History

How did it begin?
The Hispanic Heritage Scholarship Fund (HHSF) originated with a series of activities organized by the Hispanic Heritage Celebration Committee of Orange County, an employee group whose main purpose was to plan and organize activities for Hispanic Heritage month.

The first Hispanic Heritage Scholarship Gala was held in October 2000 and raised the initial funds.  In 2003, as a result of this effort to support the local Hispanic community, a partnership with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Central Florida was developed and the HHSF was established as a separate and independent organization.

The fund provides annual scholarships to Hispanic students at local university and colleges.  HHSF was incorporated in August 2003 as a 501 (c) (3), non-profit organization under the State of Florida.

The Gala That Keeps On Giving
The Gowns and Guayaberas Scholarship Gala is the organization’s primary fundraising source for the scholarship program.  Community and business volunteers from various government agencies, corporations, small business and many others commit time, energy and dollars to the tasks of preparing the road to success for local Hispanic youth.

The Success
Since its inception in 2000, the HHSF has awarded more than $630,000 in scholarships to 173 students in Central Florida.  The HHSF recognized the continuing need for quality education, the financial challenges of our community, and the difference scholarship support can have in a student’s academic success.