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Hispanic and Latinx Services

Hispanic Heritage.jpg
OYA provides services for youth who identify as Hispanic or Latinx. OYA collaborates with youth and the community to create opportunities for emotional growth and community awareness. OYA supports and fosters an environment where Hispanic/Latinx youth can develop and explore their self-identity. OYA offers Hispanic/Latinx youth access to:
  • Cultural resources and mentorships
  • Cultural events
  • Youth development activities
These services are provided by the Office of Inclusion and Intercultural Relations, also known as OIIR.



OYA has a Hispanic/Latinx Advisory Group that has a mission of providing and promoting equitable and inclusive organizational practices. The purpose of the Hispanic/Latinx Advisory Committee (HLAC) is to advise, assist, consult and make recommendations to the Oregon Youth Authority (OYA) and Office of Inclusion (OIIR) management and staff to support and meet the needs of Hispanic/Latinx youth in OYA custody.

OYA and the advisory committee partner with community organizations that benefit Hispanic/Latinx youth. These organizations include:

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OIIR helps coordinate special events, activities, and celebrations at OYA facilities, including: 
  • Hispanic Heritage Month
  • Cinco de Mayo
  • Day of the Dead
  • Our Lady of Guadalupe
  • Support Groups

​With more than half a million Hispanics in Oregon, they make up roughly 13% of the total population of the state of Oregon. According to a January 2020 report, Hispanics make up 21% of OYA’s total youth population. Among OYA’s close custody youth, Hispanics account for 20% of youth committed as juveniles and 35% of youth committed as adults.​

OYA is in need of foster parents for our Hispanic/Latinx youth. If you are interested, please visit our foster care page.

OYA is always looking for volunteers to serve as community mentors. Learn more at our volunteer page.

To learn more about how to get involved, contact Paola Sumoza-Maciel at paola.sumoza-maciel@oya.oregon.gov​​ or 971-283-0524.



Contact

Paola Sumoza-Maciel

Statewide Hispanic Services Coordinator

Paola.Sumoza-Maciel@oya.oregon.gov

971-283-0524