Hispanic Heritage month 2025
During Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 to October 15), the City of South Bend and La Casa de Amistad honor leaders who have been instrumental to the history and culture of South Bend. This year we will be hosting a community celebration to honor these leaders on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.
The City of South Bend’s Office of the Mayor originally started celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month during Best Week Ever in 2022. The awards presentation was held during Best Wednesday Ever on Western Avenue on the Boomer stage. During that time, with recommendations by La Casa de Amistad’s committee, the City recognized three individuals in the community who were making a significant impact in the Hispanic Community. These honorees were honored with a plaque from the City. The celebration continues!
The City of South Bend’s Office of the Mayor originally started celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month during Best Week Ever in 2022. The awards presentation was held during Best Wednesday Ever on Western Avenue on the Boomer stage. During that time, with recommendations by La Casa de Amistad’s committee, the City recognized three individuals in the community who were making a significant impact in the Hispanic Community. These honorees were honored with a plaque from the City. The celebration continues!
Raices de Esperanza:
Recognizing Latino/Hispanic Leaders in Action
In 2025, we proudly continue our annual awards presentation and Community Celebration at La Casa de Amistad. Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to celebrate the stories, achievements, and contributions of Hispanic professionals who make a difference every day. We invite you to help us honor those who uplift others through their work, service, and leadership. By submitting a nomination, you are helping us highlight the strength, culture, and spirit of our community.
We are looking for Latino/Hispanic leaders that showcase any of the following leadership values:
2025 Celebration : Tuesday, September 23 from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Doors open at 5:30 PM and ceremony begins at 6pm with entertainment and dinner following.
Location: La Casa de Amistad, 3423 S. Michigan St., South Bend
RSVP / Nomination Deadline: September 6, 2025
The Community Celebration is free and open to the public.
We are looking for Latino/Hispanic leaders that showcase any of the following leadership values:
- Community-rooted – deeply involved and committed to uplifting their local Latino/Hispanic community.
- Quiet changemakers – making a powerful impact behind the scenes without seeking recognition.
- Cultural stewards – preserving and celebrating Latino/Hispanic culture and traditions.
- Mentors and role models – inspiring and guiding others through their everyday actions.
- Bridge-builders – fostering unity, understanding, and collaboration across communities.
2025 Celebration : Tuesday, September 23 from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm
Doors open at 5:30 PM and ceremony begins at 6pm with entertainment and dinner following.
Location: La Casa de Amistad, 3423 S. Michigan St., South Bend
RSVP / Nomination Deadline: September 6, 2025
The Community Celebration is free and open to the public.
2024 award honorees
Susana Lagunas
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Ricardo Parra
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Amada Salazar
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