hccstl.com
2023 3RD EDITION
En Contacto
From left to right: Lisa Harp, Senior Records Management Analyst at Ameren; Vicki Arroyo, Inventory Specialist and Assistant Buyer for Ameren; Tamara Avila, Associate Engineer for Ameren Transmission; Tony Lozano, Director, Energy Solutions for Ameren Missouri.
BOARD OF
DIRECTORS JOSE PONCE JOMO CASTRO SISI BELTRAN GABRIEL CARDENAS ALEJANDRA BERRA CLAUDIO ABREU
EDITORIAL
NATALIA CORRAY ROBERT CLARK SUZANNE SIERRA ELIAS CORPAS AINETTE MARTINEZ CLAUDIA OCHOA-ESPEJO NOLAN RUIZ MARTHA MENDEZ-FISCHER
TEAM
MIGUEL RINCAND FERNANDA ESTRADA-RIDAURA 2023 3rd edition En Contacto Total or partial reproduction of the content, images, texts, designs, and photographs is prohibited without publisher authorization.
The magazine should not be considered a fundamental, main, or single source of information. This publication may vary without notice, including between the time that the article was made and The information and content of until the moment of the magazine the articles are the responsibility publication. of the authors. The information and data contained in this The citations of opinions and/or publication are for informational comments of people contained purposes only, being able to in this publication, were made vary from time to time. independently by themselves. Connect with us! Send us your comments and suggestions at: mrincand@hccstl.com
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2023 3rd Edition
HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
WELCOME
TO THE HCC FAMILY Join us in congratulating our new and returning members! The following individuals and companies have decided to make/ continue an investment in the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and the St. Louis community at large. We encourage you to learn more about them and find ways to collaborate or utilize their services whenever possible. If you would like more information about any of these individuals or organizations, please contact us at 314.664.4432. vAll Star Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram
vInternational Schoolhouse
vASP Enterprise
vJuntos Adelante
vBeyond Housing
vMario Santander
vBJC Healthcare
vMcKendree University
v Black Magic—The Santana Experience
v National Association of Hispanic Real Estate Professional Saint Louis (NAHREP)
vBrandversity LLC vColumbia College
vNine PBS
vCleanisa
vNu-Calgon Wholesaler, Inc
vCrepes & Treats LLC
vRaceway Gives
vChandler Hill Vineyards v Daniela Petit/Pro Shine Services Cleaning vEU FOODS LLC vFarmers Insurance—Roberto Rosales vFCB Banks vFCON Construction vGreen & Happy Lawn Services LLC vIman Promos and Mkt LLC
vRené Morency vSafe Connections vSur Creations, LLC vStone Turtle vTeam Central Gymnastic Academy 501 C-3 vThe Biome School vThunderstone Logistics vUnreleased Grounds, LLC vVMO Ops Inc DBA Viola STL
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LETTER FROM THE
PRESIDENT & CEO So many positive and wonderful things are happening at your HCC. We launched a new brand, celebrated our community at Adelante, welcomed many new members, and made it to the “pitch” at STL City SC for Hispanic Heritage Month to be honored as an “Exceptional Neighbor”. We are recognized and more importantly celebrated for our contributions as an economic and social power in the St. Louis community. It is fitting that our feature story in this issue is Ameren, our STL energy provider, as our new theme is “energízate con la camara” (Your HCC Energized). We have a new energy at the chamber, in our business community and in the STL Hispanic community. Be on the lookout for HCC ads about our successful members next year on Telemundo and other STL media. Our priority is to promote and advance the many positive contributions of Hispanic/ Latinos in the STL metro and beyond.
We are positive contributors to our economy and we need to shout it proudly and loudly. There’s a new energy of promise. Promise of business growth opportunities. Promise of collaborative efforts with our Latino/Hispanic partner organizations. Promise of advancement for career professionals. Promise of more work for our skilled labor force. Promise of a brighter future for us all — in St. Louis. Martha Garcia Kampen President & CEO Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro St. Louis.
3 Welcome to the HCC Family 4 Letter from the President & CEO
2023 3RD EDITION
5
Your Stereo Voice
6 Member Shout-Out 8
SHPE St. Louis Gateway Professional
9 Juntos Adelante 10 Gals on Green 11 Affinia Healthcare 12 HLI Reunion 14 Hispanic Cultural Celebration 16 Ameren is a Platinum Member 20 Golf Tournament 22 Adelante Awards 24 Rose River Consulting 26 Everything We Offer 27 Connect with Us on Social Media
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HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
MARIA BARRANGAN, OWNER OF PAN PA TI, STARTED HER JOURNEY IN 2014 WHEN SHE DECIDED TO LEAVE VENEZUELA AND GO TO IRELAND TO LEARN ENGLISH. Even though I was scared, and my family didn’t want me to move so far away I knew it was going to be okay. Leaving my family wasn’t easy, I think it was one of the hardest things I’ve had to do in my life. Knowing I was going to a country where people speak a different language, where the weather is different and where I’d be thousands of miles away from my hometown, was very hard. I put my faith in God and in myself, and that helped me keep moving forward. Today, I can say it was the best decision I have ever taken, Ireland opened doors for me, and I achieved one of my dreams. One of them was being able to come to the U.S. and I was able to accomplish that by getting my Visa. I became a resident of this country in 2017. I have worked as a waitress, housekeeping, daycare and even delivery services. It wasn’t the type of job I envisioned for myself, but it taught me that anything can be achieved with hard work.
