Learn more about La Plaza’s impact:
History, Mission & Vision
La Plaza is the longest standing Latino nonprofit in Central Indiana, established in 1971 as El Centro Hispano. The center was established to address the needs of the growing Hispanic community in Central Indiana.
In 2004, the Hispanic Education Center, FIESTA Indianapolis, and El Centro Hispano merged into La Plaza Inc., bringing together three separate long-standing resources and services into one organization to provide better and more efficient support to the Latino community of Central Indiana.
Today, La Plaza remains committed to addressing the educational, health, workforce development, and social service needs of the Latino community through collaboration with other organizations and the efficient and effective delivery of services and programs.
Since opening our doors in 1971, La Plaza has played a vibrant and trusted role in Central Indiana’s growing Latino community.
About La Plaza
La Plaza’s mission is to support and empower the Latino community of Indianapolis through advocacy, education, and services. Since our founding in 1981, La Plaza has been an integral part of the city’s Latino community, helping to break down barriers and build bridges of understanding.
Over the years, La Plaza has accomplished many important goals, including the creation of programs and services that help to address critical needs within the community. Our programs are designed to promote education and workforce development, health and wellness, youth empowerment, and legal services, among other areas.
At La Plaza, we are proud of the work that we do and the impact that we have had on the lives of so many individuals and families within the Indianapolis area. We are committed to continuing to serve the Latino community and to make a positive difference in the lives of those who need our help the most.
A brief history
1981
El Centro Hispano – American Multiservice center
1981
FIESTA Indianapolis
1988
Hispanic Education Center
2004
Consolidate into one umbrella organization that we now know as La Plaza.
2016
5 Million Dollar Lilly Endowmet
2021
La Plaza celebrated 50th Year Anniversary
PRESENT
Today, La Plaza provides comprehensive services in the areas of basic needs, youth education, and workforce development for the whole family.
OUR MISSION:
La Plaza strengthens Central Indiana by advocating and preparing Latino students for educational success and by connecting Latino families to health and social services.
OUR VISION:
La Plaza is the recognized Central Indiana leader in helping Latinos reach their full educational potential by building on their strengths and fostering self-sufficiency.
