On Thursday, October 3^rd more than 450 community leaders gathered at the Minneapolis Events Center to commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month. Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan joined attendees, providing a warm welcome and joining in the celebration of the many contributions of Latinos throughout Minnesota. She expressed her ongoing support to strengthen the well-being of Minnesota’s Latino communities so that together we can build a stronger and better future for all Minnesotans.

"Tonight, we celebrate in community and want to elevate our diverse cultures and heritage,” said Ruby Azurdia-Lee, CLUES President & CEO. “We must celebrate our own community and CLUES achievements. CLUES Abriendo Caminos Clinics was certified as a Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) in Minnesota this year. This certification is a milestone for CLUES across the country, as we are one of three unique culturally centered clinics focused on serving Latinos. Next May 2025, CLUES will be opening a new childcare business hub pilot and family wellness center on the east side of Saint Paul. This pilot is an innovative solution to the cultural and linguistic barriers faced by Latino parents and Childcare Providers when seeking access to childcare and to building economic prosperity for providers”, stated Azurdia-Lee among other successful achievements

The evening was complimented by cultural performances that included a local Venezuelan group, Baila Venezuela, and soulful Tango singer Caro Bernardini.

Funds raised at this year’s Gala Latina will support purchasing healthy and cultural food distributed weekly through the CLUES Food Distribution Program, Canasta Familiar. CLUES Canasta Familiar serves over 600 families weekly and distributes over 28,000 pounds of healthy food in its Saint Paul and Minneapolis Lake Street facilities. “Canasta Familiar is a transformational service, as it helps us address holistic healthcare and health promotion along with community development. It helps us connect the community with holistic resources while integrating a sense of belonging and community networking”, said Azurdia-Lee. “Today’s investment in Canasta Familiar supports family income, and neighborhood development strategies, and helps us continue building a strong social fabric for our neighborhoods and Minnesota Latino communities,” she added.

The evening’s theme centered around “everyone can be a change agent” by donating and volunteering to Canasta Familiar. Donations are still needed to continue to provide free food to many underserved families and children. Please consider donating now. Please watch below the inspiring video about CLUES Canasta Familiar and obtain some photos of the event. 

Gracias-Thanks 2024 Sponsors! CLUES Gala Latina was made possible by our generous sponsors. Please click here to view the complete list.