Latin American Association
About Latin American Association
Founded in 1972 by Sheriff Deputy Angel Ortiz and Stratton Frank, the Latin American Association has grown from a small operation serving Atlanta's emerging Latino population into the region's most comprehensive agency representing Georgia's Latino issues. What began with Ortiz working from his car trunk—interpreting for families and providing basic resources—has evolved into a trusted institution with deep roots in the Atlanta, GA community and beyond. The LAA's mission to empower Latinos to adapt, integrate, and thrive reflects a commitment to lowering barriers to economic mobility and creating genuine opportunity for all. The organization's vision extends beyond transactional services; it functions as a true community center where families find not just programs but a sense of belonging. Over five decades, the LAA has built unparalleled geographic reach and service breadth, with no other organization in Georgia serving the Latino community offering comparable expertise and longevity. The organization's values—adaptability, accessibility, community, advocacy, and empowerment—guide every initiative, from stabilizing families during challenging times to connecting job seekers with employers. With service centers in Atlanta, Gwinnett County, and Dalton, the LAA maintains physical presence where Latino communities live and work. The organization's impact is measured not just in numbers but in transformed lives: families achieving housing stability, immigrants securing legal status, youth reaching educational goals, and entrepreneurs building sustainable businesses. The LAA's building on Buford Highway stands as both a literal and metaphorical gateway, representing decades of commitment to Georgia's Latino families and their journey toward prosperity and full participation in American life.