Honoring Donors, Recipients and Supporters During Hispanic Heritage Month

In the month of September, we begin honoring Hispanic Heritage Month, a national celebration that recognizes the history, culture, and contributions of Hispanics and Latinos in the United States. From September 15 to October 15, communities, organizations, and businesses nationwide host events to highlight and celebrate this heritage

The need for lifesaving organ transplants affects all communities regardless of race, ethnicity, age, or sex; however, when it comes to race, there is an even greater need for organ transplants among diverse communities. Transplants rely on the generosity of organ and tissue donors, and there is a need for more people of color to sign up as organ, eye, and tissue donors in our region and in our country.

The national theme for Hispanic Heritage Month in the U.S. for 2025 is “Collective Heritage: Honoring the Past, Inspiring the Future”. This theme encourages the recognition of the rich histories, traditions, and achievements of Hispanic and Latinos in America, while also looking ahead to the creativity and promise of future generations. 

Horning Hispanic Heritage Month: The History and Significance.

Hispanic Heritage Month, officially established in the United States in 1988, aligns with the independence anniversaries of several Latin American countries. It honors the countless contributions of Hispanic and Latinx communities—from civil rights leaders like César Chávez to cultural icons such as Selena Quintanilla. Beyond celebration, its purpose is to foster awareness, appreciation, and unity by highlighting the rich diversity of Hispanic and Latinx cultures, promoting inclusivity, and recognizing their profound impact on American society.

That’s why celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month carries such deep significance. It offers a moment to acknowledge and honor the invaluable contributions and vibrant cultures of Hispanic and Latino Americans. More than a commemoration, it stands as a powerful platform to champion diversity, strengthen community bonds, and spotlight the remarkable heritage and achievements that continue to shape the American story.

The Importance of Organ Donation within the Hispanic Community

The importance of organ donation within the Hispanic community cannot be overstated. It is crucial to educate the community about the urgent need for organ and tissue donation, as Hispanics are disproportionately affected by the scarcity of available organs for transplant. In Colorado and Wyoming, the demand for organ transplants among Hispanic individuals is on the rise, with a growing number of people waiting for lifesaving organ transplants. Nearly 103,000 people across the United States are on the waitlist for a lifesaving organ transplant. More than 24,000 of those people are from Hispanic communities.

By May 2025, around 26,549 Hispanic individuals were waiting for an organ transplant in the United States—about 22.6% of all candidates on the national list. This figure highlights the growing demand for transplants in the Hispanic community, where conditions such as kidney disease and fatty liver disease occur at disproportionately high rates. And while the number of Hispanic organ donors has risen, a wide gap still persists between those in need of a transplant and the number of organs donated within the community.

Advocating for increased donor registration among Hispanics is essential to address this disparity to save and heal more lives. Organizations like Donor Alliance, a nonprofit that saves and heals lives through organ and tissue donation for transplantation in Colorado and most of Wyoming, play a pivotal role in raising awareness about the importance of organ and tissue donation. It highlights the significance of community engagement and support to meet the pressing needs of the Hispanic population and ensure access to lifesaving transplants.

Donor Alliance: Honoring Organ and Tissue Donors, Celebrating Lives Saved, and Recognizing Those Who Wait from Hispanic Communities.

As Donor Alliance honors Hispanic Heritage Month, we want to highlight a few local stories about donation and transplantation.

Adilem, Liver Recipient. Colorado Springs

Jaime, Cornea Recipient. Aurora Colorado

Aris & his son Dominic. Supporters in Colorado

MEET GUADALUPE, A RECIPIENT FROM CASPER, WY

Guadalupe was born in Lima, Peru; in 2010, she moved to Casper, Wyoming. Guadalupe went for a routine examination when her medical team discovered her kidney function was abnormal. Guadalupe learned she had stage three chronic kidney disease due to genetics and would need a kidney transplant to save her life. Read more about Guadalupe’s transplant journey here.