Boston-area Non-Profit Leader to Attend Israel Institute for Hispanic Leaders
Cambridge (December 7, 2005) Luz Santana, founding co-Director of the Cambridge-based non-profit organization, The Right Question Project (RQP), has been selected as one of fifteen Hispanic leaders from around the country to participate in a week-long Israel Institute for Hispanic Leaders. Ms. Santana was nominated for the Institute by the Jewish Community Relations Council of Greater Boston (JCRC).
The study tour is sponsored by the Jewish Council for Public Affairs and the United Jewish Communities. In addition to visiting sites of historical and religious significance, participants will have the opportunity to observe programs related to immigrant absorption, social welfare, and economic development initiatives. They will also meet with leaders in Israel's public and private sector. The Institute will provide a unique opportunity for Hispanic leaders to interact with their Israeli counterparts and to discuss cross-cultural approaches to helping at-risk communities.
"This is an unusual opportunity to look behind the headlines and get to understand better the range of social and political challenges facing people in Israel. I'm especially interested in learning about how people from different communities have a voice in the decisions being made," said Ms. Santana.
"The JCRC is committed to reaching out to other communities to create partnerships and work cooperatively. We view the Israel Institute for Hispanic Leaders as an important part of our overall strategy to build relationships in the greater Boston area," said JCRC Executive Director Nancy K. Kaufman. The group leaves for Jerusalem on December 11.
The Right Question Project empowers people in low-income communities around the country to become active citizens and better advocates for themselves and their families. Ms. Santana, a former welfare recipient, went on to receive a Master's Degree in Human Services and has been widely recognized for her innovative work. In 1991, she became an M.I.T. Community Fellow, and in 1993 was chosen as Merrimack Valley Woman of the Year. She has been a guest lecturer at area universities including the Harvard Graduate School of Education's Askwith Forum.
The JCRC promotes a society that reflects the best of American and Jewish values – in Greater Boston, Israel and around the world – by convening and mobilizing the Jewish community. Through advocacy, organizing, service and partnerships, JCRC pursues social justice, ensures a vibrant Jewish community, and builds a network of support for Israel. JCRC is part of CJP's network of learning, caring and social justice. For more information visit www.jcrcboston.org
