Who we are

Our Identity
Esperanza is one of the largest Hispanic Faith-Based Evangelical networks in the country. With a national network of 12,000 faith and community-based agencies, Esperanza is one of the leading voices for Hispanics in America. We are dedicated to community development through the establishment of Hispanic owned and operated institutions that lead to the familial, economic, and spiritual enrichment of our communities.

History
Esperanza was established in 1987 when the Hispanic Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity, led by the Reverend Luis Cortés, Jr., saw the need to be proactive to the needs of the Latino community of this city. Like a tree growing stronger and bearing more fruit each year, in 2002 Esperanza expanded its reach, bringing hope to Latino communities across America through national and international initiatives.

The organization has had dramatic impact on thousands of lives and hundreds of organizations since its inception. We focus our work on five key areas: Community Development; Capacity Building; Workforce Development; Education; and Advocacy, as expressed in the National Hispanic Prayer Breakfast and Conference. Through our work, we strive to show God’s love and care by mobilizing and equipping Latino people to serve and advocate for our Hispanic community.

Mission Statement
Driven by the biblical mandate to serve and advocate for “the least of these,” we strengthen Hispanic communities.

“I assure you, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters; you were doing it to me!” (Matthew 25:40)

Core Values

Faith 
   •   We desire to show God’s love by providing humble, compassionate, 
       sacrificial service. 
   •   We believe in the transformative power of Jesus Christ that effects change and
       provides uplifting hope to the “least of these,” the underserved and marginalized
       in our community.

Integrity 
   •   We manage our operations honestly and with the highest ethical standards. 
   •   We treat clients, employees, and all stakeholders with respect and trust. 
   •   We exercise responsible stewardship of the resources entrusted to us. 
   •   We exert our influence in the pursuit of justice.

Excellence 
   •   We provide quality programs and service, and we invest in their continuous
       improvement.
   •   We see mission-driven people and promote their development in an environment 
       where they can excel.