What would our planet be like if there were no artists or no philanthropists? It probably would be a much harsher existence. Altruistic actions have, without a doubt, made the world a nicer place in many ways including in bettering individual's lives, resources, rights and benefits as citizens.

One of the principals of most non-profit organizations is they strive to make the world a better, more humane place. On many occasions, these organizations work to reduce the needs of people who are less fortunate. They also work to strengthen democratic institutions, reinforce moral values and open new horizons in the search for new knowledge and solutions.

Nevertheless, there are non-profit organizations that are a front to cover the dishonorable endeavors of unscrupulous people. Sometimes, they take actions that seem counter to their interests to assure their profits. Consider the organizations that are supposed to help people in debt consolidate and pay what they owe. The strange thing is that, often, the debt consolidation agencies are subsidiaries of credit card companies that establish the high interest rates in the first place.

The growth of the Latino population in the United States has meant that the number of non-profit organizations in the United States started by Latinos has grown as well. These organizations provide many types of help and social assistance. Generally, their objectives are related to the realization of the law and access to increased opportunity for political, economic, technological and health and cultural aspects of the community.

In addition to the League of United Latin American Citizens (LULAC) and the National Council on La Raza (NCLR), two of the most important Latino non-profit organizations in the United States, there are many others. Some work within their local communities while others work on national and international initiatives.

Generally speaking, non-profit organizations receive federal or state funds. This is not always a good thing because the organizations may be limited in their freedom to realize projects or in their expression and actions, for example, when they are not able to work with people who do not have documentation. Others may fear criticizing their funders for fear of losing financial support. Despite these disincentives, many non-profit agencies carry out effective and important projects.

Here is a short list of some organizations that provide services to Latinos that job seekers might want to contact. Volunteering at non-profit organizations also is a good way to learn about how they work and get experience to build a resume.

Women's Justice Center
www.justicewomen.com
This organization does not receive state or federal funds. In this way it is autonomous and is able to provide services to anybody they want to. They offer free legal assistance and protection for victims of domestic violence and child abuse. They only offer services in their area, Santa Rosa, California, however, their website is a valuable source of information that can inform individuals anywhere.

ASPIRA
www.aspira.org
ASPIRA is a national not-for-profit organization that is dedicated to the educational development and leadership of Latino youth. Since 1961, ASPIRA's mission has been to promote positive values in the Latino community through scholarships and educational programs.

Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU)
www.hacu.net
The staff of HACU works to promote the participation of Latino students in two-year community colleges and accredited four-year universities. HACU staff realizes a national internship program for Latino students interested in obtaining careers in the federal government or private sector.

Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility
www.hacr.org
Established in 1986 as an association made up of prominent Latino organizations, the Hispanic Association on Corporate Responsibility is based in Washington, D.C. HACR members work to ensure the equitable participation of the Latino community in the corporate world in the United States. They help Latinos acquire purchasing power and participate. The companies responsible work to include Latinos in key positions in leadership in government and private industry by leveraging their connections at top companies.

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