Hispanic Outreach Program

Starting with seed money from the Kelso Rotary's International Committee in 2004, the Ethnic Support Council started its Hispanic Outreach Program. Gina Aguayo was ESC's first Hispanic outreach worker. Rafael Garcia took over when Gina moved out of the area. Rafael reached out into the area's growing Spanish-speaking community to share information on resources in the area. Rafael worked closely with Michelle Garcia (no relation) of the Emergency Support Shelter. Besides visiting people at churches, businesses, migrant work camps and other places, Rafael also distributed information through a Spanish language newsletter. Rafael left ESC in February 2006 to work with the Seattle Archdiocese to help migrant workers in the Longview-Kelso area. ESC will have a new Hispanic outreach soon.

Crime Victim Advocates

In late 2005, the Emergency Support Shelter and Ethnic Support Council were awarded a $160,000 grant from the state's Office of Crime Victims Advocacy.  With the grant, ESC hired two full-time crime victim advocates in January 2006. Linda and Lori work out of the ESS office in Kelso and assists victims of general crime in Cowlitz and Wahkiakum counties. Michelle Garcia, who works out of an office in Vancouver, helps victims of general crime in Clark County. (General crimes are those not involving domestic violence or sexual assault.) Victims of general crimes may call the toll-free number, (888) 425-1176 to make arrangements to meet with an advocate.

The Ethnic Support Council Board of Directors meets from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. on the second Wednesday of each month.  Meetings are open to the public.  To become a member call (360) 751-4427 or Contact Us By Email

 Board of Directors Officers

President-	Cindy Lopez
Vice-President-	Wes Johnson
Treasurer-	Bill Reade

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