Author: LULAC Cincinnati

Cincinnati – Dec 6, 2024. It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Sebastian Schemmel, a bright and promising young individual who was only 22 years old. Sebastian was not just a recipient of the LOEF scholarship but also represented LULAC Ohio in LULAC Washington Youth Leadership Seminar, where his passion for learning and leadership shone brightly.

Sebastian was known for his unwavering commitment to his community and his inspiring determination to make a difference. His presence was a source of light and hope to many, and his untimely departure leaves a void that is deeply felt by all who knew him. In memory of Sebastian, the family kindly welcomes donations in any amount to The Sebastian Schemmel Legacy Fund: Championing Men’s Mental Health. To leave a message to the Schemmel family and know more about Sebastian click here.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to the Schemmel family and friends during this incredibly difficult time. His legacy of kindness, dedication, and leadership will forever remain in our hearts.

In honor of Sebastian’s memory, LOEF will continue to support and nurture young leaders, aspiring to reflect the same spirit and drive that Sebastian embodied. We will miss him dearly and will always remember the impact he made.

Cincinnati, Nov 2, 2024 – On a beautiful and sunny day, members of LULAC Cincinnati, LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), Immigrant and Refugee Law Center and Esperanza Latino Center, along with many friends and family, gathered to rally support for the Latino vote. The event emphasized the importance of civic duty and the power of community engagement in shaping the future.

The walk took place around the Hamilton County Election Board, where participants could be heard chanting, “If We Vote, We Win” and “Latino sal a votar.” These powerful messages resonated throughout the area, encouraging the Latino community to exercise their right to vote.

The rally concluded in the parking lot. There, they distributed information and engaged in lively discussions with volunteers, further emphasizing the significance of voting and community involvement.

This event not only highlighted the importance of voting but also showcased the unity and determination of the Latino community in Cincinnati. By coming together, they demonstrated that every vote counts and that collective action can lead to meaningful change.

CPS parents, Leyla Peña, CPS coordinator , Victor Casals, CPS family coordinator, Francis Guzmán CPS teacher, Laura Moese, LOEF president and Saida Casals, CPS family coordinator at Risings Stars school in Carthage.

Victor Casals with CPS parent and student

Laura Moese, LOEF President, Mr. Lewis, Hartwell director and a High school volunteer.

Cincinnati, Oct 30, 2024 – Hartwell Elementary School celebrated a successful Parents Meeting, an informative session designed to provide parents with the tools they need to help their children succeed academically. This initiative, aimed at fostering educational support within the community, saw enthusiastic participation and engagement.

The initial involvment of LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF) in these meetings was to give information about our services. These days, it is supporting the establishment of English as a Second Language (ESL) classes at Hartwell and Carthage schools. This collaborative effort involved Leyla Peña, Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS) coordinator, and Geoffrey Woolf, Dean of Humanities and Science at Cincinnati State, showcasing a strong partnership dedicated to enhancing educational resources for Latino families.

Also present at the meeting were Victor Casals, CPS family coordinator at Hartwell; Francis Guzman, CPS teacher; and Saida Casals, CPS family coordinator at Rising Stars School in Carthage. Their contributions highlighted the commitment to improving educational outcomes through community involvement.

The meetings, beyond being instructive, served as a platform for building community bonds. Parents shared food, and the school provided beverages and Halloween candy, adding a festive touch to the gathering. Children enjoyed games and were entertained by Mr. Lewis, Hartwell School Director, Laura Moese, LOEF President, and several high school volunteers. The active involvement of parents in supporting extra-curricular activities at the schools was evident.

LOEF’s support of these meetings is crucial in understanding the community’s needs and enhancing the CPS district’s efforts to serve the growing Latino population effectively.

Cincinnati, October 12, 2024 – the Breast Cancer Awareness event held at Macy’s Kenwood was both informative and impactful, featuring a mobile van that offered 3D breast cancer detection services on-site.

Attendees were deeply moved by the inspiring stories shared by three cancer survivors. In addition, the Mercy Health coordinator and double cancer survivor, emphasized the importance of early detection and was instrumental in overseeing the mobile unit’s operations.

The event was marked by the participation of three LOEF Young Latino Professionals, who provided musical entertainment and added to the vibrant atmosphere. The salsa group Salsamberas, led by Alba Azamar, Alexandria Otto, and Marjorie Marlene, who provided fantastic entertainment and boosted the event’s lively spirit. Laura Moese, LOEF president and Raquel Sotelo LOEF Community Liaison were also present in the event.

LOEF’s participation in the Breast Cancer Awareness event at Macy’s Kenwood exemplified its commitment to community health and the empowerment of its members through education and support.

Cincinnati, October 10, 2024 – Hamilton County’s Hispanic Heritage Month celebrations concluded with an inspiring ceremony where Commissioner Dumas honored three distinguished Latinos for their outstanding contributions to the community. The honorees included Judge Marilyn Zayas, Aileen Combs, Civil Rights Director at LULAC Cincinnati, and Sergio Mata, Immigration Liaison from the Community Action Agency.

The ceremony was graced by numerous community leaders, notably Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF) and Raquel Sotelo, LOEF Community Liaison, who attended to show support for the community and strengthen partnerships.

Judge Marilyn Zayas, in her acceptance speech, highlighted the pivotal role LULAC played in shaping her community involvement. Following the ceremony, Judge Zayas offered a tour of her chambers, providing attendees with a deeper insight into her work and dedication.

This event marked a fitting culmination to Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrating the rich cultural contributions and steadfast community service of its leaders.