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Our Programs

HACAN offers a diverse range of programs designed to support and empower Hispanic/Latino families and youth, guided by four core objectives:

Cultural Family Education

We prioritize fostering strong family bonds by providing culturally relevant education. Our programs create nurturing environments where children are cherished, and parents are equipped with the knowledge and tools to raise confident, loved children.

Leadership Development for Youth

Recognizing the importance of leadership skills at every stage of development, our programs focus on nurturing these skills in children and adolescents. We offer tailored activities and guidance to help young people refine their leadership abilities, preparing them for future challenges and successes.

Growth and Development Opportunities

We are committed to the holistic growth of youth, supporting both their personal and professional development. Our initiatives range from educational support to mentorship and career guidance, ensuring that each child has the resources to reach their full potential.

Child Abuse Awareness & Prevention

Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention: A core aspect of our mission is to promote awareness and prevention of child abuse. Our programs educate families and the wider community on recognizing signs of abuse, offering tools and resources for prevention and intervention.

Activities & Events

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Morning STAR Program

Catering to boys and girls from pre-k to 8th grade offers a rich blend of STEAM, reading, and team-building activities. Our weekly Saturday sessions provide a secure and nurturing space, empowering and guiding young participants to make informed choices throughout their adolescence.

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Student Training
in Advocacy & Responsibility

Student Training in Advocacy & Responsibility (STAR) is a leadership and advocacy program that prepares adolescent youth for college. It combines workshops, guest speaker sessions, and field trips to underscore the value of education and inspire youth to become impactful community leaders and catalysts for social change.

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Parent
Education

HACAN offers year-round programs and workshops to enhance family life and community engagement. Initiatives like 'Strengthening Families' and 'Families Reunite' focus on family cohesion, complemented by positive discipline, health, and nutrition workshops. 'Speak Up Be Safe' workshops tackle safety and advocacy, and we collaborate with local groups to improve community life.

Our History

Our Founder, Carmen Fernandez
December 26, 1932 - September 17, 2021

Our founder, Carmen, has been a lifelong advocate for the underprivileged. Her journey began in her youth, ministering to impoverished families in La Lisa, a small rural town, and deepened during a faith-affirming mission trip to Mexico. After studying social work at the University of Havana, Carmen immigrated to the United States in 1960. She continued her education at George Mason University, balancing academics with family life alongside her husband, Jorge. Her passion for social work led her to obtain a Master’s degree from The Catholic University of America, culminating in a rewarding 25-year career with Arlington County’s Child Protective Services.

Here, Carmen recognized the unique challenges Spanish-speaking immigrants face in child protective services and the broader struggles of parenting in a new cultural landscape. In 1985, this insight and commitment to service inspired her to establish Hispanics Against Child Abuse and Neglect (HACAN). Her vision was clear: to fortify families, empower youth, and prevent child abuse through culturally aware education and advocacy. Under her leadership, HACAN has become a beacon of hope and support in the community.

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ABOUT US & CONTACT

HACAN, advocating for diverse families since 1985, focuses on child safety and family empowerment in Northern Virginia. Join us in building Strong Families and Strong Communities.

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REGISTERED CHARITY:

Combined Federal Campaign # 48301

United Way # 8719

HACAN is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization

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© 2026 HACAN. All Rights Reserved

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