On October 9, the Family Home program at Boys Town North Florida celebrated National Hispanic Heritage Month on campus. National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated annually from September 15 to October 15 to recognize the history, culture, and influence of Hispanic Americans and the American Latino community. The Family Home program has had a large focus on increasing cultural diversity and awareness not only with staff but increasing the youths' exposure to different cultures, arts, and more.
Family Home Program Consultant Destiny Story led the event to celebrate the beauty, diversity, and influence of Latin culture and history. The celebration began with Destiny sharing some fun videos describing National Hispanic Heritage month, when it started, its purpose, and fun facts about many influencers in the Latin community.
After the video, youth enjoyed learning about traditional dances, art, and food as well as looking at family treasures from Destiny's family in Mexico.
To wrap up the event, everyone enjoyed a nacho bar and Tres Leches cake while singing Spanish karaoke and playing traditional games such as Mar y Tierra, Loteria, and Piñatas!
“I am very proud of my culture, history, and background," said Destiny. “I love sharing and teaching others about it. During the pandemic, I taught Spanish to a group of our kiddos and hearing them speak it and truly enjoy this celebration was incredible! I am a firm believer that the beauty of our world is in the diversity of its people and it is so important for these upcoming generations to learn about all cultures and be empowered by them. They are the future."