Our Mission: To strengthen the working class’s talents and skills through training and capacity building, and boost sustainable economic processes.

Our Vision: A prosperous working class

Values & Methods

WORK 

DIGNITY   

COMMUNITY 

Since our founding in 2002, we have developed and supported well-qualified workers who want to fill vital roles in our economy. Partnering with employers across the Denver Metro area, we provide workforce development training and direct access to jobs.

El Centro offers “wraparound services” addressing the many factors that shape a positive working experience for both employers and employees. These include trainings on emotional intelligence, and strategizing around the particular challenges that immigrants face in the workplace. Our top priority is to ensure all members are treated with respect through dignified working experiences.

Member-workers are equipped with the tools of community organizing so they can build the necessary power to influence policy decisions that directly impact them and their families. Trainings and organizing actions promote the development of leadership skills so workers can lead the charge in advocating for their rights.

History

In 1998, an injured day laborer was found abandoned on the street with severe brain damage. He had fallen off a roof while working.  His employer, who had picked him up at a street corner, abandoned him in the dark of night to avoid responsibility. Concerned about the prevalence of worker exploitation and dangerous working environments Denver’s day laborers face on a daily basis, community supporters came together to create a safe indoor place for day laborers to gather.

With support from the City of Denver, a run-down warehouse space at 2260 California Street was rehabilitated with help from the workers themselves and El Centro opened its doors in 2006 as Colorado’s first and only Worker Center.

Board of Directors

  • Cec Ortiz

    Board President
    Philanthropist, Colorado Community Leader, Consultant at Colorado Latino Age Wave

  • Jesús Orrantia

    Board Vice President
    Denver Parks and Recreation, City of Denver

  • Rebecca Galemba

    Associate Professor
    Josef Korbel School of International Studies, University of Denver

  • Rev. Paul Nguyen

    Rev. Paul Nguyen, OMV, a Catholic Priest since 2018, is originally from Long Beach, CA and currently serves as pastor of the Church of the Holy Ghost downtown since his appointment in 2022. He is the son of a Vietnamese immigrant father from Laos, and has always loved encountering other cultures and promoting the good of every person, beginning with the necessities of life. Father Paul also has a strong track record of volunteering and networking, and is poised to assist newcomers to Denver with productive connections to gain stability.

  • Lindsay Fred

    Lindsay Fred serves as Sales Director and Assistant Vice President at Cargill, bringing 20 years of experience in Sales, Commercial, and Finance leadership to our Board. Her background in strategic planning and financial strategy supports our organization's mission while promoting financial health and operational efficiency. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and a Master’s degree in Business Administration. Born and raised in Venezuela, Lindsay has a deep understanding of the immigrant journey and the opportunities for growth and success in this country. She is a passionate advocate for empowering and advancing the Hispanic and Latino community.