Alianzas: Southwest Region

Facilitating partnerships with Hispanic/Latino communities in Missouri

SOUTHWEST REGION

Fiscal Year 09
In January 2009, a grant supported the development of a Spanish Health Literacy DVD entitled Rainbow Soup that aims to inform low-literacy residents about basic nutrition and hygiene. The DVD was previewed at the Eighth Annual Conference Change of Colors/Cambio de Colores last May. This short instructional video highlights the importance of nutrition, hand washing, and exercise as parts of a healthy lifestyle. The Health Departments in Missouri will receive complimentary copies and additional copies will also be available for purchase at www.ozarkregionalalliance.org.

An Extension Regional Specialist volunteers his time to facilitate English classes in Branson that help Hispanic residents improve their communication skills, thus promoting harmony in their community and workplace.

Two Regional Specialist participated in the Alianzas Cultural Academy.

Fiscal Year 06-07
In October 2006, Alianzas awarded $3,000 to support the one-day conference "Cambio de Colores (Change of Colors) in Southwest Missouri," for University of Missouri Extension, community leaders, and residents on current research and best practices regarding Hispanic/Latino immigration to southwest Missouri.

As a result, University of Missouri Extension, community leaders, and residents were afforded the opportunity to become aware of and learn about the Hispanic/Latino culture and the belief systems that are emerging in southwest Missouri. Furthermore, they were presented with resources and best practices available in the state to accommodate the unmet challenges of Hispanic/Latino immigrants and the communities that receive them. Ultimately, the capacity of University of Missouri Extension and its campus partners was enhanced to more effectively and efficiently respond to the needs of Hispanic/Latino populations in southwest Missouri.

Fiscal Year 05-06
In February 2006, Alianzas awarded $3,000 to support mileage, training, and other logistical needs to sustain University of Missouri Extension and community partnerships that promote Alianzas initiatives.

As a result, the capacity of University of Missouri Extension and its campus partners was afforded the opportunity to more effectively and efficiently respond to the needs of Hispanic/Latino residents in the southwest region, as well as the communities that receive them.

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