Mission Statement:
Our mission is to drive impactful change in our communities through developing educational initiatives. We design and implement transformative projects to address the most pressing needs within our community.
About the RGV area
The Rio Grande Valley (RGV) in Texas, comprising Cameron, Hidalgo, Starr, and Willacy counties, is a vibrant region with a rich cultural heritage and diverse population. However, this area faces significant challenges that necessitate targeted support and intervention.
Demographics and Population
The RGV is predominantly Hispanic, with Cameron County alone reporting a population that is 89.3% Hispanic or Latino. Starr County has an even higher percentage of Hispanic residents at 96.4%. The region's population is young, with a median age of around 32 years. Cameron County, for example, has a median age of 31.9 years, reflecting a youthful demographic that holds potential for future growth and development (Data USA) (Data.census.gov).
Economic Challenges
The economic landscape of the RGV presents significant hurdles. Median household incomes are notably lower than state and national averages. In Cameron County, the median household income is approximately $43,057, well below the Texas median of $72,284 and the national median of $74,755. Poverty rates are alarmingly high, with 22.3% of Cameron County's population living below the poverty line (Census Reporter).
Employment and Industries
The top industries in the region include education, health care, retail trade, and agriculture. Despite these employment opportunities, the average wages remain low, contributing to the high poverty rates. The agricultural sector, while significant, often involves seasonal work that does not provide stable, year-round income (Data USA).
Education and Health
Educational attainment levels in the RGV lag behind the state and national averages. In Cameron County, only 21.6% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher, compared to 35.7% nationwide. This gap in education is a critical barrier to higher-paying job opportunities (Census Reporter).
Health indicators also reflect the need for improved resources. High rates of obesity (44.6%) and significant portions of the population experiencing severe housing problems (23.3%) highlight ongoing health and living condition challenges (Data Commons).
Vulnerable Populations and Colonias
The RGV is home to several vulnerable groups, including a significant number of individuals with disabilities. Addressing the needs of these populations requires tailored support services, including accessible healthcare, education, and employment opportunities. The region's colonias—rural, unincorporated neighborhoods along the U.S.-Mexico border—are particularly underserved. Residents of colonias often lack basic services such as potable water, sewage systems, and safe housing. Efforts to improve living conditions in these areas are crucial for the overall well-being of the community (Census Reporter) (Data Commons).
Key Statistics
Population: Cameron County has approximately 425,208 residents, with similar demographic distributions in the other counties (Data Commons).
Median Household Income: Cameron County - $43,057; Texas - $72,284; U.S. - $74,755 (Data USA) (Census Reporter).
Poverty Rate: 22.3% in Cameron County, significantly higher than the state (14%) and national (12.6%) averages (Census Reporter).
Educational Attainment: Only 21.6% hold a bachelor's degree or higher in Cameron County, compared to 35.7% nationally (Census Reporter).
Health Indicators: 44.6% obesity rate in Cameron County (Data Commons).
Resources and Support Needed
To address the pressing needs in the RGV, the following resources and support are essential:
Educational Programs: Initiatives to improve high school graduation rates and encourage higher education can provide long-term economic benefits.
Healthcare Services: Expanding access to affordable healthcare, including mental health services, can address the region's significant health challenges.
Economic Development: Job training programs and support for small businesses can help diversify the economy and create more stable employment opportunities.
Infrastructure Improvements: Investments in housing, water, and sanitation infrastructure, especially in colonias, are critical for improving living conditions.
Support for Vulnerable Populations: Tailored programs for individuals with disabilities and other vulnerable groups can ensure they receive the necessary support to thrive.