News

“13 years ago, who could have known that life was quietly preparing me to lead such an iconic, important Latina-led women’s organization? (photo on the left, at a Latinas Unidas networking event at Wegmans conference center). I’ve been a proud member of Latinas Unidas even longer, working behind the scenes with founding members, long-standing Latina leaders, and dedicated board members—each shaping my journey and this organization in their own way.

I’m open to new, innovative ideas as we step into a new era, but I do so with immense gratitude for the women who have trusted me, poured into me, and led by example. It is because of them that I take on this role with confidence and vision.

I’m not sure how long this season will last for me as president (photo below, at the MAG Latino Family Day 2024), but I am deeply committed to connecting services, fostering networks, and ensuring that the face of Latinas in our region is seen, represented, and valued—whether behind the scenes, as I’ve always been, or in the unforeseen forefront.

To God be all the glory, who blesses us with the gifts to do good and spread positivity.“

Raquel (Serrano) Singletary
Latinas Unidas Chair

As we prepare for our annual luncheon, I’m curious and thrilled about this year’s theme: “Latinas Futuristas: Shaping Tomorrow, Today.” This phrase inspires me, and I feel a deep sense of excitement every time I hear it. For me, it speaks to our power and influence—not only in our families and communities but also in every field we enter, every challenge we tackle, and every opportunity we create. It reminds me of the strength I see in all of you and the incredible potential we have to shape the future.

This theme has our board and me reflecting deeply on the future we are shaping for ourselves and the generations to come. But it’s not just about our vision—it’s about hearing from all of you!

For some, "Latinas Futuristas" might carry different meanings, or perhaps it's the first time you're considering your identity as a Latina and the impact you're having on your Latinitas, and the way you're empowering those around you. We want to know how you see yourself and how you’re contributing to our collective future.

What does "Latinas Futuristas" mean to you? What images, hopes, or ideas come to mind? Whether you're a student, a professional, a community leader, or simply someone who feels connected to our mission, we want to hear how you envision yourself and our community as part of the future!

1. Do you think of this as a call to break new ground in your career?
2. Do you feel inspired to mentor younger Latinas and show them what’s possible?
3. Or maybe you envision Latinas in every space, proudly rooted in our heritage while moving forward with confidence and vision.

These thoughts will help us shape our event on December 11th to reflect who we are and the impact we’re making. Our goal is to gather and showcase perspectives from our Latinas Unidas family at the luncheon. Hearing from you will add depth and meaning to the conversation and celebrate our collective strength and dreams.

So, I invite you to share your thoughts on what “Latinas Futuristas: Shaping Tomorrow, Today” means to you. Email us, message us on social media, or even pull me aside when you see me. Your voice is powerful, and we look forward to celebrating each and every one of you as we come together for this inspiring event.

You can purchase your tickets here for our annual luncheon Latinas Unidas Reconocimiento and Scholarship Awards.

With anticipation,

Raquel.

Raquel Singletary
Latinas Unidas President
Latinas Unidas Reconocimiento Committee Co-Chair
reconocimiento@LatinasUnidas.org

Latinas Unidas is excited to announce that sponsorship opportunities are now open for our 2024 Reconocimiento & Scholarship Awards Annual Event! This event is a chance to celebrate and honor the achievements of Latina women and young Latinas in our community, and we invite you to join us as a sponsor to help make it an unforgettable experience.

Why Become a Sponsor?

1. Create a Lasting Impact:

Your sponsorship directly supports scholarships and empowerment programs that help Latinas achieve their educational and career goals.

2. Build Connections and Networks:

Engage with community leaders, advocates, and supporters who are all committed to advancing the success of Latinas.

3. Gain Meaningful Visibility:

Sponsoring this event connects your brand with a dedicated and engaged audience through our various platforms.

Sponsorship Levels

We offer two sponsorship levels designed to make a powerful impact while being attainable. Even a modest contribution can significantly contribute to advancing our mission.

For more details on sponsorship benefits, please contact us at Lu.reconocimento@gmail.com to request our Sponsorship Package. The deadline to confirm your pledge is November 29, 2024.

Join Us on December 11 – Tickets Available Now!

Join us in person at our annual luncheon on December 11 from 11:00 am to 2:00 pm at DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Henrietta. This gathering will provide a firsthand look at how Latinas Unidas empowers our community. If a sponsorship isn’t possible this year, consider purchasing a ticket or reserving a table to experience the impact and celebrate with us. Click here to learn more and secure your spot.

