Two community advocates have been selected to lead the annual fundraising campaign for Centro Hispano in Reading.
Mike Toledo, president and CEO of the nonprofit organization, announced Monday that Victor and Dena Hammel will serve as chairs for the 2025 annual appeal.
“We are grateful to Vic and Dena for continuing their support of our work through this leadership role,” he said. “Their commitment to the city of Reading and our greater Berks community is laudable and we thank them for including us in their advocacy.”
The center is an organization dedicated to supporting the Latino population in Berks County through collaborative initiatives designed to enable individuals and families to improve their lives and their communities.
Victor Hammel is a retired CEO of Ehrlich Pest Control. He has formerly served as president of the Jewish Federation of Reading, chairman of the Reading Hospital Board of Trustees and president of the Greater Berks Food Bank.
Dena Hammel, a retired social worker, has served as a board member for the GoggleWorks Center for the Arts.
The Wyomissing couple have previously led a similar campaign, raising funds for Penn State Berks.
“We are so impressed with all that Centro Hispano does for the Berks County Latino community,” the couple said. “It enhances the lives of senior citizens, assures nutrition for people in need, provides vocational training and so much more. We’re honored to be working with the people and staff of Centro Hispano and support their invaluable work.”
The center’s annual appeal campaign will run from Nov. 15 to Dec. 31. Details about how to donate, and more information about the programs and services the nonprofit provides can be found at centrohispano.org.