Washington, D.C., May 6, 2004 – The National Board of Directors of MANA, A National Latina Organization (MANA) voted to approve the application of a new local chapter, MANA de Metro Denver. This new chapter joins the network of MANA Chapters across the country, which share the mission to “empower Latinas through community service, leadership development, and advocacy”. MANA de Metro Denver is the twentieth chapter in MANA’s network.

The chapter’s charter will be presented during a reception on Friday, May 21, 2004. MANA National will host this reception to honor the new chapter and to recognize its chapter officers, led by Lorenza Maksimow. The reception will take place from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the Hotel Monaco in Denver. Members of the press who are interested in attending should contact Lorenza Maksimow at (303) 665-5921.

The MANA National Board of Directors is very pleased to announce the chartering of the new chapter and to provide its members with the opportunities that all MANA Chapters enjoy. Alma Morales Riojas, President and CEO of MANA stated, “I am very impressed with the caliber of women in this chapter and with their dedication to the mission and vision of MANA. I look forward to watching the chapter develop to serve the needs of the Hispanic community in Denver through MANA’s turnkey programs.”

Lorenza Maksimow, Chair of MANA de Metro Denver stated, “As the Latino population in the greater Denver area grows exponentially, this is a very exciting time for the chapter to develop and serve local needs. Our chapter leadership is passionate and committed to help develop Latina leadership through training and MANA’s National Hermanitas® Mentoring Program.”

For more information on MANA membership, please contact the MANA National Office at (202) 833-0060 or by email at hermana2@aol.com. For information about membership in MANA de Metro Denver, contact Chapter Chair Lorenza Maksimow at (303) 665-5921.

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MANA, A National Latina Organization, is a nonprofit, advocacy organization headquartered in the nation's capital, Washington, D. C. With chapters across the country, it is the oldest National Latina membership organization in the United States. MANA, whose mission is to empower Latinas through leadership development, community service, and advocacy, envisions a national community of informed Latina activists working to improve the quality of life for all Hispanics. MANA also has the only national young Latina's mentoring program for girls 11 to 17, "HERMANITAS®" which brings over 100 girls to Washington DC to a summer institute that includes a briefing at the White House and a visit to the girls' Congressional representatives Information on MANA can be obtained at the web site: www.hermana.org or send an e-mail to hermana2@aol.com