Several nonprofit organizations have gained new momentum thanks to Philly Gives, an initiative by the Philadelphia Foundation in collaboration with the Lenfest Institute for Journalism and supported by the William Penn Foundation. Among these is ACLAMO, an organization that provides educational programs, social services, and access to healthcare for Latinos and other community members, helping them reach their full potential.

In an interview with Impacto, Nelly Jiménez-Arévalo, Executive Director of ACLAMO, shared her surprise and gratitude for the support received, emphasizing how challenging it is to secure funding for free community programs. “When they called me, I said, ‘Really? How exciting!’ Because anyone who works in a social organization knows how difficult it is to raise money to sustain community programs. Many of our programs are free for families, so we have to fundraise,” she explained.

Nelly highlighted two key aspects of Philly Gives. First, the visibility it provides. “In the social sector, visibility is very important because ACLAMO is amazing, but there are thousands of other incredible organizations as well. This visibility sets you apart and gives you the opportunity to reach more people, for them to see your name, fall in love with your organization, and say, ‘You know what? I’m going to support you,’” she pointed out.

Second, she stressed the importance of the funds received. “Who would complain about that, right? Because these funds are not restrictive; they are donations that you can use for the organization’s needs. This is very important because often programs are funded for specific things, like a teacher, but not for administrative staff or the person who writes the proposals,” she noted.

Nelly called on the community to donate and/or participate with nonprofit organizations. Thanks to Philly Gives, ACLAMO will continue to strengthen Latino families in its three locations in Pottstown, Lansdale, and Norristown. «Supporting nonprofit organizations is essential for society. You never know when our lives will intertwine. Do you invest now or spend later?» Jiménez-Arévalo remarked.