Mission Statement: Formed in 1997, El Centro’s mission is to provide for the economic advancement and well being of immigrant workers and their families until all immigrants achieve full civic participation in the United States. El Centro del Inmigrante was founded in 1997 by a collaborative effort of Project Hospitality, the Latino Civic Association, and St. Mary’s of the Assumption Church to address the needs of the newly arrived immigrant day laborers and their families. Since 1990 thousands of immigrants mainly from Mexico and Latin America have immigrated to Staten Island. El Centro has created “a space where recently arrived immigrants can form friendships, develop their leadership and make their own contribution to the Staten Island community.” Through our Worker Center we provide opportunities for skills building and economic empowerment. Some of our programs include English as a Second Language, Spanish G.E.D. and tutoring classes, worker rights organizing, occupational health and safety education, immigration counseling, legal assistance, cultural activities, food pantry and community service.