As a child of first-generation Dominican immigrants, Patricia Vazquez wants to help Latinos understand that they are an important part of this great nation. That this is their home now, where they must contribute, build and grow together as a family for themselves and for generations to come. That they all play an important part in the community. Unity gives strength and a tremendous amount of power that can be used positively to help build one another.
In 2021, she became President of the non-profit organization, The Dominican Association of Pennsylvania also known as DAP. Where they aim to educate, guide, and empower the Latino community of Pennsylvania. As the President of DAP, she gets to collaborate with an amazing team. Together they create opportunities for the community to learn, connect, and grow.
For the ongoing year 2022, they have had many successful and impactful community events where they have served over 2300 residents. Events such as the Three Kings Day toy drive, COVID19 campaigns, Dominican Independence Day, Mother’s Day event, and for the first time this year a Latina Women Convention event to commemorate international women’s day.
In March 2022, after creating a Latina-focused group they named DAMAS DAP, she led “Extraordinaria.” DAP’s first Latina Women convention event at the historic Women’s Center of The Arts in the heart of Reading. This was a free event that highlighted Latina Women who opened the way for other Latina professionals and entrepreneurs in Reading and Berks. She also does a weekly community show on Rumba 92.3FM where she highlights others who are helping the community as well. All this while also parenting and having a full-time job for the City of Reading as the Community Development Liaison officer. To say she is busy is an understatement.
As you can see her true passion is empowering and uplifting her community. She loves to influence people positively and empower them to believe that all their dreams are possible with consistency and support. Her goal as a community organizer and leader of the Dominican Association of Pennsylvania is to aid Latinos to expand their education, highlight their accomplishments and foster the social, economic, and educational contributions made by the Latino community to this great nation. To be exemplary citizens, build strong networks, sustainable wealth, and support systems for our families and children.
If you are looking for a cause or organization to support that truly does things to impact our community reach out to Patricia at 610-587-7156 and make sure to follow them on FB.
Palo Magazine
