It was a historical working meeting of January 16, when the Board of the Town de Riverhead, in Long Island, NY officially formed the Committee for the Development, Empowerment and Hispanic Education (HDEC).
The objectives of the Committee, according to the founding member Alexander Escobar, are to empower businessmen and Hispanic companies providing essential resources, tutoring and opportunities to establish contacts, expand the initiatives for educational development and workforce to cultivate a qualified and competitive workforce.
Also, strengthen civic commitment through greater collaboration with the local government and public service entities, and advocate for a significant Hispanic representation in all spheres of community life, while promoting consciousness and cultural appreciation.
“Hdeec formation is a personal and collective milestone, which marks a crucial moment for inclusion and representation,” said Escobar.
«It reflects our shared commitment to foster a prosperous Hispanic community in Riverhead and the East End. The Committee represents a significant step towards the empowerment of people and companies, the approach to systemic challenges and the construction of a more cohesive and supportive community. It is a collective strength and resilience, ”he said.
Escobar is director of photography, entrepreneur and community leader. He is the founder and owner of Cafè Victoria, a member of the Board of Directors of the Riverhead Chamber of Commerce and member of the Committee of the Riverhead Anti-Prejudice Work Group.
The committee was formed through a joint effort by councilor Ken Rothwell (Republican of Wading River) and the members of the community.
«(Rothwell) recognized the pressing need for an initiative focused on supporting the Hispanic community. I shared the challenges and opportunities facing the community and together we exchange ideas and build the foundations for this committee. The dedication, the proactive approach and leadership of Councilor Rothwell were fundamental to convert this vision into reality ».
Other members of the Committee are Edgar Mejía, former Guatemalan diplomat; Montserrat Ruiz, a dentist with a master’s degree in education and successful businesswoman; Gary Vogel, managing partner of East Coast Nurseries; Elias Salcedo, founder of New Jerusalem Church; Annaly Kess, employee of the Central School District of Riverhead; and Daniel Sullivan, entrepreneur, strategist and defender of green energy initiatives.
“The Committee for Hispanic Development, Empowerment and Education is dedicated to promoting economic development, empowerment and education of the Hispanic community in Riverhead,” Rothwell said in the work session on January 16.
«HDEC provides access to essential resources such as tutoring, financial education, workforce development, leadership training and community participation initiatives by promoting economic growth, educational progress and a stronger civic participation. The HDEC empowers people and families while driving inclusive progress and strengthens rubber heads as a vibrant, diverse and prosperous community, ”he emphasized.