Pan Pa’ Ti started during Covid in November of 2020, in a small house kitchen inside an apartment and with KitchenAid as my assistant. We would have never imagined the need there is for Venezuelan bread. The wave of people that started to call for “cachitos” “pan de jamón” sweet bread and much more was incredible! Since then, we have not stopped, we have actually added other types of bread to our menu. We have grown tremendously thanks to God, and now we are in a commercial kitchen in Chesterfield. We want to start to offer pick-up orders and eventually delivery. Offering catering is something else we hope we can do later. We are very proud of the recognition from the people. We even got recognition from Fox2News where we were invited to talk about our Venezuelan bread! We are extremely thankful to be able to share with people a piece of our culture through our breads.
Ever since I was little, I’ve loved cooking, and I have always been creating and preparing different kinds of food for my family. The need to remember those moments at home creating and making tortas for my family is what keeps me going. My husband tries all my food, he used to tell me to do more “tortas” because they were delicious. I kept telling him no, it wasn’t the right moment. Your Stereo Voice 5
HOW TO REDUCE YOUR BUSINESS FINANCIAL LIABILITIES
MEMBERS
SHOUT-OUT 6
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HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
HRC Consultants, LLC (BBB A+ Rating) offers labor standards compliance (statutory and regulatory) consultation services. Labor standards compliance refers to the adherence of employers, organizations, or businesses to local, national, and international labor laws and regulations. These standards are in place to protect the rights and well-being of workers. To prioritize business growth, it is essential to periodically conduct compliance risk management audits of your employee compensation packages. In situations where non-compliance is identified, implementing corrective action can reduce financial liability. Why should business owners be concerned about wage and hour compliance and/or investigations? If a business owner is found not to be in legal compliance, it can hurt the reputation of your business brand, and have a negative impact on your customer sales. Furthermore, it can result in legal fees, liquidated damages, civil monetary penalties, possible employee civil case lawsuit or criminal charges. Sonia Granados (Spanish Speaker) is a retired U.S. Department of Labor — Wage & Hour Division (DOL-WHD) consultant with over 26 years of subject matter experience: Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA); Child Labor (CL), Davis-Bacon and Related Acts (DBRA); McNamara-O’Hara Service Contract Act (SCA); Walsh-Healey Public Contracts Act (PCA); Contract Work Hours and Safety Standards Act (CWHSSA); Copeland “Anti-Kickback Act; Immigration Visa Programs, such as: H-1B, H-2A, and H-2B. HRC Consultants, LLC is offering Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Metro St. Louis (HCC) members a complimentary 30-minute overview session (offer expires March 31, 2024). Make an appointment by calling 314.539.1186 or email: hrcllcstl@gmail.com
THE E-LEARNING REVOLUTION LANDED IN THE LOU We had a chat with Walter Gil, Managing Director of EDUCAPOLIS LLC, an E-Learning education platform, settled in Missouri. Walter explained that EDUCAPOLIS looks for providing educational content to the Hispanic community of St. Louis and the region, pursuing to fit people’s needs referred to improve their knowledge in different matters. Their model is very simple but also different: they find a matter of general interest (it can be related to family finances, access to credit, informatics 101, among others).
the best delivery model: recording an expert? building a “talking avatar”? including games? etc. Then the magic starts: “Lights, Camera, Action!”, after producing the content, they publish it on their online platform, ready to be attended by the community. But, does it have a cost? Walter shouts a rotund “No! they are for free!”.
Once defined the best courses, they go to the experienced companies on the said matter. Depending on the target market, they decide together
Walter states “Education makes the difference in the people. We are here to shrink the gap between who has the knowledge and who needs it”.
Chandler Hill Vineyards is a locally owned winery situated on forty-five acres of rolling hills in Defiance. This breathtaking property is just a ten-minute drive from Highway 40. Chandler Hill Vineyards has been a popular destination for 15 years due to their ability to provide an upscale experience with elevated wine and menu choices in a comfortable atmosphere.
There is also a 3200 square foot deck that overlooks the beautiful vineyard and foliage, as well as private cabana rentals located in the vineyard to enjoy during warmer weather.
The expansive tasting room boasts a two-story stone fireplace, an abundance of indoor seating for the colder months, and is open year-round for guests to enjoy.
Please contact Brooke Miller at 636.798.2675 ext. 121 for additional event information.
