The Latin American Chamber of Commerce Charlotte (LACCC) is creating a center for economic opportunity thanks, in part, to a $1.4 million appropriation by the Mecklenburg Board of County Commissioners.
The Hispanic/Latino Center for Economic Opportunity will be housed in the Albemarle Road Corridor of Opportunity. According to a news release provided by the LACCC, the center will focus on economic opportunity by helping Hispanic/Latino residents build more successful lives through workforce programming and entrepreneurship.
The county’s investment was part of the second round of appropriations from the American Rescue Plan Act (APRA).
“Mecklenburg County is fortunate and grateful to have strong community partners such as the Latin American Chamber of Commerce of Charlotte, who stand ready to help our immigrant populations and lift them up in the community,” Dena Diorio, county manager of Mecklenburg County, said. “Workforce development is a stated priority of Mecklenburg County leadership. We are committed to providing all residents the opportunity to work and train for fulfilling careers, and to ensure that any resident’s origin or ethnic background doesn’t affect their success. This project will greatly benefit residents in the dynamic neighborhoods that make up the Albemarle Road corridor, and we’re excited to watch it grow as a destination for learning and employment within our Hispanic/Latino community.”
The $1.5 million appropriate is the largest single investment in the organization’s history.
“Helping our community get back on its feet after the devastating impacts of the pandemic was the intended purpose of ARPA, and Mecklenburg County’s investment in our future is a testament to how far we’ve come as a community, and to the important role Hispanic/ Latino people play in the ecosystem of Charlotte,” Gris Bailey, LACCC president/CEO, said.
In 2023, the LACCC will be engaging in several activities to ensure community voice is engaged. The organization wants to create this center in partnership with the communities it intends to serve, Bailey said. To get involved, visit the LACCC website.
