Hispanic group provides scholarships, plans closure

The NWA Hispanic Leadership Council recently awarded $120,000 in scholarships to 30 college students. According to a news release, the council will cease operations at the end of this year.

The council provided 30 Latinx on the Rise scholarships to students of the University of Arkansas and NorthWest Arkansas Community College. Each scholarship was for $4,000.

According to the release, the scholarships are given to first-generation students who have financial need, a solid academic record, strong community involvement and demonstrate an ability to overcome barriers to success in their educational careers. The Walton Family Foundation provided a grant for the scholarships.

After seven years of service, NWA Hispanic Leadership Council plans to close at the end of this year. Founded in 2017 and established in 2018 as a 501(c)(3), it has offered mentorship programs, paid internships and scholarships.

Irelia Navarro, head of operations for the NWA Hispanic Leadership Council, said the decision to close was not made lightly and came after carefully considering the existing nonprofit landscape and available resources to sustain programming and cover operational costs. The council wants to ensure a smooth transition for its participants and partners. All ongoing programs will continue until their conclusion, and the council will help connect participants with other resources and support networks in the region.

“We are deeply grateful for the support of our community partners, donors and volunteers,” said Pepe Estrada, president of NWA Hispanic Leadership Council. “Their generosity and commitment made our work possible and enabled us to make a real difference in the lives of many in our communities.”

The council established the first Hispanic Giving Circle in the area, awarding more than $34,000 to 12 area nonprofits. Its Latinx on the Rise Mentorship Program served 108 Latino students, paired with professionals from area companies and organizations. The paid internship program supported 43 Latino college students at area nonprofits and community organizations. The Walton Family Foundation provided a nearly $180,000 grant to support the program.