The money is provided by NGO and organizations focused on helping the community which give the funds for this educational creative cycle.
Chandler Hill Vineyards hosts numerous events from weddings, rehearsal dinners, private and corporate events, wine tastings, monthly wine dinners, birthday parties and showers.
Member shout-out 7
SHPE, FORMERLY KNOWN AS THE SOCIETY OF HISPANIC PROFESSIONAL ENGINEERS, IS A NATIONAL NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION DEDICATED TO THE DEVELOPMENT AND ADVANCEMENT OF HISPANIC AND LATINOS(AS) IN SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATHEMATICS (STEM).
As of 2023, SHPE is comprised of over 14,000 members and a total of 276 combined student and professional chapters across the U.S. The SHPE Saint Louis Gateway Professional chapter was founded in 2004 by a group of local engineers who sought to expand SHPE to St. Louis. As one of two professional chapters in Missouri, we currently serve members from a variety of technical industries and partner with local SHPE collegiate chapters and the St. Louis community. We come together driven by our vision for a world where Hispanics and Latinos(as) are highly regarded and hold substantial influence as the leading innovators, scientists, mathematicians, and engineers.
WHAT DO WE DO? 1. P romote the development of
Hispanics and Latinos(as) in STEM professions through educational, career, and leadership workshops and networking events.
2. W ork closely with the St. Louis
Interested in getting involved in or collaborating with SHPE? We welcome you! Please contact us at ebod@shpe-stl.org.
community to promote STEM awareness, access, support, and development. For instance, one of our most influential outreach events is an event called Noche De Ciencias. The event features hands-on STEM activities, a panel of professionals to discuss STEM, motivational speakers, and English and Spanish workshops to educate parents about higher education and financial aid.
3. R aise funds to grant scholarships to graduating seniors and university/college students pursuing a degree in STEM or technical field and support programs that enhance student education goals. Since 2019, we have provided $5,000 in scholarships as a member of the Hispanic Scholarship Alliance of St. Louis.
4. E ngage with student SHPE
chapters to provide collegiate students with development workshops (e.g. resume reviews and mock interviews) and mentorship in preparation for a career in STEM.
Gerardo Garza, 2023-2024 President
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HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
BRIDGING THE FINANCIAL LITERACY GAP EMPOWERING SPANISH SPEAKERS WITH JUNTOS In today’s fast-paced world, financial ADELANTE literacy is a skill that can empower
individuals and families to navigate the complex web of personal finances successfully. However, for many Spanish speakers in the United States, this essential knowledge has often remained out of reach. Juntos Adelante is on a mission to bridge the financial literacy gap that disproportionately affects Spanish-speaking communities. Juntos Adelante believes that financial education is a fundamental right, not a privilege. Their platform offers a wide range of tools, resources, and courses specifically tailored to Spanish speakers, empowering them to make informed financial decisions and secure their financial futures. One of the key goals of Juntos Adelante is to ensure that Spanish speakers in the U.S. have access to the knowledge and tools they need to protect themselves from financial exploitation.
They provide courses that cover topics such as budgeting, savings, investments, and retirement planning, all presented in Spanish. By offering these resources, Juntos Adelante aims to empower individuals to take control of their financial destinies and avoid falling prey to predatory financial practices. Financial literacy is not just about managing money; it’s about empowering individuals to achieve their dreams and aspirations. Juntos Adelante is committed to being a beacon of financial knowledge and support for Spanish speakers, ensuring that they can build brighter and more secure futures for themselves and their families. Together, they are bridging the financial literacy gap, one informed decision at a time.
Civic Organizations 9
GALS ON
GREEN
Inaugurated in 2022, the HCCSTL Foundation Golf Clinic, known as “Gals on Green,” emerged with the mission to establish an inclusive space for women in the world of golf. Focused on Latinas and Hispanic entrepreneurs, our golf clinic strives to provide them with equal opportunities in business circles, mirroring those available to their non-Latino/Hispanic counterparts. This initiative not only addresses the financial barriers and language limitations often associated with golf but also harnesses the valuable lessons the sport imparts. Conducted over a span of two months, from August to September, each class unfolded at the country club, commencing at 5:30 pm and concluding at 6:30 pm. This year, we proudly welcomed a notable number of enthusiastic golfers to our program. The HCCSTL Golf Clinic goes beyond perfecting your swing; it extends its impact to empower participants in their professional endeavors. Our unique approach allows you to not only achieve a hole-in-one on the green but also in your business pursuits. Join us as we continue to bridge gaps, break barriers, and cultivate a community of empowered women in both golf and entrepreneurship. A special thank you to our Gold Sponsor Thompson Coburn LLP and our Silver Sponsors Missouri History Museum, Carrollton Bank and Claudia Ochoa-Espejo Edward Jones.
