Earlier this month, Comcast NBCUniversal Telemundo was proud to support the 2017 NCLR Annual Conference in Phoenix, Arizona, where the nation’s largest Hispanic civil rights organization officially changed its name to UnidosUS. This conference was an important milestone, marking an opportunity to celebrate 49 years of NCLR history in the city where the organization was founded, while also charting a new course for the future.

The word Unidos means united and underscores the strength of a diverse community working together toward common goals. At Comcast NBCUniversal Telemundo, the new name complements our commitment to super serve our Hispanic customers with the best and most diverse content, products, and services that reflect different experiences and perspectives. For me, this name is a symbol of the power of inclusion and what is possible when people come together.

Our long-term partnership with UnidosUS is based on shared values and a strong commitment to the Hispanic community. As we enter the next chapter in our partnership, Comcast NBCUniversal Telemundo is proud to announce that we are carrying forward the Comcast Digital Innovation Program that we launched last year for an additional year.

In Phoenix, I enjoyed the opportunity to meet with more than 40 UnidosUS leaders, including representatives from Philadelphia-based Congreso and Chicago-based HACE, all working with our company to improve digital literacy for Hispanic families through local community-based programs.

The Digital Innovation Program provided 12 new grants during last year’s conference and will provide as many as 30 total grants to UnidosUS Affiliates to support existing programs that expose Latinos, often for the first time, to digital tools, teach digital literacy, or operate blended-learning programs. The program is designed to complement existing and emerging initiatives that improve the well-being of Latinos through increased and more effective use of technology. Eligible organizations can learn more about this program here. Applications will be accepted through August 18th and funded programs will be announced on September 8th.

As we approach the 50th Anniversary of UnidosUS in Washington, DC next year, I am confident that together, unidos, Comcast NBCUniversal Telemundo and UnidosUS will continue to uplift the U.S. Hispanic community with collaboration and programs like the Digital Innovation Grant Program. We look forward to working with affiliates across the UnidosUS network to advance the U.S. Hispanic community.