Introducting ELCipote.org, our Nonprofit Initiative
Our Mission
Elcipote.org is excited to introduce a broader, more inclusive initiative that not only focuses on Latin America but also on the rich tapestry of rural America.
Our enhanced mission is to alleviate the socioeconomic factors that compel individuals to embark on perilous journeys to the United States, while simultaneously showcasing the splendor and beauty of Latin America and the American heartland.
In rural America, significant progress has been made in recent years. The U.S. rural population is experiencing growth, with a decline in poverty. However, challenges persist, as over half of extremely low-income nonmetro renter households still face housing insecurity. Our goal is to build on these positive trends and support further development in these communities.
In regions like Coal Country, which spans parts of Appalachia and the Midwest, the decline of coal-based industries has posed economic challenges. The U.S. Economic Development Administration (EDA) has been investing in these communities to support economic diversification, job creation, and resilience. With over $550 million in funding awarded to coal communities, there's a significant effort to revitalize these areas and create new opportunities.
Mississippi, often emblematic of rural America's challenges, had the highest poverty rate in the U.S. in 2023, with 18.8% of its population living in poverty. Despite these economic challenges, Mississippi is known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and the warmth of its people. From its honey-dipped sandy beaches and charming historic towns to its verdant hill country, Mississippi is a testament to the resilience and beauty of rural America.
Our Core Values
Sustainable Development: We are committed to sustainable growth in Latin America and rural America, emphasizing environmental stewardship and cultural preservation.
Economic Empowerment: We aim to create job opportunities and strengthen local economies, aligning our efforts with U.S. initiatives in rural areas and Coal Country.
Cultural Exchange: We believe in the power of cultural exchange to foster understanding, appreciation, and mutual respect between the diverse cultures of the Americas.
Innovation and Collaboration: We support innovative approaches and collaborative efforts to address the complex challenges facing both Latin America and rural America.
Our Expanded Mission
Elcipote.org is proud to announce the expansion of our initiative to include not only Latin America and rural America but also the vibrant inner cities of the United States.
Our mission now encompasses a tri-fold approach: mitigating socioeconomic factors that lead to perilous journeys to the U.S., showcasing the splendor of Latin America and rural America, and illuminating the rich cultural tapestry of U.S. inner cities.
Poverty remains a significant issue in many U.S. inner cities. In 2022, the official poverty rate was 11.5%, affecting 37.9 million people. The Supplemental Poverty Measure (SPM) rate was 12.4%, a notable increase from the previous year. Baltimore, Maryland, exemplifies these challenges, with a poverty rate of 20.31%, significantly higher than the national average.
Yet, these inner cities are also centers of rich culture and history. Cities like Baltimore, New York, Boston, Washington D.C., Houston, and Los Angeles are renowned for their cultural offerings. From the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York to the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C., these cities offer a wealth of art, history, and cultural experiences that reflect the diverse tapestry of American life.
Join us at Elcipote.org as we embark on this ambitious journey, bridging continents and communities, fostering resilience and prosperity, and celebrating the diverse beauty of our shared world.