Luke Smith, a psychiatrist from Arkansas, founded El Futuro in North Carolina over 20 years ago to address the mental health care barriers faced by Hispanic and Latino patients. Observing difficulties in navigating the health system and building trust with providers, he aimed to create a culturally competent service tailored to their needs.
El Futuro offers therapy, substance use treatment, and support groups for all ages, emphasizing social and linguistic relevance. Smith, while not Latino himself, emphasizes the importance of staff members who can culturally connect with patients. “How do you bridge those trust avenues?” he asked, stressing the need for community engagement in mental health care.
The nonprofit employs a diverse staff from nearly all Latin American countries and provides initial counseling in Spanish at accessible community locations. This approach helps patients feel understood and supported from the start. Dennis Duke, a therapist from El Salvador, highlighted that culturally informed care fosters rapport and aligns with clients’ goals.
El Futuro’s facilities in Silver City and Durham connect clients to nature through community gardens, offer health classes, and host cultural events like Día de los Muertos and Posada. Smith believes that mental wellness extends beyond clinical settings, emphasizing community engagement and cultural celebration as vital to the healing process.
As a nonprofit, El Futuro serves those without insurance or access to traditional health care. With about 18% of Latinos under 65 uninsured, the organization relies on community support. Collaborations with companies like Lenovo and Burt’s Bees enhance their services, providing tech support and resources for patients.
On September 29, El Futuro will celebrate Latino culture with its annual Kermes festival during Hispanic Heritage Month. Smith notes that reconnecting individuals with their cultural identities significantly reduces anxiety and depression, making community events a vital part of treatment. “Fiesta becomes a treatment intervention,” he said.
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