Western Union Sponsors PBS Documentary On NCLR Contributions.

Western Union Financial Services, Inc. announced its sponsorship of the PBS television documentary Voices of Vision airing this fall. Not only will Western Union continue to support NCLR’s education division initiatives, but it also committed to make the PBS documentary available in Spanish to all of NCLR’s 300 affiliates in 37 states, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia.

A compilation of archival and present day footage, Voices of Vision recounts the stories of individuals and organizations whose humanitarian and leadership efforts are making a significant impact on societal problems around the country and worldwide. The documentary explores the challenges that non-profits face in tackling issues such as human rights, childhood cancer, corporate responsibility and environmental preservation. The National Council of La Raza’s initiatives will be featured in one of the 30-minute episodes. This marks the first time NCLR’s contributions have been highlighted in a documentary on public television.

Established in 1968, NCLR committed to reduce poverty and discrimination, and improve life opportunities for Hispanic Americans. Now celebrating its 35th anniversary, NCLR initiatives have expanded into leadership development for Latino youth, education and health. “NCLR was founded in a time of great adversity when Hispanics were not afforded basic civil rights,” Raul Yzaguirre, president of NCLR said. “Through our efforts, the quality of life and opportunities for our community have improved. The producers of Voices of Vision have not only acknowledged our contributions, but also recognized the need for advancement of Hispanics in the U.S.”

“Through our own community initiatives and by supporting organizations like NCLR, Western Union is taking every opportunity to empower Hispanics toward excellence and credit those who have a long history of changing and developing their communities,” said Sharon Alexander Holt, director of community development for Western Union. “We were committed to underwrite this PBS special to bring a greater awareness to NCLR’s endeavors in the educational arena.”