Sunday, May 26th, 2013

History


How did it begin?
The Hispanic Heritage Scholarship Fund of Metro Orlando (HHSFMO) 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 HHSFMO was established as a separate and independent organization.

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

 
The Success
Since its inception in 2000, the HHSFMO has awarded more than $744,500 in scholarships to 195 students in Central Florida.  The HHSFMO 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.