Local organizations are using the time to spread cultural awareness. Centro Latino is one of those groups.

"Every group in our country and in the world, they look for a time to celebrate our heritage, to celebrate where we come from, why they are in a foreign land, how they become citizens, and how to assimilate to the community," said Eduardo Crespi, the director of Centro Latino.

Organizations like Centro Latino are working to empower Hispanics across mid-Missouri.

According to Columbia Public Schools, Columbia had 268 Hispanic students in 2,000. Today, there are about 780.

The census estimates there are 42.7 million Hispanics nationwide. In Columbia there are approximately 5,500.

Leaders of the organization hope this month not only celebrates Hispanic heritage, but sheds light on some of the problems within the Hispanic community.

Centro Latino works with the community's children after school with tutoring and study skills.

Other local organizations such as Domingo Martinize-Castilla's organization, Cambio, are also working to better the community.

"You have to appreciate not only the beautiful and colorful contributions of culture like music, food and dance and dress, but you have to start to appreciate the economic, the social contributions of every member of society," said Martinize-Castilla.

Leaders said they hope this month continues to educate their own and inform others.