Our Story
Casa de Amistad is a is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering the Athens Latino community and neighbors across Northeast Georgia through educational programs that foster connection, develop skills, and support integration to build a stronger, more connected place to live, work, and grow.
Guided by the values of relationships, empowerment, collaborative learning, and community strength, we lead with innovative programs that empower individuals and build a more united community.
In 2000, Casa de Amistad was founded to address a housing crisis that displaced many Hispanic families in Athens, Georgia. What began as a grassroots effort has evolved into a powerful nonprofit focused on education and community empowerment.
Today, our primary focus is on adult education programs. We believe that learning is a bridge that connects cultures and languages, and we are committed to providing a welcoming space where all neighbors can learn, grow, and build strong relationships. Our services are always free and open to everyone, as we work to build a stronger, more united Athens for all.
2000
CDA began after the Garden Springs sale, when Hispanic families faced displacement and local residents with churches united to provide urgent support
2003
Community fundraising launched outreach, making it possible to hire a dedicated social worker serving the Hispanic community in Northeast Georgia
2004
CDA opened its first office; the social worker became Executive Director, starting community classes, literacy programs, and vital support groups for families
2009
CDA gained 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, a milestone that expanded its reach, strengthened services, and formalized its growing impact across the region
2020
Amid COVID-19, CDA led the Fondo Solidario, fulfilling 1,000+ aid requests and hosting food drives, PPE, testing, and vaccine clinics for Hispanic families
2024
With a growing volunteer network, Casa de Amistad pioneered its signature curriculum built on a 1-to-1 student-to-volunteer model.
Our Mission
Casa de Amistad empowers the Athens Latino community and neighbors across Northeast Georgia through educational programs that foster connection, develop skills, and support integration to build a stronger, more connected place to live, work, and grow.
Our Purpose
Our purpose is to create opportunities for learning and connection that empower the Latino community and neighbors in the Athens area to collaborate and build a stronger future.
Our Vision
We envision an Athens where education bridges cultures and languages, enabling neighbors to connect with empathy and curiosity. Through these connections, we build a collaborative community that is stronger and more united.