Services

 

We offer professional assistance and services in the following areas:

 

Employment

 

We offer spot hiring referrals for employers and general and seasonal employment opportunities throughout the community; assistance in filling out job applications and doing computer job searches; providing mediation services to solve problems between employers/employees.

 

Cultural and Language Competence

 

We facilitate training that promotes cultural diversity, language, legal, and other opportunities for appreciation and integration of Latinos in your particular field/office setting and in the community at large.

 

Housing

 

We promote access to information regarding of rental or home ownership; homebuyer education and down payment assistance;  advocating against predatory lending practices; mediation between landlords and tenants or homeowners and their financers; lead poison detection and prevention education; providing clients with information with which to access to services when making home improvements; and addressing concerns due to housing discrimination.

 

Immigration

 

Using nationally trained and certified caseworkers, we help identify issues and provide contact information regarding documentation; assist in completing basic immigration documents; assist in facilitating communication between employers and Spanish-speaking clients with regards to immigration-related issues.

 

Computer Access and Training

 

Using our computer lab we provide the following assistance: basic computer skill training; access to the internet to improve personal communication, sending and receiving emails, and performing computer searches.

 

Education and Job Skill Opportunities

 

We provide access information about options for improving job skills; opportunities for educational and career opportunities after high school; Job Club, which meets on Wednesday afternoons and provides members with education seminars on job services; improving communication and English-language skills.

 

Dream Project

 

What is the Dream Project?

The Dream Project was started by El Centro, Hawkeye Community College, the University of Northern Iowa, and Wartburg College to give Latino students living in the Cedar Valley help in planning their future. 

 

Whether the future holds plans for continuing your education; getting hand-on training as an apprentice; or entering the work place immediately after graduation from high school, we are here to help you. El Centro staff will help you assess what credits you have already and what you need to graduate.  We will connect you with school personnel to look at options to help you finish high school, including alternative high school and GED programs. El Centro staff will connect you with tutors and mentors that will help you organize yourself to be more successful in your studies and work towards your goals. El Centro staff will meet with you and your parents to talk about your goals and set up a step by step process to make them happen. Together, we can help you succeed!

 

 

Taxes

 

Taxes are prepared between January and April. El Centro prepares taxes by appointment only.

 

Language Services

 

Professional translation services from English to Spanish or Spanish to English of written documents or for interpreting while conducting business or transacting issues are provided by El Centro.

 

Office Services

 

Notarization of documents, sending or receiving faxes and photocopies are available at El Centro.