Congreso de Latinos Unidos Celebrates Staff with a Special Guest

Media Contact: Julia Rivera, 267-475-8460, riveraju@congreso.net

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Thursday, July 12, 2017

CONGRESO de LATINOS UNIDOS CELEBRATES WITH A VERY SPECIAL GUEST

PHILADELPHIACongreso employees gathered for the organization’s annual all staff day on June 30th at the scenic Bartram’s Gardens to celebrate staff accomplishments and the organization’s 40th Anniversary. An economic driver in the community, Congreso employs over 200 full-time and part-time staff. Together with Congreso Board Members, leadership and staff, the agency convened for the all staff day to reflect on the past year’s achievements and to plan for the future.

This year’s event also featured a special guest and committed community advocate. Attorney General of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Josh Shapiro joined the agency to recognize Congreso’s Esfuerzo Team. With nearly 30 years of service, Team Esfuerzo has been on the front lines combatting the HIV/AIDS epidemic, as well as drug and opioid addiction since 1988. The name “Esfuerzo,” meaning “strength” or “effort” in English, appropriately reflects the critical efforts of the Team, stated Attorney General Shapiro.

Shapiro presented each Esfuerzo Team member with a recognition stating in part, “The level of commitment and resolve from the Esfuerzo Team to do the right thing for people serves as an inspiration for the entire Commonwealth.” He then went on to congratulate Congreso in its 40th year anniversary for earning its rank amongst community organizations dedicated to empowering and celebrating diverse communities.

Carolina DiGiorgio, CEO of Congreso and the former Montgomery County Commerce Director for Shapiro, commented “Congreso has been a beacon of hope in tackling both HIV/AIDS education and outreach and the opioid crisis taking place in our own backyard. It was incredibly inspiring and encouraging to have Attorney General Shapiro dedicate his morning to highlighting the strength and hard work of Congreso staff.” According to the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, fatal drug overdoses surged to 900 in Philadelphia in 2016. Nationally, according to HIV.gov, it is estimated that more than 1.1 million people in the U.S. are living with HIV today, and 1 in 7 are unaware of their diagnosis.

The day concluded with the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful grounds at Bartram’s Gardens, a 45-acre National Historic Landmark. Congreso staff kayaked on the Schuylkill river, toured the Bartram house and grounds, and picnicked with scenic views. The event celebrated Congreso’s dedicated staff and highlighted the organization’s commitment to serve and strengthen our community.

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About Congreso: Founded in 1977, Congreso’s mission is to strengthen Latino communities through social, economic, education and health services; leadership development and advocacy. Congreso served 17,064 individuals in FY16 through its education, employment, health and social services. For more information, visit www.congreso.net or call 215-763-8870.