community – LULAC Cincinnati

LOEF and LULAC @ Carthage Elementary School Open House

LULAC Cincinnati Event August 29, 2025August 29, 2025Cincinnati, community, Education

Cincinnati, OH — August 28, 2025
Carthage Elementary School (CES) opened its doors to families and community members for a welcoming Open House celebration, highlighting its commitment to inclusivity and family engagement—especially among its growing Latino population.

Among the key contributors were Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF); Victoria Garland, LOEF Board Member; and Lourdes Ribera, Vice President of LULAC Cincinnati. These dedicated leaders regularly collaborate with CES to provide Spanish-language translation services, ensuring that families with limited English proficiency can fully participate in their children’s education. Laura Moese also contributes as CES board member.

Working alongside Saida Canel, Latin Family Coordinator for Cincinnati Public Schools, the team was joined this time by Rosalba Arreaga, whose presence further strengthened the translation efforts. Their work allowed Spanish-speaking parents to engage meaningfully with teachers, understand academic expectations, and access school resources.

The Open House also underscored the growing partnership between CES and LULAC / LOEF—a collaboration that continues to uplift the local Latino community. Through consistent engagement, translation services, and cultural outreach, LOEF and LULAC help CES create a more inclusive environment where families feel supported and empowered. This alliance not only strengthens communication between parents and educators but also fosters trust, belonging, and educational success for Latino students across the district.

Florence Y’Alls Celebrate Latin Heritage Night with LULAC and LOEF

LULAC Cincinnati Event August 29, 2025August 29, 2025Baseball, community, Young Latino Profesionals

Florence, KY — August 22, 2025 The Florence Y’Alls Baseball Club brought vibrant energy and cultural pride to the ballpark during their annual Latin Heritage Night, hosting the Gateway Grizzlies in a spirited matchup that blended sports, community, and celebration.

In a show of support for Latino empowerment and education, the Y’Alls donated 200 tickets to Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), inviting members of LULAC and LOEF to join the festivities. The gesture underscored the team’s commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.

Before the first pitch, players of Latin heritage took to the field wrapped in flags representing their countries of origin, creating a powerful visual tribute to their roots. The pre-game ceremony featured a stirring rendition of the National Anthem by Karen Becerra, known as “La Dama del Pueblo,” whose voice set a proud and emotional tone for the evening.

The game itself was a rollercoaster of excitement. The Grizzlies came out swinging, scoring three runs in the first inning. But the Y’Alls rallied, turning the tide by the sixth inning to lead 7–5—a score that held through the final out. Meanwhile, LOEF members, in particular the Young Latino Professional Network made the most of the lively crowd, selling Split the Pot tickets to raise funds for educational scholarships. The initiative added a meaningful layer to the night, blending entertainment with purpose.

The night closed with fireworks. From the flags on the field to the cheers in the stands, Latin Heritage Night was more than just a game—it was a celebration of identity, unity, and baseball!

🎉 Viva Cinci Lights Up the Night for LOEF

LULAC Cincinnati Event August 18, 2025August 18, 2025Art, community, Happy Hour, Young Latino Profesionals

Ricardo Ugas LOEF-YLP President, Salsamberas dancing group ( Marjorie, Marisol and Alba), Tony Arreaga Viva Cinci owner and Laura Moese LOEF President

Karen Becerra, La Dama del Pueblo singer from Maxico

Wilmer, singer from Puerto Rico and DJ Tonny Mixx,

Friends of LOEF

Rhinegeist Team

WEST CHESTER, OH — August 16, 2025 — In a lively fusion of music, dance, and community spirit, Viva Cinci and Rhinegeist Brewery joined forces to support the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF) scholarship program. The fundraising event, held at Viva Cinci’s vibrant Mexican restaurant, turned an ordinary Saturday night into a celebration of culture and purpose.

For every purchase of a Cincy Light Lime pint paired with a tequila shot, LOEF’s scholarship fund received a $1, helping to empower Latino students across Ohio through educational opportunities. 🎶 The evening was curated by Tony Arriaga, owner of Viva Cinci and a proud member of LOEF’s Young Latino Professionals, Laura Moese, President of LOEF and Ricardo Ugas president of LOEF-YLP. As a former LOEF scholarship recipient himself, Arriaga brought personal passion and flair to the event, transforming the restaurant into a hub of entertainment and generosity.

💃 Guests were treated to a dynamic lineup of performers, beginning with the high-energy moves of the Salsamberas dancing group. The stage then lit up with the powerful vocals of Karen “La Dama del Pueblo,” a beloved singer from Mexico, followed by Wilmer, a soulful artist from Puerto Rico. DJ Tonny Mixx kept the rhythm flowing throughout the night, blending Latin beats with crowd favorites to keep the dance floor alive.

