IACO Immigration and American Citizenship Organization celebrated a significant milestone with its 2024 Immigrant Integration Conference and 25th Anniversary, “A Tribute to Immigrant Success and Integration,” held October 16-18 in Paterson, NJ. With over 300 people in attendance over the three days, the event underscored IACO’s dedication to serving the Latino immigrant community with essential resources, partnerships, and celebrations.

On October 16, the conference kicked off with a series of activities on immigration topics, including a Citizenship Campaign organized in collaboration with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), where attendees participated in free eligibility screenings. A roundtable focused on resources for victims of domestic violence, crime, and human trafficking was also held, featuring the Passaic County District Attorney and bilingual advocates and counselors.

The second day, October 17, included two roundtable discussions: one with the consuls of Colombia, Peru, El Salvador, and Mexico, and another with representatives from state agencies such as the NJ Department of Labor and Workforce Development, NJ Department of Health, Office of New Americans, Women’s Division, and Latino Action Network Foundation (LANF). Additionally, a services fair was held with informational booths from organizations of interest to the community, where attendees received key information about resources and services, along with free COVID-19 vaccines and home testing kits.

The conference concluded on October 18 with a celebration of IACO’s 25th anniversary at the Passaic County Community College Theatre. Attendees enjoyed cultural performances and a scholarship ceremony, where 25 immigrant students were awarded scholarships to support their studies.

IACO expresses its deepest gratitude to all participating organizations, partners, and sponsors who made this event possible. Their contributions were instrumental in providing crucial resources, strengthening the sense of community, and celebrating the achievements of the immigrant community. This free and open-to-the-public event highlighted IACO’s commitment to integration, empowerment, and support for the immigrant community, celebrating both its legacy and the successes of the immigrant community.