Author: Isabella Cortez

Transforming Colonias: The Mission of the AltaCair Foundation Addressing the Needs of Underserved Communities In the heart of McAllen, Texas, the recently established AltaCair Foundation has set its sights on a transformative mission: enhancing the living conditions of colonia residents. With a commitment to serving those who are often overlooked, the foundation aims to bridge the existing gaps in healthcare, access to resources, and essential services for the underserved and uninsured populations in the Rio Grande Valley (RGV). Vision and Purpose of the AltaCair Foundation Dr. Edwin Estevez, a board member of the AltaCair Foundation, articulates the core vision: “The…

Rio Grande Valley Broadband Coalition Welcomes New Program Manager The Rio Grande Valley Broadband Coalition has appointed Ricardo Saenz, MPA, as its inaugural Program Manager. The announcement was made by Jordana Barton-Garcia, the coalition’s director, in a recent newsletter. Introducing Ricardo Saenz Ricardo Saenz, a resident of Donna, Texas, brings a wealth of experience in nonprofit program management, community outreach, and health initiatives to the coalition. He is passionate about empowering underserved populations, a mission he has dedicated his career to through various health and community projects. Background and Experience Saenz has held significant positions within the nonprofit sector. At…

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller’s Executive Order on Water Use in the Rio Grande Valley Water Management Solutions Amid Heavy Rainfall On October 17, 2024, Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller announced a significant executive order aimed at enhancing water use efficiency for farmers and ranchers in the Rio Grande Valley. This collaborative approach comes at a crucial time, as heavy rainfalls in Mexico have led to substantial overflow from the Marte Gomez reservoir, which has been sending excess water into the Gulf of Mexico—essentially wasted. The recently signed order enables local agricultural producers to channel this precious water for irrigation…

Community Event Focused on Emergency Preparedness Set to Make Waves An upcoming community event aimed at enhancing emergency preparedness will see participation from a variety of prominent speakers and organizations. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from experts from the National Weather Service, the Salvation Army, the Weslaco Fire Department, and local weather authorities including KRGV Meteorologist Tim Smith and the dedicated weather team from Telemundo 40, featuring Brenda Cantu, Karina Segovia, and Gabriela Gutierrez. Diverse Participation from Key Local Entities In addition to the speakers, several critical agencies will also contribute to the event. Among them are Texas…

Texas: The Heart of Growth and Gateway to Opportunity In the vibrant landscape of Texas, where economic activity converges with a rich tapestry of culture, Open EB5 stands as a transformative player, bridging global investors with influential real estate initiatives. By aligning strategic investments with opportunities for permanent U.S. residency, Open EB5 presents unmatched value—benefiting investors and the communities empowered by these real estate ventures. The Core Mission The mission of Open EB5 is straightforward yet profound: "To develop transformative real estate projects that redefine communities, stimulate sustainable economic growth, and create lasting value." The company provides a secure path…

Empowering Education and Workforce Development in South Texas Introduction to RSTEF Rio-South Texas Education & Community Development (RSTEF) is a dedicated nonprofit organization that champions postsecondary education and workforce development in South Texas. Covering a diverse seven-county region—Willacy, Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr, Zapata, Jim Hogg, and Webb—RSTEF aims to enhance educational opportunities and economic development for local residents. Bridging the Skills Gap RSTEF plays a pivotal role in providing financial assistance to other nonprofit organizations that deliver programs focused on enhancing employment skills and educational attainment. The overarching goal is to empower individuals in the region to achieve vocational certifications and…

The RGV Vipers, a prominent basketball team based in the Rio Grande Valley, recently took time off from their rigorous season to spread some holiday cheer at Driscoll Children’s Hospital. This heartfelt event exemplifies the incredible bond between the team and the community, showcasing that their influence goes far beyond just the basketball court. Throughout their visit, the Vipers were greeted with immense excitement and joy, as they distributed gifts and recognized the young patients with awards. The atmosphere was filled with laughter and gratitude, creating a memorable experience for both the children and the players. This day underscored how…

Understanding the Impact of Local Events on Community Engagement in the Rio Grande Valley Introduction The Rio Grande Valley, a vibrant region in South Texas, is witnessing a surge in community engagement driven by a variety of local events. This area, known for its diverse culture and rich history, provides a perfect backdrop for gatherings that foster community spirit. Through festivals, markets, and educational workshops, residents are creating an inclusive environment that strengthens social ties and promotes local initiatives. The Importance of Community Events Community events are essential for fostering connections among residents. They serve as platforms for individuals from…

Empowering Education and Workforce Development in South Texas Overview of RSTEF In the heart of South Texas, Rio-South Texas Education & Community Development (RSTEF) plays a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape and workforce opportunities for residents in the region. As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, RSTEF is dedicated to advancing postsecondary education and ensuring efficient workforce development across a diverse seven-county area. The Mission of RSTEF RSTEF operates within a network of counties including Willacy, Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr, Zapata, Jim Hogg, and Webb. The organization is committed to providing financial support to local nonprofits, specifically those that facilitate…

Immigration Raids Shake Rio Grande Valley: Over 50 Arrested, Local Businesses Feel the Pinch The Rio Grande Valley is undergoing a significant upheaval due to recent immigration raids executed by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). With more than 50 undocumented immigrants detained, the local community is engulfed in anxiety and uncertainty, prompting businesses to suffer financially. Community Under Siege: The Rise of Fear The impact of ICE’s operations has sent shockwaves through the Valley. Many residents are exhibiting signs of distress, refraining from their daily routines out of fear of unjust detention. "We have to fear every day. The…