Colorado Latino Leadership Advocacy & Research Organization
About Colorado Latino Leadership Advocacy & Research Organization
Rooted in Denver's Latino community since its founding in 1964, the Colorado Latino Leadership, Advocacy & Research Organization (CLLARO) carries a six-decade legacy of service and transformation. Originally established as LARASA—the Latin American Research and Service Agency—during an era of widespread segregation, CLLARO emerged from a historic partnership between community leaders Lena Archuleta, Charles Tafoya, and Bernie Valdez and became the nation's first collaborative agreement between a United Fund and a Latino nonprofit organization. Today, CLLARO remains deeply committed to its original vision: helping Latino communities empower themselves politically, socially, and economically to strengthen Colorado. The organization recognizes that while Latinos have deep historical roots in Colorado dating to the 1600s, contemporary disparities in health, education, career opportunities, housing, income security, and dignity persist at unacceptable levels. CLLARO's mission directly addresses these challenges through intentional relationship-building with the communities it serves. The organization's bilingual and bicultural staff bring acute awareness of Colorado's local Latino community context, ensuring that all work—from leadership development to research initiatives—reflects genuine community needs and aspirations. With a vision of a Colorado where Latinos achieve their fullest potential, CLLARO stands as a trusted partner for Latino communities seeking to navigate and influence the political, social, and economic systems that shape their lives and futures in Denver and across the state.