Emporia Spanish Speakers Creates a Bridge to Bring Residents Together

The population of Emporia, Kansas, has remained stable at 24,000 residents for the past decade, but the Hispanic population is flourishing. A third of Emporia residents are Hispanic and play a significant role in the economy. LeLan Dains, founder of Emporia Spanish Speakers, is working to bring all residents of Lyon County together by offering resources to those with limited English while inviting non-Hispanic residents to explore new cultures.

“We often refer to ourselves as a bridge,” says Dains. “Many groups focus on helping one side or another, but we believe strongly in helping people on both sides of the bridge come together in the middle.”

What started as a social club has evolved into a 501(c)3 non-profit and a full-time job for Dains and his staff. Keep reading to discover the great work this organization does and how it makes Emporia more economically resilient.

Emporia Spanish Speakers Has Social Outings for All Residents

The easiest way to get to know ESS is to attend one of its events. The group has various outings and activities that bring Hispanic and non-Hispanic residents together. One of the most popular events is Vamos Explorar, where people of all nationalities go hiking on various local trails.

Dains says that Americans often take for granted that they can visit local parks and have access to these public spaces. Many immigrants don’t know how to access these areas and what they can do there. Vamos Explorar opens the natural beauty of Kansas to anyone who attends and makes public parks feel more accessible. This event also creates opportunities for casual conversations during the hike.  

“The most transformative moments in our lives can come from the most basic things,” says Dains. “The number of friendships that I have made is extraordinary. It’s hard to imagine not having these people in my life.” 

Emporia Spanish Speakers Provides Resources to the Hispanic Community

Dains started ESS as a social group to practice his Spanish and invites anyone in Lyon County who wants to learn about Hispanic cultures to participate in events. But his work supporting the other side of the bridge makes Dains an essential leader in the community.

Emporia Spanish Speakers helps immigrants get the documentation they need to live and work here legally. It also assists people with challenges like applying for housing, setting up utilities, and navigating government offices that don’t have Spanish resources. The organization works with both immigrants and citizens with limited English.

Dains recognizes the value of the Hispanic community in Emporia, especially for filling workforce needs. He uses the motto “document don’t deport” to highlight the value of creating pathways to citizenship.

“These are hard-working, tax-paying members of our community,” says Dains. “If Emporia wants to grow, Hispanics have to be a significant portion of the strategy.”

The Hispanic Community Drives the Emporia Economy

Many Emporia immigrants start their own businesses when they move here and create jobs for other residents. Immigrant entrepreneurs account for 18% of business owners with employees, making up a significant portion of the Lyon County small business community.  

“Like any environment, diversity is the key to thriving, not just surviving,” says Dains. “The Chamber of Commerce, Emporia Main Street, and the RDA can all benefit from investing in the Hispanic community.”

Dains has seen the value of marketing to Hispanic communities during his time at Visit Emporia. Hispanic families already visit Lyon County to enjoy fun getaways. By actively marketing to Spanish speakers, Emporia can grow its tourism base and hospitality economy.

So far, the greater Emporia community has responded well to Dains and ESS. When the Tyson plant closed, ESS was invited to discuss ways to support the displaced employees – 60% of whom speak Spanish. The organization worked to help workers fill out job applications, build resumes, and connect with other organizations that could help them.

“The work we have done has been crucial,” says Dains. “This means that people are more likely to stay in our community.”

Anyone Can Get Involved With Emporia Spanish Speakers

ESS is still growing, which means it needs support from the Emporia community. Volunteers can donate funds or volunteer their time by contributing any skills they have. Businesses in the area can also fund the efforts of ESS.

Newman Regional Hospital recently entered into a three-year partnership with ESS to help Spanish speakers get health insurance. This leads to better health outcomes because communities can get more preventative treatment or receive early intervention if they need medical care.

“I’m thankful that people understand the importance of this work and continue investing in what we do,” says Dains.

Along with supporting Emporia Spanish Speakers, learn more about the Emporia Regional Development Association (RDA). The RDA works to create opportunities for all Emporia residents, regardless of their background. Get involved with the RDA and help Emporia grow with diverse opportunities and vibrant cultures. Follow us to learn more.