Democracy needs informed, prepared, and accountable leaders—and that work starts early. Our January Youth Activators session connected civic engagement with financial literacy, reinforcing a simple truth: economic empowerment and civic power go hand in hand.

What if health equity was treated as an economic strategy?

This blog written by Dr. Arturo Aceves González, MD explores why student voices matter today, how systems shape health outcomes, and what real community partnership looks like.

We are proud to highlight one of the women guiding our mission forward: LEDC's Board President Laura Contreras, M.P.A.

Youth Activators will help guide what comes next for the Plaza de la Raza: the programming they want to see, the spaces they want to build, and the community they want to grow. Because this is their city too, and they deserve to lead in what it becomes.

The truth is, no single organization can build equity alone. If we want healthier communities, we must also build fairer economies. If we want thriving families, we must also ensure inclusive development.

From all of us at LEDC, gracias for believing in our work and the future we’re building together ✊🏽

🎉 Today marks 2 years since Itzel López became the inaugural CEO of the Latino Economic Development Council (LEDC) — and what an incredible journey it's been!

But as a human being, I must say this plainly: there is no excuse for the dehumanization of our community members. Dignity and respect are not privileges reserved for a few, they are rights that should be upheld for all, regardless of immigration status.

At the Latino Economic Development Council (LEDC), we believe that the future of Omaha must be shaped by all who call it home. That’s why we’re proud to be a core partner in We Make Omaha, the City of Omaha’s comprehensive plan update designed to guide growth, development, and policy decisions for the next 20 years.

On May 22, 2025, Omaha’s South 24th Street came alive with solidarity as over 200 community members gathered for the “Stand in Solidarity” event. Organized by Omaha Together One Community (OTOC) and member organizations of the Nebraska Alliance for Thriving Communities, the rally showcased the city's unwavering support for immigrant and refugee families who have long enriched Nebraska's cultural and economic landscape. 

South Omaha thrives as a dynamic and multicultural community where the Latino population is the largest ethnic minority, playing a pivotal role in the area's cultural and economic vitality. However, the lingering effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have disproportionately affected Latino families and businesses, deepening economic disparities and slowing recovery efforts.

This May, South Omaha hosted its 105th Cinco de Mayo Omaha parade, one of the longest-running Latino heritage festivals in the United States. 

On Friday, May 2, 2025, the heart of South Omaha beat a little louder. Under sunny skies and the joyful sounds of mariachi music, hundreds gathered at the historic corner of 24th and N Streets for the Dedication Ceremony of Plaza de la Raza - the first major milestone in the transformational Adelante South Omaha initiative.