Lakeshore nonprofit raises nearly $70,000 for community programs

Nonprofit

Jul 28

Written By Staff

Photo courtesy of Latin Americans United for Progress

For more than six decades, Fiesta has celebrated the culture, traditions and contributions of West Michigan’s Latino community. The annual event returned this year with five days of cultural performances, family activities, local vendors and community engagement. Latin Americans United for Progress (LAUP) announced that Fiesta 2026 welcomed thousands of residents from across West Michigan and raised more than $69,643 to support the organization’s year-round programs serving Latino individuals and families.

Over five days, Fiesta brought together 52 community organizations and partners that connected directly with attendees, 33 sponsors and partners that helped make the celebration possible, and 25 performers showcasing music, dance and cultural traditions. Families enjoyed 12 children’s activities, while seven food trucks and eight local marketplace vendors generated more than $25,000 in sales, supporting local entrepreneurs and small businesses. The celebration also featured a Fiesta Car Show with 115 registered vehicles.

“Fiesta belongs to the entire community,” said Alejandra Guillén, executive director of LAUP. “Seeing our community come together like this is the reason why we do this work. Every sponsor, volunteer, performer, vendor, and attendee helped make this celebration possible, and every dollar raised helps create opportunities for Latino individuals and families throughout the year. While Fiesta may only last five days, the work continues year-round, and we invite our community to continue building a future where every Latino individual and family can thrive.”

Funds raised through Fiesta support LAUP’s year-round work, including youth leadership and educational programs, workforce and economic development, small business support and entrepreneurship, community resource navigation, and mental health and wellness initiatives.

Beyond celebrating Latino culture, Fiesta also created meaningful opportunities for local businesses, entrepreneurs, artists and community organizations. Throughout the week, vendors connected with new customers, organizations built relationships with families, answered questions and strengthened partnerships that will continue long after the festival concluded.

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