Programs 10
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HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
XIMENA VÁSQUEZ Realtor Broker with eXp Realty
TESTIMONY I am so glad to have been part of the girl's golf clinic. Golf used to be a male sport during the years and now women are becoming more relevant participating and representing our enormous talent and skills in this game. Being part of a ladies' group was key for me and many of us to learn the basics from professional golfers. 1-1 Coaching, and learning from others, gave me the confidence to give golf an opportunity. Each class I got the tools and practice I needed to improve my technique. As the weeks went by, I started to feel more comfortable with the class. I gained knowledge, terminology, and etiquette that I wouldn't have received if it wasn't for this clinic. The networking, where we shared what we learned, our experiences, our achievements, and our challenges were so valuable. Making new friends was one of my favorite parts. I would recommend it to any woman who's curious about golf and would like to have a fun, safe, and professional space, to consider being part of the clinic.
AFFINIA HEALTHCARE RECENTLY CELEBRATED THE OPENING OF ITS 13TH LOCATION IN FERGUSON, MO, CONTINUING A TRADITION OF PROVIDING EXCEPTIONAL CARE AND ALLEVIATING HEALTHCARE DISPARITIES AMONG THE MARGINALIZED IN OUR COMMUNITIES.
The new location is one of 13 community health centers in the St. Louis area offering primary and preventive health care. Since 1906, Affinia Healthcare has worked to alleviate healthcare disparities among minorities, the unhoused, immigrants, and other vulnerable individuals in need of high-quality healthcare. Our facilities are staffed and equipped to provide high-quality, comprehensive Primary Care Medical, Dental, Behavioral Health, Substance Use Disorder Treatment, Optometry, Audiology, Pharmacy, Lab, WIC, Interpreter services, and a wide range of Community Health services. Today, Affinia Healthcare is the healthcare home for 40,000 unique patients annually of whom over 13% identify as Hispanic/ Latino. Our clinicians and staff mirror the communities we serve. Addressing healthcare needs that disproportionally impact the communities we serve are among our primary objectives. These communities see a higher number of disparities such as premature births, lack of dental care access, deaths due to opioid use disorders and high rates of chronic illnesses. To help eliminate prenatal and infant mortality health disparities, strategic interdisciplinary teams develop, implement, and evaluate programs to address these gaps. Our prenatal care
services include individual, telehealth and group OB visit options, community health worker home visits, nutrition and breast-feeding education, and other services as needed through community partners. Affinia Healthcare has also launched a new midwifery program, an additional resource for expectant and new mothers, and their newborns. Everyone is welcome! Affinia Healthcare accepts MO HealthNet (Medicaid), Medicare, and most commercial insurance plans. Sliding fees are available for uninsured patients based on household income. Affinia Healthcare depends on a wide array of funding sources and individual donor contributions to care for the most vulnerable and disenfranchised in our community. We are tax-exempt, and nationally accredited through The Joint Commission and NCQA organizations.
For appointments, call 314.814.8700. To support our mission visit: affiniahealthcare.org/donate Health 11
CLASS XIII
HIGH SCHOOL
HISPANIC LEADERSHIP
INSTITUTE REUNION & WELCOME
ON OCTOBER 13TH, WE CELEBRATED A FANTASTIC HLI REUNION, A MOMENTOUS GATHERING THAT NOT ONLY UNITED ALUMNI FROM CLASS I TO XII BUT ALSO WARMLY WELCOMED THE INCOMING CLASS XIII OF THE PROFESSIONAL HISPANIC LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE (HLI). 12
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HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
Hosted by platinum member AnheuserBusch, a company that has been a steadfast supporter from the inception of the Professional HLI. The event unfolded as a testament to the enduring commitment to fostering Hispanic leadership in St. Louis. A highlight of the reunion was the unveiling of two groundbreaking programs — the Ambassador Program and Jovenes Profesionales, both poised to create exciting opportunities and meaningful connections for the HLI community. The Ambassador Program, a cornerstone initiative, is designed to empower HLI alumni to step into the role of proactive advocates for the Hispanic business community in St. Louis. These ambassadors, representing diverse professional backgrounds from Class I to XII, will play a pivotal role in strengthening their engagement with the foundation and supporting current participants. Central to the program is the mentorship component. Ambassadors will have the unique opportunity to serve as mentors for the current participants of HLI, sharing their experience and insights to guide the next generation of Hispanic leaders. Simultaneously, the Jovenes Profesionales initiative emerged as a vital program dedicated to nurturing emerging Hispanic leaders in the St. Louis community. This program seeks to foster connections, promote skill development, and encourage active engagement in community initiatives.
As the Hispanic community continues to grow and evolve, Jovenes Profesionales aims to be a catalyst for shaping the future leadership landscape by empowering young professionals with the tools and networks necessary for success. The HLI Reunion, hosted graciously by Anheuser-Busch, not only served as a platform for reconnecting with past cohorts and welcoming new members but also marked a pivotal moment in the evolution of the Professional Hispanic Leadership Institute.
