The Filipino Migrant Center just moved into its own newly renovated space in West Long Beach, where the local Filipino community has long lacked places to gather.
The nonprofit will mark the grand opening of its new space on Saturday, Feb. 24 from noon to 3 p.m. with free lunch and live performances.
Since 2010, the nonprofit has served low-income migrant Filipinos, but this is the first time it will have its own standalone home.
“We want it to really serve as a hub for the community where they can have free resources, programs and services,” said Romeo Hebron, executive director of the FMC. “We want to help empower the Filipino community in Long Beach.”
Hebron said he hopes to offer more intergenerational programming for Filipinos in Long Beach, especially on the Westside, where he says there is a lack of places for them to get together.
That programming will focus on leadership development, education about worker’s rights as well as summer youth, wellness and senior health programs.
Following 14 years of community support that culminated in a monthlong renovation, the new space will also offer assistance with workplace issues, immigration and government services or aid.
“We really believe that people who are most impacted by the issues are also the ones that can lead to the solutions and create positive change in their communities,” Hebron said.
Attendees and volunteers can RSVP for the grand opening here.
The Filipino Migrant Center is located at 1631 W. Burnett St. More information on the FMC can be found here.