CITY: Lebanon, PennsylvaniaPROGRAM: Police Minority Relations CommitteePROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Monthly scheduled committee meetings are held and opened to the public. In most cases, speakers are present discussing topics related to understanding, communication, and available community resources.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Promote communication, education, understanding, and respect.PROGRAM RESULTS: While a recognized program, more participation and publicity is required.LESSONS LEARNED: See contact information via the IHN website.

CITY: Mesquite, NevadaPROGRAM: Ethnic Celebration EventPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: In order to highlight the Hispanic culture and celebrate different cultures within the community, the annual event combines festivities to include food, music, and games.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Foster respect and understanding.PROGRAM RESULTS: An enjoyable time for those in attendance.LESSONS LEARNED: See contact information via the IHN website.

CITY: Lake Geneva, WisconsinPROGRAM: City Manager OutreachPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The City Manager meets with Hispanics attending English classes at the local church and Latin Center. Made available to the Hispanics in attendance are printed directions in both English and Spanish to the City Manager’s office and various services and departments within the city of particular interest to the Hispanics.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Help the Hispanics in the community to acclimate and ensure they understand who and where to go for assistance.PROGRAM RESULTS: The program has been well received by the Hispanic population.LESSONS LEARNED: See contact information via the IHN website.

CITY: Newark, New JerseyPROGRAM: La Casa De Don Pedro, Inc.PROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The non-profit, community based organization, is geared toward providing for the well being of low and moderate-income families. More than twenty-two programs are provided, including counseling, child-care, education, job training, job placement, energy conservation, and community development.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Assist minorities in the breaking of the cycle of poverty via empowering tools.PROGRAM RESULTS: Continue to serve a diverse population of over 25,000 families annually.LESSONS LEARNED: Despite the level of assistance provided and the passion brought to the mission, the human struggle continues.


CITY: Seattle, WashingtonPROGRAM: Latino Advisory Council/Community LiaisonPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: For the purpose of bridging the communication gap between the police department and the Latino community, the Council meets with members of the police department, discussing concerns, issues, recommendations, needs, perspectives, and insights. The Latino liaison officer is a full-time position, with a staff person and Deputy Chief.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Help build lasting relationships between the Seattle Police Department and the communities.PROGRAM RESULTS: A reduction in Latino-youth related crime activity. Since the inception of the program, there have been no Latino related shootings. LESSONS LEARNED: See contact information via the IHN website.

CITY: Santa Barbara, CaliforniaPROGRAM: City Councils Meetings in SpanishPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: So that people interested in the matters discussed at City Council meetings can hear them in either English or Spanish, the council meetings are simultaneously translated into Spanish. Earphones are provided at the meetings for those whose first language is Spanish and desire to have the meeting translated for their comprehension.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Allow first language Spanish-speakers the same access to government and to city council meetings as English-speaking residents.PROGRAM RESULTS: There is a general satisfaction with the Spanish-speaking community and those English-speaking residents wishing to celebrate the Hispanic heritage.LESSONS LEARNED: See contact information via the IHN website.

CITY: Shelbyville, TennesseePROGRAM: El Centro LatinoPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: A non-profit organization, El Centro Latino is a program organized for charitable, religious, educational, scientific, and for purposes related to distributions to organizations qualifying as tax exempt.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Provide a center where community service organizations, service, or groups can provide services to the Hispanic and Latino population.PROGRAM RESULTS: The organization is currently struggling.LESSONS LEARNED: Though filled with good intentions, the organization lacks the strength in its board to move forward.

CITY: Santa Barbara, CaliforniaPROGRAM: Community CenterPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The Newhall Community Center provides Hispanic youth and families with a wide range of activities, including tutoring, boxing, art, dance, and adult classes.PROGRAM GOAL(S): To serve and respond to the needs of the Hispanic community and provide recreational and educational opportunities for low-income, high-risk youth.PROGRAM RESULTS: Since 1998, attendance has doubled, programs have increased over 60%, crime and gang involvement has diminished, families feel more empowered to get involved with the city, grades have improved by the attending youth, jobs have been obtained, and youth-to-youth role models have developed.LESSONS LEARNED: See contact information via the IHN website.

INTERNATIONAL HISPANIC NETWORK | MUNICIPAL BEST PRACTICES FOR THE HISPANIC COMMUNITY SURVEY | 33

CITY: Tempe, ArizonaPROGRAM: Tempe TardeadaPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: The Tempe Tardeada is the City of Tempe’s Hispanic Heritage Festival, a social dance/event that attempts to reenact the early days of the Hispanic settlers through the sharing of traditional music, dance, and food with the community. PROGRAM GOAL(S): To identify and recognize the Hispanic roots of Tempe and educate the community with a celebration of the Hispanic culture.PROGRAM RESULTS: The Hispanic population as a whole is able to share their heritage and educate the community.LESSONS LEARNED: See contact information via the IHN website.

