PARTNERS
Partnering Organizations
Laredo Center for the Arts
The Laredo Center for the Arts encourages self-expression through visual art, dance, music, literacy and theater. They work to encourage a thriving community of artists and appreciation of art and facilitate classes, lectures, performances, and exhibits in an effort to enrich the lives of all citizens of Laredo and the surrounding areas. As the Center has become an integral part of Laredo's historic downtown, it's director has found a second home on our board and has been vital to all events that Laredo Main Street hosts.
Frank Architects, Inc.
Frank Architects believes that architecture is truly part of a greater spacial experience. With that in mind, they strive to enhance the rich urban experience of downtown Laredo, while utilizing sustainable design elements. Their associates are woven deeply into the fabric of downtown, and Laredo Main Street. They have been truly instrumental in helping establish our Farmers Market and Arts & Entertainment District. They have volunteered their time and provided financial support for many of our projects.
Situated in the historic downtown area, La Posada has always been a connecting point for commerce between Mexico and America, and between new and old world countries. They remain an avid supporter of downtown commerce, and as such, we work closely with them on projects that stimulate tourism to downtown Laredo and several directors serve on our Board.
AEP Texas values Citizenship, and strives to develop a sense of community in all areas it services. American Electric Power has a strong tradition of leadership, service and contributions to the communities it serves. They have supported Laredo Main Street for many years with a presence on our board and through financial support.
H.E.A.L. Laredo Initiative
The Healthy Eating Active Living (HEAL) Laredo Initiative is made up of various community stakeholders in public health. Working together to combat the prevalence of obesity and diabetes in Laredo and the surrounding area, we have joined their team because of the vital role El Centro de Laredo Farmers Market plays in providing healthy food choices and improving the quality of life for our community.
Rio Grande International Study Center
RGISC works hard to preserve, protect, and foster respect for the Rio Grande~Rio Bravo, and its watershed, environment and cultures through research, education and binational stewardship and alliances with individuals, agencies, and organizations. We work with them in coordinating their Dia del Rio event with our Rio Fest and Rhthms on the Rio events. Be sure to keep an eye out for information regarding these events each October!
Keep Laredo Beautiful's mission is to empower the citizens of Laredo through education to take responsibility for enhancing their community and its environment. Recently, KLB has kicked off several community gardens and we have supported their efforts by providing a venue for local growers to sell their produce and possibly generate an additional source of income for their families or school groups. We work together on many events throughout the year.
At Laredo Job Corps, they provide students with skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce. Their partnership with Laredo Main Street is twofold. The Culinary Arts Program at Job Corps sells their specialty baked goods at our Farmers Market. Their newly planted garden (thanks to the generosity of Keep Laredo Beautiful) was able to provide a bountiful first harvest in May 2011, which they showcased at our May Farmers Market. We were told the director couldn't decide if he wanted to display their beautiful yellow squash in a trophy case, or allow the students to sell it at the market! We are equally proud of their efforts.
The University of Texas- Pan American
The University of Texas-Pan American and its Office of Rural Enterprise Development has worked tirelessly alongside Laredo Main Street in the formation of our farmers' market. Their assistance with grant writing, marketing, and market establishment has been crucial to the success of our market.
ACCION Texas provides credit and counseling services to small businesses that do not have access to loans from commercial sources, and Laredo Main Street stives to match local downtown businesses to the resources ACCION has available. As the downtown marketplace is stimulated with Farmers Market activity, new small business ventures are taking place every day and this partnership reinforces as many of them as possible.
TAMIU Small Business Development Center
The SBDC works with existing and startup businesses to help them grow and compete in today’s global economy. Laredo Main Street partnered with SBDC in hosting the Small Business Summit which provided local entrepreneurs with a wealth of information about steps to start-up and what resources are available to them in our area. Be on the lookout for this year's summit date- coming soon!