Welcome Center

Specialties

The Welcome Center serves the City of Austin as the community’s

multi-​cultural center, building community by welcoming newcomers, supporting residents in transition and creating access and opportunity.

History

Established in 2000.

The Welcome Center, Inc. is a 501 (c)3 non-​profit, tax-​exempt corporation founded in June 2000. It organized by a group of concerned citizens who saw a dramatic change in the area’s work force and demographic composition. Recognizing that the change could produce friction and divisiveness or be the basis for a new and inclusive culture, the founders developed the Welcome Center. With the primary financial support from the Hormel Foundation, and additional commitments of local government, businesses, United Way of Mower County, and other founders, the Center began operations.

Meet the Business Owner

Jake V.

Business Owner

Jake Vela serves as the Executive Director of the Welcome Center, a position he has held since April 2010. He holds a degree in Interactive Media and Graphic Design and is an alumnus of the Leadership Austin and Blandin Leadership in Ethnically Diverse Communities program. Mr. Vela has completed a Mini MBA in Nonprofit Management from the University of St. Thomas. He engenders respect, is highly visible in the community, and has a deep appreciation for multicultural understanding and healthy community relations.