Events 13
HISPANIC CULTURAL CELEBRATION
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HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
IN A COMMEMORATING TRIBUTE TO HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH ON SEPTEMBER 21ST, OUR ORGANIZATION EMBARKED ON AN EXCITING CHAPTER BY UNVEILING OUR RE-ENERGIZED BRAND DURING THE HISPANIC CULTURAL CELEBRATION, GRACIOUSLY HOSTED BY THE INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF ST. LOUIS. This milestone event not only marked a significant moment in our organizational history but also exemplified our commitment to honoring and embracing the rich tapestry of Hispanic culture.
A VIBRANT UNVEILING: CELEBRATING HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH AND OUR REENERGIZED BRAND!
A big part of our celebration was our Entrepreneur Resource Fair, a dynamic showcase that brought together over 20 companies passionately dedicated to empowering aspiring and existing entrepreneurs. This collaborative effort aimed to provide valuable resources, guidance, and support, fostering growth and development within the local business community. Simultaneously, our Food Festival added a delectable dimension to the celebration by featuring culinary delights from eight outstanding restaurants. Attendees were treated to a gastronomic journey, savoring the diverse flavors that reflect the richness of Hispanic cuisine. From traditional favorites to modern interpretations, the festival showcased the culinary talents that contribute to the vibrancy of our community. At the heart of the celebration was the unveiling of our revitalized brand. The vibrant colors chosen serve as more than a visual identity; they represent the essence of love, dedication, and hope that permeate the Hispanic community's various pursuits. The refreshed brand embodies a renewed commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and a shared vision for a more vibrant and dynamic St. Louis. As we move forward, we extend a warm invitation for the community to join us on this thrilling journey towards a more robust and dynamic St. Louis. Our commitment goes beyond a symbolic rebranding; it is a pledge to actively contribute to the cultural, social, and economic growth of our community. We envision a future where the vibrancy of the Hispanic heritage intertwines seamlessly with the broader St. Louis identity, creating a tapestry that reflects the strength found in unity. Through the Entrepreneur Resource Fair, Food Festival, and the unveiling of our re-energized brand, we have set the stage for a future marked by collaboration, celebration, and a shared commitment to building a more inclusive and dynamic St. Louis. Join us as we continue this exciting journey towards a brighter and more interconnected future. Events 15
INTRODUCTION TO As a major energy provider for the St. Louis area, Ameren is deeply connected to the rich diversity of our communities. We’re dedicated to powering the quality of life for our customers, employees and suppliers. That also means supporting the local business community. We have been a proud member of the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Metro St. Louis, and we look forward to partnering to help your members save energy and reduce costs, grow your business and support Hispanic professionals in our region. SUPPORTING OUR LOCAL BUSINESSES
Ameren assists local business customers through a variety of programs, including providing access to financial incentives, improving energy efficiency, transitioning to renewable energy use, and offsetting the costs of installing electric vehicle (EV) chargers. è THE BIZSAVERS PROGRAM helps
businesses and nonprofits of any size save money and improve energy efficiency.
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HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
è THE SMALL BUSINESS DIRECT INSTALL PROGRAM can also connect you with
registered service providers to help you make the most of your energy efficiency improvements. Finally, if you run a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization that supports underserved populations, the Business Social Services Program removes barriers to receiving up to 100% cash back through a simple and streamlined process. è Switching to renewable energy can
bring many benefits to your business, including lowering emissions, bolstering your company image and brand, and reaching your sustainability goals. And through Ameren Missouri’s Community Solar program, you can take part without installing a single solar panel. The percentage-based program allows customers the flexibility to subscribe up to 100% of energy usage to a shared solar system that Ameren Missouri builds, maintains, and operates. è THE CHARGE AHEAD PROGRAM helps small
businesses cover the costs of installing EV charging stations. Business customers are eligible to receive incentives of up to 50% of the total project cost. in addition to up to 30% in federal tax credits. Small businesses located in Ameren Illinois’ service territory may receive incentives for providing charging facilities under the company’s ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING PROGRAM. Charging facilities open to the public 24/7 may also qualify to receive an Illinois Charging Infrastructure Grant.
“It has been a great pleasure to work with the Ameren team on a variety of projects, including the recently completed solar panel installation at our facility that will benefit our neighborhood and help us further invest in renewable energy for the community,” said Jorge Riopedre, executive director of Delmar DivINe. “Ameren has long been a supporter of philanthropic and small business initiatives that have positively impacted our region and the Hispanic community.” EXPANDING OUR DIVERSE SUPPLIER NETWORK
As part of Ameren’s commitment to investing in the communities we serve, we’ve been exploring ways to grow our network of qualified suppliers and to provide access to opportunities for suppliers and professional service providers owned and operated by minorities, women, veterans, and LGBTQ+ individuals. Last year, we spent approximately $1.1 billion with more than 300 qualified certified diverse suppliers and continue to look for ways to provide access to opportunities for more excellent diverse local businesses. LUZCO Technologies, a St. Louisbased, woman- and minority-owned engineering and project management firm, is another example of the diverse suppliers in our network.
