Working closely with several University of South Florida (USF) student organizations, the HOLA foundation launched its pilot outreach program at the annual 2017 Conga Caliente festival. This student lead consortium brought six USF student organizations together to plan and design the day-long outreach and informational event for the community. Approximately 20 university students volunteered at multiple booths to provide information on educational opportunities and programs to the community. Additionally, they developed artistic crafts while raised funds, assisted in children face painting, and performed Latin salsa dances for the attendees of the festival. Based on the success of this event, USF student organization leaders have formed a university cultural outreach group to expand the participation and plan future educational programs for the HOLA foundation. We plan to expand the number of USF organizations participating at the annual Conga Caliente Festival on a greater scale. Currently, there are 9 student organizations, some of which participated in the festival, that are developing plans and programs for 2018. These organizations are as followed:
The HOLA foundation is also working with over 18 USF student ambassadors on the following community engagement initiatives:
In the planning stages of developing a partnership with the USF College of Arts faculty and staff to create service learning and community engagements opportunities for USF students. The development of student driven community outreach programs with USF’s Bulls on Broadway is also underway.
Development of an outreach cultural networking community event with three USF organizations (Boricua Student Organization [BSA], Cuban American Student Association [CASA], and Mexican American Student Association [MASA]), alongside ten USF students, to create the first Hispanic Heritage month tailgating event at Raymond James Stadium. These USF students and their respective organizations are planning the event to showcase the unity between different Hispanic cultures, in addition to promoting their solidarity with the Tampa Bay community and other USF students and alumni.
Beginning a partnership with Hillsborough County Public Schools to develop opportunities for educating through the arts starting in the Fall of 2018. This initiative will entail having USF student organizations develop presentations, performances, and mentoring opportunities with high school and middle school students.
In planning stages of, alongside private sector partners, identifying funding for a USF student community ambassador internship, as well as a HOLA Cultural Arts scholarship program. These initiatives will provide students community internship opportunities in the arts, creating mentorships with high school students, and promoting an annual student scholarship fund that will invest in maintaining the diverse and rich culture of the Americas that are the historical fabric of Tampa Bay.