The Hispanic Development Corporation was founded in 1991 in Newark’s Lower Roseville neighborhood to serve the neighborhood’s primarily low-income population. As part of the New Community Network, Hispanic Development furthers NCC’s mission, goals and objectives. It serves Hispanic employees of New Community, residents of NCC housing and the Hispanic members of St. Rose of Lima Parish.

The Hispanic Development Corporation’s objective is the spiritual, physical, social, economic and political development of Newark’s Hispanic community. It provides a wide variety of services to the Spanish-speaking community.

Advocacy is provided to residents on health, housing, employment, education and social services. English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) classes are available on a regular schedule. Seminars, workshops and classes are held to educate participants on issues related to the needs expressed by residents.

Hispanic Development Corporation’s cultural programs reflect the pride of the community and augment the self-esteem of the people. Because of the pressing need for immigration help in the community, Hispanic Development has a full-time accredited representative for the Board of Immigration Appeals.

The Corporation also conducts activities to raise public consciousness on social and political issues that affect the community. In the political arena, it works to empower the community by increasing voter registration and also facilitates the community’s presence on boards and groups that deal with neighborhood issues. Hispanic Development also advocates for human rights on all levels.

The staff is always open to sharing ideas, projects and seminars with others who minister to the Hispanic Community throughout New Jersey.

PROGRAMS

English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL):

HDC provides a full program of English classes for those who speak other languages (ESOL) and is a key part of New Community’s LEAP literacy program for adults. ESOL classes are held on the beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. There are also special enunciation classes as well as citizenship classes. Programs are held at St. Rose of Lima School, Our Lady of Good Council School and at the Hispanic Development headquarters at 563 Orange Street. Weekly sessions total eight hours. Two-hour classes are available four nights per week and a four-hour class is held on Saturdays. Classes are also held mornings and afternoons at the Hispanic Development Corporation office.

Social Services

HDC provides direction to those seeking assistance with food, shelter and job placement. Linkages are made to services within the New Community Network and to outside providers.

Cultural programs

The Hispanic Development Corporation strives to keep the various Latino cultures alive. It offers a variety of cultural events each year. These popular events include the Three Kings Party, a Multicultural Arts Festival at the New Community Pathmark, art exhibitions and Latin Nights.

Community Organizing

The Hispanic Development Corporation works actively with individual residents and resident groups to develop programs and organize the community around key issues. The Bridge Project has brought together resident groups from Newark’s West and Central Wards to improve rail overpasses in neighborhoods. It is a partnership with the New York-based Project for Public Spaces and the New Jersey Department of Transportation. Another organizing initiative, Accion en el Barrio, (Action in the Neighborhood) develops leaders among area residents.

Immigration Services

Residents who need help dealing with immigration issues can set up an appointment with Hispanic Development Corporation’s accredited immigration representative and receive the necessary help at very low cost.

For more information, please contact Geri Mulligan (973) 268-1236.