Owner Lusnail Rondón Haberberger started her company in 2017 and soon connected with the Supplier Diversity team to take on Ameren projects. “Ameren has been our biggest champion,” Haberberger said. “As a Venezuelan-American woman and an electrical engineer, I believe diversity is critical to delivering the best outcomes for clients and communities. Ameren has shown us they feel the same way.” ENGAGING AMEREN CO-WORKERS AND THE HISPANIC COMMUNITY
At Ameren, we value diverse experiences and perspectives and are aiming to cultivate an inclusive workplace that provides equal access to opportunity for all. We’ve built a culture that promotes DE&I through our many initiatives, including implicit bias training, leadership training opportunities and educating and inspiring co-workers at our annual DE&I Leadership Summit.
For example, we have an ERG dedicated to people with an interest in sustainability, two groups for women, and five groups dedicated to our multicultural employees — including the Ameren Group of Integrated Latino Employees (AGILE). Ameren co-workers launched AGILE in 2017, and they have been organizing educational events, volunteering and doing community outreach to help bridge language gaps and celebrate their cultures. AGILE has hosted company and public events exploring complex topics, like immigration, to bring more understanding and awareness of the issues that impact the Hispanic community every day. They are always seeking new ways to support and elevate the Hispanic community through events and partnerships. If you have an idea for how AGILE can partner with your organization, contact AGILEBoard@ameren.com.
One of our largest initiatives has been the establishment of 13 employee resource groups (ERGs), which are formalized groups open to all employees to choose from based on their backgrounds or interests. The ERGs create opportunities for members to support one another, educate other Ameren employees, and get involved in the community. Ameren is a platinum member 17
Tony Lozano was still early in his Ameren career when he first connected with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce and enrolled in the Latino Leadership Institute (the predecessor to today’s Hispanic Leadership Institute) more than 10 years ago. Through the nine-month program, Tony took part in classes covering topics including emotional intelligence and economic development and took advantage of the Chamber’s networking opportunities.
TONY LOZANO
Director of Energy Solutions for Ameren Missouri
“While I’m not first-generation Latino, most of the people from my class were, and it was wonderful to see the perspectives from my peers who are from other Hispanic countries,” said Tony. Tony was inspired to apply his experiences from the Latino Leadership Institute to Ameren’s newly created AGILE group for Latino employees, along with numerous other opportunities.
Lisa Harp manages records compliance and retention at Ameren, where she has been serving as the AGILE vice president since 2022. Ameren has a variety of diversity initiatives that have earned many national awards (including the DiversityInc Hall of Fame and Great Place to Work certification), which have attracted new and diverse talent from all over the world. Lisa believes that is where AGILE and other employee resource groups shine. “AGILE has been such a valuable resource for Ameren’s Hispanic employees, especially those who moved to St. Louis to work here,” said Lisa. “They may not have an immediate support system, and AGILE helps them create that.” “As the daughter of a Mexican immigrant, I heard the stories of how my father struggled to seek out a network and the ways he would distinguish himself from prejudices about Mexican heritage to further his career opportunities,” added Lisa. “Initiatives at Ameren allow employees to be embraced and accepted for their talents and contributions, regardless of heritage.” 18
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He has been involved in various AGILE events, on panels covering topics like immigration and as a speaker on topics such as leadership, emotional intelligence and a mentor in many different mentorship programs. In 2019, AGILE presented him with the Authentic Leadership Award for his commitment to leadership and providing professional development for his fellow employees. This year, Tony is proud to join the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s Board of Directors. “I’m very passionate about helping to create opportunities for the very talented people of our community,” said Tony. “I’m looking forward to finding new ways to provide support and help our people thrive.”
As an extension of Ameren and AGILE’s commitment to the Hispanic community, they recently partnered with the Make-AWish Foundation in support of their St. Louis Walk for Wishes fundraiser—the largest in the country— and the Migrant & Immigrant Community Action (MICA) Project for a speaker series on immigration. In 2022, AGILE also volunteered with LifeWise StL to pack and deliver meals to local families. “To volunteer for this right after COVID was eye-opening for me and my colleagues,” said Lisa. “We encountered many Spanish speakers as we delivered meals and saw how the Hispanic community was being impacted. It reinforced how important it is for us to be active in the community, bridging language barriers.” Lisa attended the Hispanic Chamber’s Adelante Awards last year and is looking forward to finding new ways for AGILE to partner with Hispanic-owned businesses and community organizations in the future.
HISPANIC CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
LISA HARP
Senior Records Management Analyst at Ameren
Tamara Avila knows how important it is for Hispanic and Latino people to have access to opportunities to help them succeed in their careers. Before graduating from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) in December 2021, she was involved with every Hispanic and Latino group on or near the school. She joined the Latino co-ed fraternity, Alpha Psi Lambda, and began volunteering at events like the Chamber’s Adelante Awards. She joined Ameren’s co-op program for students in January 2020, and represented Ameren at the Chamber’s career fair.