Thank you for considering this opportunity to partner with us in advancing Latina empowerment. Your support can make a difference!

Announcing the four Latina Award winners----

Irene Sanchez - Inspirational Leadership Award

Maria Cubillos Reed -Professional Achievement Award

Estella Velez Upegui - Volunteer Service Award

Kaysali Morales - Young Latina Leader Award

To see how we notified them through a personal surprise visit, go to our Facebook page. Click here for the LU Facebook page. Their reactions were priceless. 

Latinas Unidas is seeking nominations for our 2023 Annual Latina Reconocimiento Awards. These awards recognize the contributions and accomplishments of local Latinas.  

Award Categories:    

• Professional Achievement
• Inspirational Leadership 
• Volunteer Service
• Young Latina Leader

The mission of Latinas Unidas is to foster opportunities that promote unity, cultural identity and the presence of the Latina woman in the community. We encourage and motivate women to be proud of themselves and to assume active and positive roles in society.  The Reconocimiento Awards is our way of recognizing these accomplishments in a public forum.  

The winners will be recognized at the 30th Reconocimiento and Scholarship Awards Pearl Anniversary Gala on Saturday, December 2, 2023, 6 p.m., at Arbor at the Port of Rochester (1000 North River Street, Rochester, NY 14612).

Click here to submit your nomination online.

The Reconocimiento Awards recognize the contributions and accomplishments of local Latinas

Award Categories:

• Professional Achievement
• Inspirational Leadership
• Volunteer Service
• Young Latina Leader

The mission of Latinas Unidas is to foster opportunities that promote unity, cultural identity and the presence of the Latina woman in the community. We encourage and motivate women to be proud of themselves and to assume active and positive roles in society. The Reconocimiento Awards is our way of recognizing these accomplishments in a public forum.

Click here to submit your nomination online.

The winners will be recognized at the Reconocimiento and Scholarship Awards (RaSA) on Thursday, November 17, 2022 at the Harro East Ballroom.

Latinas Unidas' Annual Membership Meeting will be held virtually on Wednesday, December 2nd, 2020 at 6pm.  

All members in good standing are invited to participate in this members-only meeting.  They will have the opportunity to vote for new board members, meet other members virtually, and provide input on matters related to Latinas Unidas, your organization.

If you are a member, please check your email, as invitations have been sent. You can also login on our website and check the calendar for details on how to register and connect the day of the meeting (members-only events do not show in the public calendar but only after you login to your account).

How do you know if you are a member in good standing? Easy! Login into our website using the same email you normally receive communications from Latinas Unidas and view your profile to check your membership is up to date.

If you have never logged into our website you can click here for instructions on how to login and check the status of your membership.

To register by email, please send an email to secretary@LatinasUnidas.org, you would then receive the zoom information for the meeting. 

Not a member? Join us! We have different membership levels starting from a basic free membership to corporate sponsors.

We are celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month highlighting Latinas that are making a difference in our community.

Kudos to them for going the extra mile!

September 16: Diana Casais-Almanza

Within the frame of Mexico's Independence Day, on September 16 we celebrated Diana Casais-Almanza. This Latina from Mexico living in Rochester is a writer, teacher, interpreter, and the founder of book club El Cafecito Literario. This club engages fans of literature in Spanish into monthly discussions, good conversation and camaraderie. Under Diana's watch it has grown an international circle of over 100 members from Mexico, the U.S., among others, since its beginning 10 years ago.

Thank you Diana for promoting Hispanic culture and language through good literature.

September 15: Tatiana Warren

In honor of Costa Rica's Independence Day on September 15 we highlighted local tica Tatiana Warren, owner of Pura Vida Ville restaurant, serving Mexican and Costa Rican food in Rochester, NY.

Tatiana donated meals to seniors right when the pandemic hit, before they had to close for the quarantine.

Best wishes, Tatiana! Looking forward to a soon reopening of your restaurant.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of Latinas Unidas, we regret to announce that the ¡Soy Unica! ¡Soy Latina! Rally (SUSL) on Saturday, May 2 at Rochester Institute of Technology, has been canceled. While the LU Board and the rally committee are very disappointed that our event will not take place as planned, we understand and prioritize the health of our community and families, and so we are taking the appropriate measures to help prevent the spread of COVID19.

We look forward to another successful Rally in the near future.

Sincerely, 

Joann Santos                   

President Latinas Unidas

Jeanette Perez-Colby

Dr. Marielena Vélez de Brown

Co-Chairs, ¡Soy Única! ¡Soy Latina! Rally 2020