Voices United to change focus; expand

By NORRIS LEDYARD

Expositor Staff Writer

Many times, it takes long hours and hard labor to build a proper structure. Most of the effort goes into the foundation. Otherwise, the continued labor goes for naught.

Voices United (Voces Unidas) started in 1996 as a cultural movement for local Latinos to gather and have their voices heard. By doing positive activities, such as cultural festivals, monthly dinners and other activities, they generated funds for deserving students to pursue college and technical training.

Seeing an opportunity, they made a major shift in the emphasis of the organization by passing the torch to the youth in the area.

Justo Suarez introduced a new slate of officers for Voices United Saturday evening. Alicia Hernandez will serve as director, Leticia Molina, a senior at Wauseon High School will be president, Sonia Triana will be vice-president, Daniela Montano will serve as secretary/treasurer Stephanie Lopez and as sergeant-at-arms, Tiffany Walbur.

"The adults will provide guidance and advice on fundraisers," said Suarez.

"We will be very much like consultants to the youth. With the foundation we have created, the youth will have the opportunity to lead and expand."

"One of the ways we want to expand is through diversity," said Molina. "We are also looking throughout Fulton County and beyond for the youth to be included. Our arms are open."

"Along with scholarships, we are looking to improve the rates of graduation from high school," said Hernandez. "Through programs of abstinence and scholastic achievement, we can create positive paths for the youth.

"Our group is under consideration for grant money from a local university," Hernandez added. "With these funds, we can get more computer equipment, printers and flash drives. These are tools we can use to improve access to our students to computers and increase these learning opportunities. It is very exciting to have the support from the community."