This October, the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute (CHCI), celebrates 30 years. Join us October 1–3 in Washington D.C., as we gather to honor our past and, together, pave the future of our community.

Over the last three decades, CHCI’s prestigious events have been the hallmark of Hispanic Heritage Month. What started as a small dinner hosted by five Latino Members of Congress in 1977 to raise money for youth programs, is now the nation’s leading event showcasing our leaders and generating support for Latino youth.

CHCI’s programs are the catalyst for Latino youth to expand their horizons and reach their full potential. We serve 500,000 students, parents and educators each year through comprehensive leadership development programs, scholarships, and online educational services.

We can’t stop there. Over the last 15 years, the number of Latinos under age 24 has doubled, totaling over 19.5 million. By the year 2020, this group is projected to see its numbers exceed 27.5 million. To meet this growing demand, CHCI is expanding its reach and visibility.

This October — as we honor our past and prepare for the next generation of leaders to carry us forward — we will confront issues that are immediately relevant to this group and our community as a whole. The 2007 Public Policy Conference — held at the Washington, D.C. Convention Center on Monday and Tuesday, October1–2 — begins our week of activities.

At the various Conference summits, participants will interact with Hispanic Members of Congress and other expert panelists. Conference participants will contribute their own valuable perspective to the national discussion on issues, ranging from Business, Housing and Economic Development to Social Security. Each summit will report their conclusions and findings on October 2, during the closing plenary session.

CHCI will once again hold a Hispanic Youth Seminar during our Public Policy Conference, consisting of a Ready to Lead Workshop and a Keynote Lunch speaker. Both are open to participants between the ages of 14 and 18. This will be held on Tuesday, October 2.

The 7th Annual Reyes of Comedy Night on Tuesday, October 2, promises to be an unforgettable evening as Hispanic comedians take the stage of the historic Warner Theatre for two hours of non-stop laughter and fun. These gifted comedians will not only tickle our funny bones, but share their hilarious and keen insight on what it truly means to be Hispanic in the United States.

At the 30th Annual Gala, held the evening of Wednesday, October 3 at the Washington, D.C. Convention Center, we will celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month with an all-out bash.

The Gala is CHCI’s foremost source fundraising, with all proceeds benefiting our programs. Our Hispanic Heritage Month events are an important part of a continuous, year-long relationship with our sponsors, friends and supporters. It allows each of you an opportunity to contribute and thereby impact the lives of our Congressional Interns, Public Policy Fellows and Scholars. Please come and help us make these events the most successful to date, as we benefit our youth for another 30 years to come.

We, CHCI’s Board of Directors and staff thank you in advance for your continued support of our mission. We look forward to seeing you in October!