Orange County Schools and Orange County Government Unite to Celebrate Hispanic Heritage
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Orange County - North CarolinaStudents, families, and neighbors filled Orange High School on Wednesday, October 14, for Empoderando: Conectando con Nuestra Cultura, Orange County Schools’ fourth annual Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, hosted this year in partnership with Orange County government. Organizers welcomed 454 guests, not counting the staff, volunteers, and community members who contributed their time, artwork, and informational booths. Empoderando means “empowering,” and the event was open to everyone in Orange County, whether they have a child in Orange County Schools or not.
A Celebration That Grows Every Year
The evening included student and community performances, cultural displays, interactive activities, and more than 10 local vendors showcasing artwork, crafts, and traditional treats. Teachers joined their students in performances, art displays, and information booths.
“What stood out to me most was seeing how this event continues to grow every year. More families and community members want to participate, share their talents, and contribute to the celebration,” said Sandra Blefko, Family and Community Outreach Coordinator with Orange County Schools.
Resources Under One Roof
Informational booths connected families with services, including Orange County Social Services programs for after-school and summer camp opportunities and for youth employment and training. El Centro Hispano provided free flu vaccinations. The Office of Civil Rights and Civic Life, which works to advance fairness and inclusion in Orange County, hosted an information table, and county staff volunteered throughout the evening.
A Partnership That Reaches the Whole Community
Marlyn Valeiko, Language Access and Community Specialist with the Office of Civil Rights and Civic Life, co-hosted and co-emceed the program with Blefko.
“This year, we had the privilege of partnering with Orange County Government, which allowed us to expand Empoderando beyond the school system and reach the community as a whole,” Blefko said.
“It was great to see such a great turnout! Your presence added warmth, joy, and shared moments, and embraced our diverse culture with talented student singers and dancers, resources, crafts, and food from our community,” said Valeiko.
Empoderando shows how the Office of Civil Rights and Civic Life plans to build more of its programming: in partnership with schools, community organizations, and residents.
Thank you to the students, families, teachers, performers, vendors, volunteers, and partners, including the Orange County Schools Family Support Team.
To here about future programs and ways to get involved, subscribe to our newsletter at www.orangecountync.gov/CRCLNewsletter.
If you need information in another format or language, or need an accommodation, please contact us at 919-245-2594 or civilrights@orangecountync.gov.
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