TAMARA AVILA
Transmission Line Maintenance Engineer at Ameren
“In college, volunteering with the Hispanic Chamber was important to me because it gave me exposure to other professionals,” said Tamara. “I knew I needed to network and find the people who could see something in me, who would give me a chance.”
Tamara started her full-time role as a transmission line maintenance engineer at Ameren in January 2022, and has continued to volunteer with the Chamber as well as AGILE. Now that she has found her career, she is focused on helping others gain access to opportunities and realize their potential. “My parents are very traditional, firstgeneration immigrants, and I’ve always been the type of person who chooses to work instead of doing nothing, like wasting time watching TV,” Tamara said. “I knew I’d be an entrepreneur. Through the Chamber, I met a lot of successful Hispanic business owners, and they were really inspiring. I hope I can encourage others to develop their own business passions.”
When Vicki Arroyo isn’t purchasing materials for Ameren’s energy centers, she’s leading AGILE as the group’s president. In addition to planning events and activities for employees, Vicki works closely with other Ameren departments to identify opportunities for the company to get involved within the Hispanic community, from sponsoring and volunteering at local events to organizing philanthropic fundraisers. For example, during the holiday season, Vicki and fellow Ameren employees offer translation services to local Spanish-speakers who are doing their holiday shopping. Vicki and her team recently hosted Ameren’s Hispanic Heritage Celebration — an opportunity for co-workers to learn more about the Hispanic culture.
They attended a talk from the International Institute of St. Louis, experienced Mexican folklore dancers, enjoyed food from Rosalita’s Cantina and El Chico’s Bakery, and participated in a loteria to win books by Hispanic authors.
VICKI ARROYO
Assistant Buyer at Ameren
“Membership and participation are growing with each event,” Vicki said. “We’re showing our co-workers and the public a different side of the Hispanic community — that we’re also professionals. Whether we immigrated or were born here, we’re very proud of our heritage and culture, and we enjoy sharing it with others.”
Ameren is a platinum member 19
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ANNUAL FOUNDATION
On September 27th at Forest Park with over 200 golfers, we joyously celebrated our 17th HCCSTL Foundation Golf Classic! In this 17th year, the Golf Classic Tournament achieved remarkable success, raising over $33,000.
Classic
Distinguished as one of the exclusive programs in our region, our commitment lies in channeling resources to nurture aspiring students. Our aim is to cultivate a multitude of forward-thinking business leaders, fortifying Hispanic representation not only within the St. Louis business sector but also extending influence beyond its borders. These funds are instrumental in sustaining our Foundation programs, which are the Professional Hispanic Leadership Institute and the High School Hispanic Leadership Institute. These programs educate and empower not only current Hispanic business leaders in the St. Louis area, but also young future leaders. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation and enthusiastic participation in the HCCSTL Foundation Golf Classic this year. Your steadfast support proved instrumental in the triumph of this event. As we reflect on this success, we eagerly anticipate the prospect of continuing our collaborative endeavors. Together, we aspire to nurture growth, leadership, and prosperity within the Hispanic community, not just in St. Louis but also in broader spheres.
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Events 21
On the enchanting evening of October 27th, at 7 pm, the 2023 HCCSTL Adelante Awards unfolded at the Chase Park Plaza. This magical night was an ode to wonder, dance, and celebration, honoring individuals whose contributions have been truly invaluable to both the St. Louis Community and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Eight exceptional winners were bestowed with the prestigious Adelante Awards, representing excellence across various categories, including Member of the Year, Hispanic Company of the Year, Emerging New Leader, New Business, Civic Award of the Year, and more. The event pulsated with vibrant energy, highlighted by an aweinspiring keynote address from Luciano Salvatierra, Vice President Renewable Fuels at Bunge. His exceptional speech not only captivated the audience but also served as a rallying call to action, urging everyone to persist in their efforts towards creating a more inclusive and vibrant St. Louis for the Hispanic/Latino Community. The evening was a testament to the dedication and passion that propels positive change within the community, marking a significant milestone in the celebration of excellence and commitment.
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Adelante 2023 Awards Winners Member of the year: Johny Sanchez, BMO Bank Hispanic Emerging Business: Azteca Insurance LLC Hispanic Emerging Young Leader: Ben Molina Cortex Innovation Community Hispanic Business person: Raul Morales, Cesamo Coatings Inc. Civic Award of the year: Suzanne Sierra, St. Louis Mosaic Project & STL Santos Company of the year: Meneses Engineering Hispanic Lifetime Achievement: Diego Abente, Casa de Salud
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In the summer of 2023, Maria I. Rosario, the dynamic ‘Head of Chaos’ at Rose River Consulting, embarked on a journey, not just to start a boutique marketing firm, but to realize a profound vision. This vision? To forge a powerful connection between brands and the vibrant St. Louis community. Rose River has quickly become more than just a marketing consultancy; it’s a vital lifeline for businesses and nonprofits striving to make a meaningful impact.
