Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does "MANA" stand for?
MANA used to stand for the Mexican American National Association, named when it was originally founded in 1974 by Mexican-American women. In January 1994, members voted to become MANA, A National Latina Organization, to reflect the growing diversity of its membership. Today, MANA is the largest national pan-Latina membership organization.

What does MANA do?
MANA empowers Latinas through leadership development, community service, and advocacy.

Is MANA a membership organization?
Yes.

Does MANA include all Latinas or just Mexican-American Latinas?
MANA includes all Latinas of Mexican, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Cuban, Central American, South American, and Spanish decent.

Where is MANA located?
The MANA National office is in Washington, DC.  Local Chapters are located throughout the United States. University Chapters are welcome too. If you are interested in starting a University MANA Chapter in the United States, please contact us.

How can I contact the MANA national office?
You can call the national office at (202) 833-0060, fax at (202) 496-0588, e-mail at hermana2@aol.com, or write to MANA, A National Latina Organization, 1146 19th Street NW, Ste. 700 Washington DC, 20036.

What are the benefits of being a MANA member?
A MANA member becomes part of a nationwide community network; receives publications concerning Latinas such as the MANA Newsletter; can participate in educational programs and conferences; has access to educational scholarships; receives a MANA pin, access to leadership development at annual conference and institutes; access grant opportunities; and much more.

How is MANA funded?
MANA is funded through membership dues, corporations, foundations, and government grants.

Who are the MANA’s Board of Directors?
MANA is governed by a 15 member Board of Directors elected by its membership.

Who are MANA’s members?
MANA members are homemakers, college students, government employees, and professionals in accounting, education, law enforcement, politics, philanthropy, social work, science, health, engineering, the media, law, artists, entertainers, and elected and appointed officials.

What kind of information does MANA provide?
MANA publishes information of importance to Latinas, their families and the Hispanic community.