Together with other organizations, at ALAFAVE we believe that light is more than a decorative or functional element; it is a symbol of hope, opportunity, and transformation. For this reason, during our upcoming congress, we have decided to bring the flame of our industry to a place where it is urgently needed: the Hope Community Center in Florida.
If you have never heard of this organization, allow us to share its story and recount our visit to its facilities. We assure you—it is one of those stories that leaves a lasting impression.
Where It All Began: With a Big Heart and a Strong Will to Help
As we stood before the main mural at the center’s facilities, one of its directors shared how, in the 1970s, three Catholic nuns arrived in Apopka, Florida, with a single mission: to support the most vulnerable communities. They did not come with detailed plans or predefined strategies. They came to listen. To understand. To live alongside the community before even considering how they could contribute.
That was the true beginning of the Hope Community Center: a gathering space where individuals could learn, grow, and find support in a country that often feels like an entirely new world.
The Power of Education: Transforming Lives, One Word at a Time
One of the most impactful offerings at Hope is education. This extends beyond traditional classes—it involves providing real tools that empower individuals. As we learned during our visit:
“At our foundation, we receive young people who arrive without speaking a word of English and offer them language instruction so they can adapt to life in this country.”
Consider what this truly means. It is not merely about learning English; it is about opening doors, alleviating fear of the unknown, and giving people the confidence to speak, to work, and to become active members of their communities.
In addition to English classes, Hope also offers tutoring programs for children, literacy courses for adults, and scholarships for students. Each of these initiatives has a direct and profound impact on the lives of hundreds of Latino and immigrant families in Florida.
More Than a Foundation—A Family
What sets Hope apart is not just what it teaches, but how it does so. Here, education is not treated as a privilege, but as a fundamental human right. It is a vehicle that lifts people out of poverty, equips them for growth, and, most importantly, reminds them that they are not alone.
At ALAFAVE, along with the National Candle Association (NCA) and the European Candle Manufacturers Association (ECMA), we believe that knowledge—like the light of a candle—must be shared and spread. This is why we are committed to supporting the Hope Community Center with our donation during the upcoming congress.
