Centro Obrero Fundraising Letter

May 9, 2007

Centro Obrero
c/o 4300 Michigan Ave.
Detroit, MI 48210

Dear sisters and brothers;

The Latino Worker Center (Centro Obrero) opened its doors on May 1, 2006. We did this without funding or a promise of funding from any source. The AFL-CIO and several activists had been meeting for several months prior to this date. It was decided, due to the extreme situation in the Latino community that we could not wait for money or permission to respond.

Following several months of work, English as a Second Language classes, popular education and workplace advocacy, we began to receive funding from the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Growth. The AFL-CIO carried us through the summer months with assistance for our rent, health care benefits for the director and much in-kind support. In September, 2006, we were invited to move into the offices of UAW Local 22. We were provided space, phones and utilities free until we received our own funding.

In order to support El Centro, the AFL-CIO borrowed on its credit from HRDI, the non-profit arm which is the fiduciary for Centro Obrero and several other non-profits throughout the state. Consequently, we owe a debt of $15,000.00 to HRDI. This appeal is our first fundraiser to honor this obligation.

Enclosed please find information about our upcoming event on June 1, 2007 at 7:30 p.m. at the Detroit Repertory Theatre. We are selling tickets at $30.00 each. Additionally, we are asking Unions, organizations and individuals to co-sponsor the event. We will note you in the program on the evening of the event and send you tickets for the play.

We hope you will come to see the play, enjoy the ambiance and the good company of those who support Centro Obrero and the wider work of justice.


In solidarity,

Elena Herrada

Director, Centro Obrero

Barry Waldman,
Board Chair

Bill Wylie- Kellermann,
Board member