ROSE
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CONSULTING
Rose River stands out for its bilingual skills and Maria’s unwavering dedication to her clients. With a personal touch on every project, Maria ensures that strategies are tailor-made to suit each client’s unique needs. Her partnership with innovative companies like Aki’tá Labs (storican.me/@akita) exemplifies her commitment to providing affordable AI solutions. This offering compliments a suite of comprehensive services at Rose River, including social media management, content creation, marketing automations, and CRM setup, management, and optimization. Maria is particularly adept at understanding the challenges faced by nonprofits and Hispanic-owned businesses. Her expertise in crafting compelling narratives and digital strategies effectively amplifies her clients’ messages and reach. It’s all about giving a voice to those working tirelessly to make a difference.
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At the heart of Rose River is a deep connection to the community. Drawing from her Puerto Rican heritage, Maria leads with “amor y dedicación” (love and dedication). Her support for organizations like the Puerto Rican Society and House of Miles East St. Louis embodies her commitment to cultural and community enrichment. Building bridges isn’t just about business growth; it’s about community growth. Maria warmly invites you to discover what Rose River Consulting can do for your business or nonprofit. From developing a robust social media presence to creating engaging content and implementing effective CRM strategies, her holistic approach ensures that your organization is not just seen, but truly heard. Are you ready to elevate your marketing strategy? Maria offers a free one-hour consultation to review your current marketing approach and discuss the next steps for your venture. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your impact. Visit roserivermarketing.com or scan the QR code in this article to schedule your session. Investing in marketing with Rose River means investing in your business, your cause, and your community. This belief drives every strategy, campaign, and success story at Rose River Consulting.
SCAN ME
CONNECT WITH US ON SOCIAL MEDIA
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WHAT MEMBERSHIP CAN DO FOR YOU The Hispanic Chamber provides you and your organization with programs and events, unique business connections, promotion opportunities, and educational tools to grow. We are open to Hispanic and NonHispanic companies, organizations, and professionals. Some of the Benefits:
NETWORKING AND REFERRALS Business After Hours: These events are meant to connect our members in a lively and friendly atmosphere. BAH events are designed to encourage networking and help build stronger relationships with the business community. Our BAH’s are held every 3rd Thursday of each month. They are hosted by an active member of the Chamber, providing a unique experience in the selected location. In addition, we can help you make connections with other of our members through a personal referral.
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WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT We bring job seekers and employers together at our annual Job Fair. This is the job fair to attend if you are looking to attract more diverse talent for your company or organization. Additionally, post job vacancies on our public job board. We also feature them in our e-newsletter and social media platforms.
BUSINESS PROGRAMS We provide business education through keynote presentations, hands-on activities, table discussions, webinars and networking opportunities.
PROMOTION
Please reach out to Alejandra Niño, Membership & Engagement Manager, at anino@hccstl.com or at 314.666.4432 Ext. 1 if you have any questions or would like to learn more.
HCC’s digital platforms give you access to promote your business to several thousand people. This is an opportunity for us to amplify member events, accomplishments, deals, promotions, or anything they want the public to know or learn. Moreover, take the starring role in Cámara en Vivo-EL Show and/or in Members on Air-An HCCSTL Podcast. We will help you magnify yourself and your organization through HCC’s social media, website, e-newsletter, and our member-only platform.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU TO THIS ENERGIZED CHAMBER! What we offer 27
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Allen Roofing & Siding All Star Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram American Family Insurance Bank of America Ben Hur Construction BJC HealthCare BMO Bank Breakthru Beverage Missouri LLC Busey Bank Carmody MacDonald Carrollton Bank Central Bank of St. Louis CIBC Columbia College Commerce Bank Dot Foods FCB Banks First Bank Four Seasons Hotel St. Louis Frick's Quality Meats Inc Garcia Properties Grey Eagle Distributors Home Depot Keeley Construction Lindenwood University Luxco, Inc. Luzco Technologies, LLC Mid-America Carpenters Regional Council Midland States Bank Midwest BankCentre Mississippi Lime Company Missouri Constructors Missouri History Museum Montgomery Bank Mutual Of Omaha Advisors Nine PBS Panera Bread LLC Pangea Group Performance Foodservice — Middendorf Precoat Metals Raceway Gives Re/Max Gold Regions Bank Reinsurance Group of America Sherwin Williams SIUE Spire, Inc. St. Louis Community College STL Partnership St. Louis Post-Dispatch Success Brands Talisen Technologies Tarlton Corporation The Ritz-Carlton, St. Louis Thompson Coburn LLP University of Missouri — STL (UMSL) University of Missouri System Verizon Washington University in St. Louis World Wide Technology
www.hccstl.com // 20 S. Sarah St., St. Louis, MO. 63108 // 314.664.4432