Become a Volunteer!
Make a real difference in the lives of Latino families right here in Manchester.
When you volunteer with the Manchester Latino Affairs Council (MLAC), you help strengthen community connections, expand access to resources, and uplift cultural pride.
Your time, your voice, and your passion can create lasting change.
Join us in building a stronger, more inclusive Manchester.
If interested, please send us an email below.
Coming Soon - Casa y Comunidad Programa
Casa y Comunidad Programa, is a one-year initiative designed to connect Manchester residents with housing supports, emergency assistance, home repair resources, and financial readiness education, ensuring families not only find homes but sustain them.
More information to come. MLAC anticipates rolling out the program by 8.1.2026.
MLAC's Multicultural Pageant
MLAC has partnered with the Mr. & Miss Folklore USA – Multicultural Pageant. Bringing our community to this regional celebration of cultural heritage, diversity, and community pride. Designed as an inclusive platform for individuals from all backgrounds, the pageant highlights the richness of global traditions through cultural attire, talent presentations, and personal storytelling. Contestants serve as ambassadors of unity, showcasing the beauty of their roots while promoting cross‑cultural understanding.
Cultural Heritage
Participants proudly represent their ancestral traditions through fashion, music, dance, and narrative
Diversity and Inclusion
The pageant embraces all cultures, fostering unity and respect among communities
Community Leadership
Titleholders serve as cultural ambassadors, promoting education, representation, and cultural pride
Dr. Maria W. Cruz, Founder & CEO
Our History
The Manchester Latino Affairs Council (MLAC) is a nonprofit organization that empowers the Latino community in Manchester, CT, by promoting education, economic opportunities, housing assistance, cultural awareness, and social equity through outreach programs and advocacy. Since then, we have grown into a thriving nonprofit, serving hundreds of individuals each year.
MLAC's Board of Directors
Behind every initiative we launch and every family we serve is a dedicated group of leaders who believe in making a difference. Our Board of Directors represents the heart of our organization by bringing diverse experiences, community insight, and a shared goal of creating lasting change.
Get to know the individuals who help shape our mission and move it forward.
Mrs. Jessee Muñiz-Poland - Chair
Mrs. Jessee Muñiz-Poland has been a proud member of the Manchester community for 25 years. A graduate of Springfield College, she has dedicated her career to advocating for families, children and the elderly. Mrs. Jessee Muñiz-Poland is a strong advocate for diversity, equity, and inclusion. She is a member of the Board of Directors in the Town of Manchester and serves on a number of Boards and Commissions. Mrs. Jessee Muñiz-Poland has been a member of MLAC for over 10 years having served as Vice Chair of MLAC and is currently the Chair. She is committed to ensuring that Manchester residents are provided and have access to the essential resources.
Mrs. Milka Frison - Vice Chair
Mrs. Milka Frison has over ten years of experience with Manchester Public Schools, where she serves as an Administrative Assistant/Registrar in the Office of Partnership & Engagement. Her work focuses on strengthening community connections, supporting effective operations, and fostering clear, inclusive communication across our diverse school community. Mrs. Milka Frison is committed to collaboration, strong partnerships, and ensuring all voices are heard. Mrs. Milka Frison has been a member of MLAC for approximately one year and currently serves as Vice Chair.
Outside of her professional and leadership roles, she enjoys crafting, traveling with her family, and spending quality time with her husband and daughter.
Pastor Beatrice Santiago - Treasurer
Pastor Beatrice Santiago is the pastor of Ministerio Nueva Creación, a bilingual Hispanic ministry that worships in partnership with Concordia Lutheran Church. She is a dedicated faith leader committed to sharing the Gospel, fostering spiritual growth, and strengthening families through Christ-centered ministry. Through her leadership, she works to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where individuals and families can deepen their faith, build community, and serve others. Pastor Santiago is passionate about outreach, discipleship, and empowering people to live out God's purpose in their daily lives. She has been a leader representing our local Lutheran churches and is a strong partner to MLAC. She has worked together with MLAC for approximately five years and currently serves as the Treasurer.
Mrs. Carlira Hodge - Director
Mrs. Carlira Hodge is a high school Spanish teacher dedicated to culturally responsive instruction and meaningful student engagement. Born in Puerto Rico with Dominican heritage, she integrates language, culture, and identity into her classroom to help students build authentic connections.
She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Spanish Education (K–12) from Central Connecticut State University and completed study abroad coursework at the University of Salamanca in Spain. She co-advises the Hola Alliance at Manchester High School, promoting cultural pride, leadership, and community engagement.
Currently, she is completing her Master’s degree in Applied Linguistics (TESOL), with a focus on bilingual language development and strategies to support multilingual learners. Mrs. Carlira Hodge is a Director serving her first term on the Board of Directors for MLAC.
Mr. Enrique Marcano - Director
In 2007, Mr. Enrique Marcano identified the need for Latino representation and advocacy in Manchester. He worked alongside Dr. Cruz, supporting the recruitment efforts and the rollout of the Manchester Latino Affairs Council (MLAC). Mr. Marcano is a retired military veteran, social worker, and former probation officer for the State of Connecticut. Mr. Enrique Mercano is a director serving her first term on the Board of Directors for MLAC.