Empowering Communities: Hidalgo County’s Access to Success Program
Introduction to the Access to Success Program
In a powerful gathering at the Monza Social Event Center in Edinburg, Texas, the Hidalgo County Community Service Agency (HCCSA) celebrated the achievements of its Access to Success program on December 12, 2024. This initiative, designed to combat poverty and empower individuals, remains a cornerstone of community service in Hidalgo County, highlighting its enduring legacy since its inception as part of President Johnson’s War on Poverty initiative in the 1960s.
A Legacy of Support
Established in the mid-1970s, the HCCSA has played an important role in connecting residents of Hidalgo County with essential services and programs. The Access to Success initiative, funded through a Community Service Block Grant, aims to provide participants with the skills and resources needed to achieve self-sufficiency and transition out of poverty.
Jaime R. Longoria, the director of HCCSA, emphasized the program’s commitment to fostering upward mobility for its participants. "Our goal is to create pathways that enable individuals to gain independence and ultimately thrive in their communities," he stated in a recent interview.
Celebrating Graduates: A Milestone Achievement
This year’s Access to Success program saw the graduation of 19 determined participants, each equipped with new skills and training that will help them in their career pursuits. Graduates included:
- Joel Barrios – South Texas College
- Jocelyn Bravo – Valley Grande Institute
- Nathalie Casa – South Texas College
- Aleander Camacho – South Texas College
- Karla Castillo – McAllen Careers Institute
- Adelina Vega – UT-Rio Grande Valley
- Juan Gonzalez – Southern Industrial Careers Institute
- Shelsey Gutierrez – South Texas College
- Amoramay Hernandez – Del Mar College
- Jose Juarez – McAllen Careers Institute
- Nahomi Erin – South Texas Vocational Technical Institute
- Ezequiel Moreno – McAllen Careers Institute
- Anahi Munis – Rio Grande Valley College
- Angelica Olvera – UT-Rio Grande Valley
- Christophe Pruneda – South Texas Vocational Technical Institute
- Raymond Rojas – McAllen Careers Institute
- Marisa Zepeda – South Texas College
Each graduate represents a story of dedication, resilience, and hope—a true testament to the transformative power of educational programs.
Honoring Contributions
During the banquet, HCCSA also recognized key community partners for their support in advancing the Access to Success program. Institutions like Lone Star National Bank, McAllen Careers Institute, and the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley School of Nursing were acknowledged for their contributions to local education and workforce development.
In an additional highlight, Hidalgo County Judge Richard Cortez was named Field Marshal of the War on Poverty in Hidalgo County, underlining the collective effort required to eradicate poverty and uplift all community members.
Conclusion: A Path Forward
The Access to Success program remains a vital resource in Hidalgo County, fostering empowerment and education that paves the way for individuals to overcome barriers and realize their aspirations. As the community continues to rally around these initiatives, there is a bright future ahead for the residents of Hidalgo County.
For more about Hidalgo County’s efforts in community service and poverty alleviation, visit the Hidalgo County Community Service Agency and discover how you can get involved or support these transformative programs.
Join the movement towards empowerment and self-sufficiency today!
