Key to Fuerza has always been Economic Self-Sufficient Autonomy: The organization is committed to creating and maintaining alternative economic development projects to carry out their mission and to become self-sufficient. The following are programs under Fuerza Unida:
Membership & Public Education focuses on issues such as women’s and labor rights, immigration, environmental issues and health education. Fuerza Unida holds meetings and collaborates with other non-profit organizations to offer a variety of workshops, training classes and presentations focusing on issues affecting the community. Finally, Fuerza Unida includes a political/social education component to every aspect of our organization: without knowledge the people cannot move to action.
Youth Leadership Program began the summer of 2001 with 15 young students. The program was developed to empower youth to become forerunners in the struggle for social, political, environmental and economic justice. The focus of the program is to develop leadership skills in community organizing and development as well as to provide training in the sewing and culinary arts that are prevalent in the Mexican-American culture. Fuerza Unida’s vision in this program is for the young people to develop pride and respect in their work and surroundings.
Food Pantry - Because of the median household income in the south and west side communities of San Antonio, Fuerza Unida began a food pantry to assist members and families in need. According to the 2000 census report, the median income in this area is below the city’s average of $31,630. Since the programs inception, the food pantry has provided food baskets to over 75 families on a monthly basis. This program promotes cooperation and mutual aid, strengthening our ability to mobilize and take action.
These programs provide 1) opportunities for education and organizing; 2) membership recruitment and 3) job creation.