Community • Culture • Connection
Hispanic Connections
Bringing people together through meaningful relationships, cultural understanding, and a shared commitment to the Hispanic community of Woodstock and McHenry County.
A Woodstock Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry group. Welcoming Hispanic and non-Hispanic participants.
Our Purpose
Building connections that strengthen our community.
Hispanic Connections brings together individual leaders and business owners committed to engaging with the Hispanic community. Through collaboration, educational opportunities, and cultural celebrations, the group promotes awareness, cultural diversity, and equality while creating space for people to connect and contribute.
Relationships with purpose
Meet people who share an interest in supporting the Hispanic community. Bring your perspective, exchange ideas, and build relationships with local business owners and community leaders.
Understanding through conversation
Help encourage greater awareness of Hispanic culture, experiences, and community needs through education, shared perspectives, and open conversation.
Culture that brings us together
Celebrate Hispanic heritage and the people who enrich our community. Cultural events offer opportunities to share traditions, recognize contributions, and connect across backgrounds.
You belong in the conversation.
Hispanic Connections is open to Hispanic and non-Hispanic participants who share its vision. Whether you are a business owner, a community leader, or someone interested in getting involved, we invite you to learn more and connect with the group.
Meet the Team
The people behind Hispanic Connections.
Meet the team working together to support the group’s mission and build connections throughout our community.
Olga Ortiz
President
Hispanic Connections
Teresa Flores
Vice President
Arturo Flores Team Brokered by eXp Realty
Ximena Castillo
Gabriela Ordoñez
Sixto Zamara
Alberto Perez
Co-owner, D&A Salon | Apothecary
and The Market by D&A
Meet Alberto
Alberto Perez has been a business owner in Woodstock since 2016. He is the co-owner of D&A Salon | Apothecary and The Market by D&A.
Alberto is committed to supporting his community and has donated his time and talents to several local organizations, including Friends of the Old Courthouse, Real Woodstock, the Miss Woodstock Pageant, the Woodstock Food Pantry, and the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce.
The son of Mexican parents, Alberto is proud of his heritage and excited to be part of Hispanic Connections, supporting its mission and helping empower the next generation of Hispanic leaders.
Celebrating Our Community
Mexican Independence Day Celebration
Hispanic Connections is proud to help celebrate Mexican culture and heritage here in Woodstock. The Mexican Independence Day Celebration is an opportunity for our community to come together, share traditions, and celebrate.
Explore the CelebrationInvesting in Future Leaders
Hispanic Connections Legacy Scholarship
Created in celebration of 10 years of culture and community engagement, the Hispanic Connections Legacy Scholarship carries that commitment forward by investing in the next generation of leaders.
Recognizing dedication and leadership
The scholarship supports students who demonstrate leadership, academic commitment, and a dedication to making a positive impact in their community.
Supporting different paths to success
Through financial assistance and encouragement, the program supports students pursuing higher education, trade school, vocational training, or other career pathways.
Learn More
Interested in joining the conversation?
Explore the questions below to learn about the group and how to get involved.
Who can get involved?
Hispanic Connections welcomes Hispanic and non-Hispanic participants who share an interest in supporting the Hispanic community of Woodstock and McHenry County.
Whether you’re a business owner, professional, community leader, or resident, your perspective is welcome. An interest in connecting with others and supporting the group’s mission is a great place to start.
What does the group focus on?
The group brings people together through relationship building, cultural awareness, education, and celebrations of Hispanic heritage. Its mission centers on community engagement, diversity, and equality.
Educational and celebratory events offer opportunities to share traditions, exchange perspectives, and build understanding across backgrounds.
How does the group celebrate Hispanic heritage?
Hispanic Connections helps celebrate Mexican culture and heritage through Woodstock’s Mexican Independence Day Celebration—an opportunity for the community to come together and share traditions.
What is the Legacy Scholarship?
Established in celebration of the group’s 10-year milestone, the Hispanic Connections Legacy Scholarship provides financial assistance and encouragement to students who demonstrate leadership, academic commitment, and a desire to make a positive impact.
The program supports higher education, trade school, vocational training, and other career pathways. Visit the group’s website for scholarship information and application updates.
How do I find out about meetings or get involved?
Contact Hispanic Connections directly to learn about upcoming meetings and opportunities to participate. Introduce yourself and share what interests you about the group.
You don’t need a specific project or idea to start the conversation.
Let’s Connect
Bring your perspective. Make a connection.
Interested in Hispanic Connections? Reach out to the team to introduce yourself, learn about upcoming meetings, and explore opportunities to get involved.
Connect with Hispanic Connections