The fundraiser not only showcased the richness of Latino culture but also highlighted the power of community collaboration. With every toast and dance step, attendees contributed to a cause that uplifts future generations.

LOEF expressed deep gratitude to Viva Cinci, Rhinegeist, and all who participated, reaffirming its mission to support Latino youth through education, mentorship, and cultural celebration.

🎭 Theater Workshop Celebrates Diversity and Creativity in Cincinnati

LULAC Cincinnati Event August 15, 2025August 17, 2025Art, Cincinnati, community

Laura Moese, President of LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation, Gabriel Martinez and Karen Becerra

CINCINNATI, August 16, 2025 — In a vibrant celebration of art, emotion, and unity, Gabriel Martinez, from Dos Corazones Productions and a member of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation Young Latino Professionals (LOEF-YLP), led a dynamic theater workshop at the Community Happens Here Center. Designed for participants of all ages, the event blended movement, storytelling, and visual arts to explore themes of diversity, empathy, and connection.

The workshop opened with a dance session, inviting attendees to explore how body language can express a wide range of emotions. This physical introduction set the tone for a day of creative exploration and meaningful dialogue.

📚 Participants then gathered to read Gato y Pez (Cat and Fish), a whimsical yet profound story that highlights how differences can enrich relationships rather than divide them. The narrative sparked conversations about unity and the power of diversity to foster collaboration and understanding. Inspired by the book, attendees created drawings of their favorite scenes and characters, bringing their interpretations to life through color and imagination. The artistic journey continued with a captivating shadow projection performance, adding a theatrical dimension to the workshop’s message.

📝 The event concluded with a reading of a poem by Federico García Lorca, emphasizing the importance of friendship and echoing the themes found in Gato y Pescado. The poem served as a poetic bridge between literature and lived experience, leaving participants with a sense of connection and inspiration. The workshop was met with enthusiasm and joy, as families and individuals engaged in multiple art forms and thoughtful discussions. With support from ArtsWave, this initiative will soon expand to primary schools in Hartwell and Carthage, bringing its message of unity and creativity to younger audiences.

This community-centered initiative was made possible through the leadership of Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), who facilitated the partnership between Dos Corazones Productions and Community Happens Here (CHH). Her efforts were instrumental in bringing the workshop to life and ensuring its accessibility to families across Cincinnati. With support from ArtsWave, the program will soon expand to primary schools in Hartwell and Carthage. Laura Moese and LOEF are actively championing this rollout, reinforcing their commitment to empowering Latino youth and fostering inclusive community engagement through the arts.

Latin Heritage Night with the Y’All at Thomas More Stadium

LULAC Cincinnati Event August 15, 2025August 15, 2025Baseball, community, Northern Kentucky, Y'All

Viva Cinci Launch Party

LULAC Cincinnati Event July 18, 2025August 17, 2025community, Happy Hour

AfriFest 2025

LULAC Cincinnati Event July 18, 2025Cincinnati, community, culture

Latino Student Leaders were Honored At NKU Alegría

LULAC Cincinnati Event May 16, 2025May 16, 2025community, Education, Northern Kentucky

Honored Students

Left to Right: Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF) with LULAC NKU Student Council members and Lourdes Ribera, President of LULAC Cincinnati

Left to Right: Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF), Maggie Perez, President of the LULAC NKU Student Council, and her sister, Melissa Perez with Lourdes Ribera, President of LULAC Cincinnati

Left to Right: Lourdes Ribera, President of LULAC Cincinnati with Tiburcio Lince and Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF)

Brendon Thompson, NKU’s Vice President of Student Affairs, and Nicole Froning, Manager of NKU Student Affairs Enrollment

Highland Heights, Ky. – April 26, 2025 – Northern Kentucky University (NKU) hosted NKU Alegría, a vibrant celebration honoring Latino students who have made a significant impact during the 2024-2025 academic year. The event recognized outstanding achievements, leadership, and dedication to fostering a supportive community for fellow students.

Maggie Perez, President of the LULAC NKU Student Council, and her sister, Melissa Perez, extended the invitation to Lourdes Ribera, President of LULAC Cincinnati, and Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF). Family members and fellow council members joined the festivities as the Office of Latino Student Initiatives (LSI) celebrated student excellence.

During the ceremony, Maggie Perez was honored with the LSI Senior Award, recognizing her academic achievements and leadership. Melissa Perez received the LAMP Mentor of the Year Award for her commitment to guiding and uplifting her peers. Additionally, Dayna Bernardo was presented with a Service Award, while Katherine Jantes earned the Impact Award for her contributions to student success.

