The history of Esperanza is also the story of struggle, faith, and commitment within the Hispanic community of Philadelphia. Its founder and president, the Reverend Luis Antonio Cortés, Jr., arrived in the city in 1981 with the purpose of working alongside the Christian clergy to support Latino families. From that initial effort emerged the Christian Ministerial Association of Hispanic Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity, a space that united religious and community leaders. 

Over time, Cortés and other leaders identified an urgent need for change. “Whenever something bad happened in the Hispanic community, they called us clergy, but it was always reactive,” he explained. The clergy organization was only called upon during moments of crisis, when problems had already surfaced, leaving little opportunity for prevention or long-term community strengthening. 

That reflection led to a new vision.  On July 1, 1986, Nueva Esperanza, Inc. (today known as Esperanza) was founded with the goal of becoming a proactive organization focused on improving the overall well-being of Latino families. “That’s when I began as the executive director,” Cortés, recalled, marking the beginning of a trajectory that today impacts thousands of people in Philadelphia and Southeastern Pennsylvania. 

Education, Housing, and Dignity: addressing the most urgent needs 

Since its founding, Esperanza has worked to respond to the many needs of the community. “There are many, and we try to be broad in how we respond to those needs,” said Cortés. The organization develops educational programs that include elementary and secondary in-person and cyber schools, as well as a higher education institution, Esperanza College, in addition to workforce development initiatives that help individuals find employment. 

Access to dignified housing is also a priority. Esperanza promotes the construction of affordable housing and supports low-income families in achieving affordable rental housing or the dream of homeownership. This work is complemented by immigration services, offering guidance and technical support to individuals seeking residency or citizenship and neighborhood outreach. “We try to be broad in how we respond to needs,” its founder emphasized, underscoring that community well-being cannot be limited to a single area but requires attention on multiple fronts.

One of the issues that most concerns the organization at this time is hunger. He expressed concern over federal cuts to food assistance programs: “For our communities, this is a disaster… I believe it is immoral to punish everyone because of a few,” he said, calling for the protection of seniors, widows, and children. 

Despite challenges facing nonprofits everywhere, Esperanza remains steadfast in its mission, working directly with families who face these realities every day demonstrating that when a community organizes, change is possible. Funds from Philly Gives will be used to address a range of needs and to continue to innovate services. 

Current challenges, resilience, and a message of hope 

Despite its long history and accomplishments, Esperanza faces significant challenges in today’s climate. One of the greatest obstacles stems from instability in government policies, particularly at the federal level. “We are living in a time when the government changes from day to day,” Cortés warned, noting that many long-standing traditions and agreements are no longer reliable. 

This situation directly impacts the Hispanic community. “Our community suffers greatly from a federal government that views us as something negative for the country’s future,” he stated. Last-minute contract cancellations and broken commitments create uncertainty for both organizations and the families they serve. 

Even so, Esperanza’s message remains clear: giving up is not an option. The organization continues to work side by side with the community, facing the same challenges as Latino families, but with the firm belief that unity and solidarity can make a difference. 

The final call is one of action and hope. Participating in Philly Gives, donating, volunteering, or simply sharing the message are tangible ways to support a cause that transforms lives. As Esperanza’s story demonstrates, when a community rises with purpose, it can build a more dignified, just, and opportunity-filled future for all. 

Philly Gives: recognition, support, and a message of hope 

Esperanza’s recent selection as a Philly Gives beneficiary represents an important recognition of its work. “For us, the most important thing was being selected, because it recognizes that the work we are doing has value for the community,” Cortés affirmed. For the organization, this support reflects the city’s trust and gratitude toward its mission. 

The funds received through Philly Gives will be used to strengthen existing programs and address areas of greatest need. “The money will be used for Esperanza’s mission and the needs of the community,” the president assured, reiterating that the primary goal is to continue serving and generating positive impact. 

Finally, Cortés shared a message of invitation and hope with the community: “Those who know us know they can come here; those who don’t know us, we ask that they visit our website and see the programs we offer.” His message is clear: get closer, get informed, and become part of a collective effort that seeks dignity, opportunity, and a better future for all. 

With the support of initiatives like Philly Gives and the continued commitment of the community, Esperanza reaffirms its name and its mission: to build a more just, compassionate, and opportunity-filled tomorrow. 

Esperanza will participate in the Philly Gives campaign from November 1 to December 31, 2025. All donations made through phillygives.org will go directly to the selected nonprofit organizations, ensuring that 100% of the funds support essential programs.