CITY: Tucson, ArizonaPROGRAM: Casa Amparo/Brewster CenterPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: An emergency shelter for Hispanic women and their children escaping domestic violence. The facility provides a bilingual crisis line and safe shelter to victims of domestic violence 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. Beyond providing culturally sensitive shelter services, the center also offers transitional and permanent housing options with bilingual support services.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Provide a safe, nurturing environment for Hispanic women and their children experiencing domestic violence.PROGRAM RESULTS: The center operates at over 100% capacity and with a high satisfaction service rate. Survivors are better able to access safety, plan for their futures, and become more self-sufficient.LESSONS LEARNED: Providing culturally and linguistically competent services allows survivors to focus on what is most important. This equates to more success and more lives saved.

CITY: Tucson, ArizonaPROGRAM: Sin Violencia Ganaremos/Brewster CenterPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: A walk-in center for survivors of domestic violence, the program provides comprehensive bilingual/bicultural services. Services include crisis intervention, legal advocacy, domestic violence education, immigration assistance, child advocacy, and safety planning.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Provide safer options, advocacy, and support to Hispanic/Latino survivors of domestic violence and their children through culturally specific bilingual services.PROGRAM RESULTS: Survivors are more equipped to access safety measures, plan for their futures, and become more self-sufficient due to the support and continuum of services provided.LESSONS LEARNED: Survivors of domestic violence are able to concentrate on their safety and future when continuums of services specific to their needs are available.

CITY: Weslaco, TexasPROGRAM: Leadership Training AcademyPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: In an effort to better equip the predominantly Hispanic community workforce for advancement, the city participates in a leadership training program whereby Hispanic employees, identified by their directors as having potential management or supervisory potential, are nominated to participate in a ten-week training program.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Develop in-house employees for supervisory positions within the City of Weslaco. PROGRAM RESULTS: Three employees that participated in the program have been promoted.LESSONS LEARNED: Insure the program has the full support of the City Manager and department directors.

CITY: Woodburn, OregonPROGRAM: Community Relations OfficerPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: This is a position created by the city to translate and act as an ombudsman for the Hispanic community. Beyond the measures of interpreting at local meetings and in city hall, this individual translates official documents and informal materials, provides resource referral, develops public information for media, and edits a quarterly newsletter.PROGRAM GOAL(S): Increase the Hispanic community’s access to city services and its involvement in civic activities, improve communication with the Spanish-speaking community, and foster cross-cultural understanding.PROGRAM RESULTS: Improved relationships with the Hispanic community and partnerships with Hispanic businesses in the downtown core have lead to a credible, well-supported Business Watch Program, generating positive crime reduction results. This, combined with a more informed Hispanic population as a result of available written and educational materials covering vast subjects.LESSONS LEARNED: The employee must be culturally competent, credible, have excellent judgment, high educational standards, and excellent people skills.

CITY: Salt Lake City, UtahPROGRAM: Good Neighbors Partnership Resource GuidePROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Residents, local leaders, and city officials desiring to help people within the community form strong relations with their neighbors and help build a greater unity within the community joined as a partnership, producing a guide for city residents. Relevant to everyday life, the guide is printed in English and Spanish.PROGRAM GOAL(S): To foster better communication among neighbors and more knowledge as it implies to important rules and resources.PROGRAM RESULTS: The guide has been well received. Due to a high demand, 5000 guides were printed.LESSONS LEARNED: See contact information via the IHN website.

CITY: Rupert, IdahoPROGRAM: Farm Worker Appreciate DayPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Because the farm workers perform their jobs soundly but are lacking in experience and the necessary education to pursue managerial positions, an effort is made to jointly engage in each other’s celebrations for the purpose of more purposeful and resolute communication. PROGRAM GOAL(S): Create an awareness of importance and necessity of each community member.PROGRAM RESULTS: As a result of the eventful day, the workers come to recognize their important role within the community.LESSONS LEARNED: Each individual is essential to the welfare of the community, contributing to its health and strength.

CITY: Reno, NevadaPROGRAM: Diversity Language Skill ProgramPROGRAM DESCRIPTION: Instruction is provided in practical Spanish language skills to interested city employees by certified city employees who are multi-lingual Spanish skilled. PROGRAM GOAL(S): Properly equip city employees at all levels with language skills necessary to serve a diverse community.PROGRAM RESULTS: Combined with the continued certification of employees and service of additional co-facilitators, a total of forty-eight classes have been offered since 2003, averaging 12-15 employees in attendance over the period. LESSONS LEARNED: Develop a process necessary to certify employees in the use of their Spanish language skills. With this, obtain support from the executive level.

Mike AcevedoPhoenix, Arizona

Gustavo CordovaTaos, New Mexico

Larry DovalinaPresidentLaredo, Texas

Chris ZapataNational City, California

Frances GonzalezImmediate Past PresidentSan Antonio, Texas

Bob GutierrezMoreno Valley, California

David MoraSalinas, California

Victor VasquezGrand Rapids, Michigan

Jesus NavaBurlingame, California

Tony OjedaCoral Gables, Florida

Ed SoteloOxnard, California

Peter VargasAllen, Texas

Sandy L. VargasHennepin County, Minnesota

IHN BOARD OF DIRECTORS

International Hispanic Network4007 McCullough Avenue #621

San Antonio, TX 78212

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International Hispanic Network4007 McCullough Avenue #621

San Antonio, TX 78212

www.internationalhispanicnetwork.org

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THE MUNICIPAL BEST PRACTICES FOR THE HISPANIC COMMUNITY SURVEY

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