ALVA Receives Community Impact Award

ALVA Receives Inaugural Community Impact Award from Julian Bond Institute for Financial Equity Research (JBI)

Washington, D.C. – The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) was honored with the Julian Bond Institute’s inaugural Community Impact Award in recognition of its outstanding commitment to empowering Latino veteran entrepreneurs and strengthening local economies through inclusive innovation and support.

Presented during a commemorative event celebrating the life and legacy of civil rights icon Julian Bond, the award highlights ALVA’s work in delivering impactful small business webinars, mentorship programs, and supplier matchmaking opportunities tailored to the needs of veteran Latino communities.

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“We are deeply honored to receive this award from an institution that shares our belief in community-led economic empowerment,” said Danny Vargas, ALVA Chairman/CEO. “Julian Bond’s legacy is one of justice, equality, and empowerment — and we’re proud to carry that spirit forward by supporting Latino veterans as they build generational wealth and resilient local businesses.”

Hosted at the historic Andrew W. Mellon Auditorium in Washington, D.C., the April 28th ceremony brought together grassroots leaders, academics, policymakers, and financial institutions to celebrate community innovation and highlight the importance of equity-driven financial research.

The Julian Bond Institute for Financial Equity Research is an initiative of the The Center for Responsible Lending (CRL). JBI centers the lived experiences of diverse communities to inform financial markets and public policy. Its research priorities span six key areas: managing everyday expenses, small business capital and credit, paying for higher education, clean energy transition, housing affordability and ownership, and the responsible use of technology.

“ALVA’s hands-on work supporting veteran, Latino small business owners represents exactly the kind of community-driven leadership we believe should guide the financial systems of tomorrow,” said Mitria Spotser, President, Julian Bond Institute.

The Community Impact Award marks a new tradition for the Julian Bond Institute, recognizing organizations that make measurable, meaningful contributions to financial equity and economic opportunity across the country.

About American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA):
The American Latino Veterans Association (ALVA) is a registered 501c3 that exists to help American Latino veterans thrive after their military service, access the benefits they have earned, and enhance recognition of Latino contributions to our nation’s defense since before its inception. For more information on ALVA visit https://www.alvavets.org or follow us on our social media channels @alvavets.

About Julian Bond Institute for Financial Equity Research (JBI):
JBI’s mission is to conduct research that elevates the financial needs, challenges, and opportunities presented by our increasingly diverse nation to effectively design a financial market for the future.

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