"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it's the only thing that ever has." -Margaret Mead

To get involved with Centro Romero you can:

1. DONATE to Centro Romero
2. Become a sponsor (current sponsors include: Comcast, Wintrust Bank, Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, and much more!)
3. Work as a VOLUNTEER
4. Stay informed on events and opportunities that Centro Romero is offering by following them on TWITTER

Other ways to get involved in providing opportunities for those who are underserved in our community, outside of Centro Romero:

1. JOIN a student organization at Loyola that works directly with individuals who need help assimilating in our society and are looking for more opportunities.
2. Start working with other organizations who also do work with teaching English, mentoring, etc. Examples of these organizations include:

• Best Buddies
• Hamdard Center for Health and Human Services
• Chicago Youth Programs
• Office of Language and Cultural Education - Chicago Public Schools
• Crossing the Border: Intercultural Initiatives for Learning and Peace
• For more information on different programs offered in the area, check out Loyola's Experiential Learning page!

3. Work one-on-one with international students through Loyola's ESL Program!
4. RAISE AWARENESS of obstacles the Latin American population faces, such as the language barrier, by organizing events throughout your community
5. EDUCATE others on Latin American cultures so as to eliminate stereotypes that create negative associations with the Latin American community
6. TALK to individuals who are part of the Latin American community. You will be able to get a first-hand account of the difficulties individuals face when assimilatng into American culture. 
7. Broaden your perspective on Latin American culture, language, and identity by reading novels and other works by Latin American writers. Some examples include:

• The Crystal Frontier by Carlos Fuentes
• Las Batallas en el Desierto by Emilio Pacheco
• Tomato Potato, Chaloopa Shaloopa by Dagoberto Gilb (essay)
• Chac Mool by Carlos Fuentes (short story)
• The Labyrinth of Solitud by Octavio Paz

Lastly, try and do some little acts of kindness to those who seem to be in need of help. Whether its showing someone how to put money on a train pass or giving someone directions, you'd be surprise how much this means to people who are new to the area, don't speak the language, and are still learning to get around. 

NEW GOAL FOR EVERYONE: Try and make someone's day at least once a week. This can range from giving some change to the homeless person you pass by every day, volunteering, or donating thousands of dollars to a good cause! We must be PROACTIVE if we want to see change!

Image source: http://worldwebcolors.com/?k=hands&p=36