Goodwill of Central & Southern Indiana recognizes and celebrates National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 - October 15), a period to commemorate the contributions, histories and cultures of Latino and Hispanic Americans.

As an organization that aspires to represent a broad cross-section of the communities we educate, employ and serve, it’s essential for Goodwill’s retail, schools and mission initiatives to be active in the community. Goodwill Nurse-Family Partnership® (NFP), a program that pairs first-time parents and registered nurses, has been the epitome of community connection during National Hispanic Heritage Month. 

At community events, nurses like Erika Lopez can meet with potential clients and organization partners to delve into Goodwill NFP’s model. Recently, Goodwill NFP staff from central Indiana set up two expo tables at the Indiana Latino Expo and another at La Plaza’s Fiesta, an outdoor Latino and Hispanic celebration.

Erika is a nurse home visitor. In her role, she visits parents during and after pregnancy, up until the child turns two. Throughout the program, she delivers trusted information to parents to prepare for a healthy labor and childbirth. She supports families through breastfeeding and their child’s development milestones, helping them hone their parenting skills. 

“I decided to attend to get out in the community and put a face to Goodwill NFP,” said Erika. “A lot of people took information and materials about the program to hand out in their community or give to someone who could benefit,” said Erika.

Networking with partner organizations at community events often results in critical resources reaching underserved families. Katherine Harkov, a tenured nurse supervisor at Goodwill NFP, has seen the effects of the program and the outreach firsthand.

“When I worked as a nurse home visitor, I worked primarily with families from Central America,” said Katherine. “Since I've been at Goodwill NFP, that work has helped me understand the population and the barriers they face.”

Katherine also participated in the Indiana Latino Expo and Fiesta, sharing information about Goodwill NFP. During both events, Erika and Katherine learned more about Latino and Hispanic culture and history, particularly in central Indiana. This aspect of their roles not only creates an organization with cultural understanding and perspective, but also helps reach many families who want someone to walk with them in this vital part of their lives.

“So many times, our nurses connect with moms who are isolated and don't feel like they have the support they need,” said Katherine. “It feels really intense that we can be there for someone during a very significant point in their life and provide support that could make her or her baby's life better. It's indescribable.”

Goodwill NFP is looking for bilingual nurses to help serve families who primarily speak Spanish. Se ofrece un bono para el personal de enfermería bilingüe. You can apply here.