Contact: Lawrence Roybal at 277-1804

September 17, 2002 SELF RELIANCE FOUNDATION AT UNM REACHES OUT TO HISPANICS "Celebra La Ciencia," at the New Mexico State Fair is one more way the Self Reliance Foundation (SRF) at UNM helps Hispanics succeed. Though community service is a big part of SRF, its main goal is to assist Hispanics across the country. SRF student fellows input data into a national database that can be easily accessed by Hispanics. The data includes information on legal, health, educational and consumer issues. Fellows contact organizations that are willing to provide low cost or free assistance in those areas. Individuals can call the national hotline at 1-800-473-3003 and speak to a bilingual operator to receive a referral to helpful parties in their local area. The SRF concentrates on Hispanics, but offers services to anyone in need. Student fellows are part of a work-study and volunteer program. SRF is a joint project between UNM, Pepperdine University and University of California San Diego. SRF staff advisor and Associate Director for Recruitment Services Lawrence Roybal directs the fellows using his national and even international contacts. When fellows are not inputting data, Roybal helps them plan community service projects, which consume a third of their time. Recently, the fellows translated the tours at the Zoo Day and Biological Day. During the Summer Bridge Program, they mentored 10 students in math and English. The SRF is not a just a job, it is enjoyable and "it's very rewarding," said student fellow Julia Tapia. "I feel I'm making a difference." With a current membership of seven fellows, the SRF is looking to recruit three more bilingual students. To become a member, an individual must fill out an application and go through an interview process. For more information about the SRF or its upcoming events, contact Daisy Ortega at 277-0593 or Lawrence Roybal at 277-1804.

The University of New Mexico
Public Affairs Department
Hodgin Hall, 2nd floor
Albuquerque, NM 87131-0011
Telephone: (505) 277-5813
Fax: (505) 277-1981