Latin American Association’s Compañeros Awards Luncheon
LAA is a "beacon for the community and families who need it the most."
Award recipient, Andrew Parker, City Administrator for the City of Dalton, GA | Photo Credits: Jeo Hernández
The 35th Annual Luncheon took place Thursday, April 11th, 2024 at the Georgia Aquarium Oceans Ballroom. This Luncheon serves to “recognize the contributions of exceptional individuals and organizations making a difference in the lives of Latino families.”
Speakers included Doug Shipman, Atlanta City Council President, who spoke on the importance of “voting with your feet,” dedicating time and showing up for the efforts of the LAA.
Mark Madrid, Associate Administrator for the Office of Entrepreneurial Development at the U.S. SBA, shared progress on investments made by the LAA in the form of small-dollar lending. The median loan provided is only $8,000. With these small loans and access to “capital, contracts, counseling, contacts and confidence,” Latino-owned business capital has increased over 80% since 2020.
Bruce Thompson, GA Commissioner of Labor, spoke on their prison reform program and the healthy labor participation rate in the state. Bruce is fearlessly fighting a battle with cancer, follow and support him in his fight. #BattleWithBruce
Santiago Marquez, CEO of the LAA welcomed the attendees and professed his appreciation for the “amazing people and amazing organizations helping us do what we do.” He emphasized the importance of these partnerships and the collaborative efforts that bring critically needed services to the growing Latino communities across Georgia.
One such partner is Mohawk Industries, located in Dalton, GA, whose local workforce is 60% Hispanic. The LAA’s expansion into Dalton lead to the development of the Dalton/Whitfield Leadership Institute in partnership with Mohawk and UGA’s J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development.
Paul “Andrew” Parker, P.E., City Administrator for the City of Dalton, GA was awarded the LAA NWGA Partner of the Year Award for Northwest Georgia.
Partner of the Year was also awarded to the Gary W. Rollins Foundation for their commitment to workforce development and domestic violence and hunger prevention.
Michael Thrumond, DeKalb’s County CEO, expressed DeKalb County’s commitment to “helping citizens from all over this earth,” and was presented with the LAA Public Service Award.
Michael Thurmond, DeKalb County CEO Photography Credits: Jeo Hernández
Other award winners included:
Tony DelCampo – Olga C. de Goizueta Pacesetter Award
Rep. Pedro Marin – 2024 LAA Legacy Award
Susana Chavez – Stratton Frank Cornerstone Award
Lilian Castillo – Angel Ortiz Heart of the LAA Award
The families of Stratton Frank and Angel Ortiz were present to accept a plaque in honor of their loved one’s legacy.
The Luncheon was Emceed by Jorge Estevez, WSB-TV, Anchor of Channel 2 Action News at 5 p.m. and 11 p.m.
About the LAA:
The mission of the Latin American Association (LAA) is to empower Latinos to adapt, integrate and thrive. Our vision is ‘Opportunity for All.’
Founded in 1972, the LAA has grown over the past four decades to become the region’s leading agency representing Georgia’s Latino issues. The LAA offers a targeted menu of direct services that helps Latino individuals assimilate and become contributing members of Georgia’s community.
The LAA achieves its mission through five (5) focus areas: Civic Engagement and advocacy, Economic Empowerment, Youth Services, Family Stabilization and well-being, and Immigration Services. Each focus area includes a targeted menu of direct services, large-scale events, and advocacy to realize significant community impact and affect systems-level change.
Read Next:
Georgia Trend’s 2024 Economic Yearbook, Northwest Georgia, April 2024
Deciding on Dalton – Georgia Trend Our State: Dalton-Whitfield County, November 2023