Adding to the significance of the evening, LSI invited former director Tiburcio Lince to present awards to graduating seniors, acknowledging their dedication and perseverance.
The event allowed networking where Laura Moese had the opportunity to present LOEF’s mission and its ongoing efforts to support Latino students to Brendon Thompson, NKU’s Vice President of Student Affairs, and Nicole Froning, Manager of NKU Student Affairs Enrollment.

The event was a resounding success, bringing together students, mentors, and advocates to celebrate the passion and commitment of Latino student leaders. Through recognition, encouragement, and shared achievements, NKU Alegría highlighted the powerful impact of community and educational empowerment.

LULAC and LOEF @the ELL foundation Annual Recognition Breakfast

LULAC Cincinnati Event March 7, 2025March 8, 2025Cincinnati, community, Education, Northern Kentucky

George and Rosa Moreno, LOEF Director of Higher Education and ELL Board member, Samuel D. Rowe Jr, Professor Emeritus Cincinnati State, Laura Moese, LOEF President

NKU, ELL and CPS partners

Laura Moese, LOEF President , Maggie Pérez - President of LULAC NKU council, Lourdes Rivera LULAC president and Melissa Perez LULAC NKU xouncil member

Laura Moese, LOEF President, Mayra Jackson, Executive Director of the IRL center, Alfonso Cornejo director HCCUSA, Marie Kobayasi and Lourdes Ribera, LULAC President

Lourdes Ribera, LULAC President, Maider Marin McGee, LOEF board member, Laura Moese, LOEF President

ELL recognize students excellence

Leo Calderon, Esperanza Center President, Laura Moese, LOEF President with Laura Espinoza (Dayer HS), ELL Scholarship recipient and her mom Gladys

Laura Moese, LOEF President, Sandra Bazzani NKU Latino Student Initiatives and Mayra Jackson, Executive Director of the IRL center

Highland Heights, Feb 27, 2025 – The English Language Learning (ELL) Foundation held its Annual Recognition Breakfast at Northern Kentucky University’s (NKU) Student Union, under the inspiring motto “Leaping Forward: Global Voices, Local Impact.” This event is a heartfelt celebration of the exceptional accomplishments of bright English language (EL) students, caring educators, and community organizations that have made significant contributions.

Every year, the ELL Foundation invites a diverse group of donors, students, educators, and community friends to join in honoring the successes and resilience of EL students overcoming adversities. This year was no exception, as the community gathered to celebrate and recognize those who have made impactful strides.

During the Recognition Breakfast, the Foundation awarded honors to the Students of the Year, Educator of the Year, Community Ally of the Year, and the prestigious Make a Difference Award. These accolades are a testament to the dedication and hard work of those involved in promoting and supporting English language learning.

The event also serves as the main fundraising effort for the ELL Foundation Scholarship program, which provides opportunities for English language learners to pursue higher education at accredited area colleges and universities. This year’s breakfast was pivotal in raising the necessary funds to continue this crucial support.

Lourdes Ribera, President of LULAC Cincinnati; Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation; and Maider Marin McGee, LULAC and LOEF board member were in attendance to Support Rosa Moreno, LOEF Director of Higher Education with ELL. Their presence underscored the partnership between the ELL Foundation and these prominent organizations, as they came together to celebrate the accomplishments of LOEF and LULAC council members who were recognized during the event.

LULAC and LOEF congratulate to all the honored students and Professional in this Event.

The Annual Recognition Breakfast remains a cherished tradition, embodying the spirit of unity and progress, and highlighting the powerful impact of community support on the lives of English language learners.

St Valentine @ Rising Star Schools

LULAC Cincinnati Event February 16, 2025February 16, 2025community, Education

St Valentine @ Rising Star Schools

Cincinnati, February 13, 2024 – The spirit of love and community was in full bloom at Rising Star School as they hosted a St. Valentine’s Day celebration, with food and gifts generously sponsored by Laura Moese, President of the LULAC Ohio Educational Foundation (LOEF). The vibrant event brought joy to 30 pre-K, kindergarten, and first-grade students, as Moese participated by reading stories and coloring with the young attendees.

Following the festivities, LOEF Board member Victoria Garland and Moese continued their tradition of serving as translators during the parent-teacher meetings, a valuable service they provide every quarter to ensure clear communication and support for the families. The St. Valentine’s event at Rising Star School highlighted the strong bond between the school and LOEF, as well as their commitment to creating a nurturing and inclusive space for all students and their families.

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