In 2002, the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus Foundation (ILLCF) was established by a group of Chicago-based male legislators. Their vision was to create a nonprofit organization dedicated to nurturing the next generation of Latino leaders while gaining a deeper understanding of the issues impacting the Latino community at a grassroots level.

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“Their aim was to establish a nonprofit arm that could promote future Latino leadership and provide a system to understand local issues affecting the Latino community,” explained Oswaldo Alvarez, the foundation’s Executive Director.

Over the years, the foundation has evolved significantly. Alvarez noted that the caucus now includes 18 legislators, with a majority being women, and many hailing from suburban areas. This shift reflects the broader demographic changes within Illinois, as more Latinos settle in suburban regions.

One of the key initiatives of the ILLCF in supporting emerging leaders is through its scholarship programs, which aim to empower young Latinos across the state.

One way the foundation fosters young leaders is through scholarships.

Over the years, more than a million dollars has been awarded to students.

State Representative Barbara Hernandez from the 50th District, which includes parts of Aurora, North Aurora and Batavia, is one of those who’s received one of those scholarships.

She said it was a great help, as a first-generation college student.

“For me, it was hard to navigate going to college. So, for me to receive that scholarship was a blessing because I was able to continue my education, finish my school. I was able to go get my bachelor’s and then my master’s. And now, I get to be a representative and continue that legacy that people have done in the past and hopefully help other students
navigate that too,” Hernandez said.

Alvarez said it’s hard to stay focused during current immigration action in Chicago.

For more information on ILLCF Gala: https://www.illcfoundation.org/events/illcf-4th-annual-gala-our-wings-our-legacy