Ibero-American Action League plans to move its administrative offices from 817 E. Main St. in Rochester to the campus of St. Michael Church.
The administrative offices will occupy a space at the rear of the church in the former convent at 124 Evergreen St., according to a press release from Ibero. Renovations will soon begin, with a full transition to the new space expected by January 2023.
“We are excited to share the news that Ibero’s headquarters will be back in the heart of North Clinton Avenue,” Angelica Perez-Delgado, Ibero’s president and CEO, said in the press release. “Over the last 53 years, Ibero has advocated and invested resources in this neighborhood. This move brings my leadership team ‘home,’ strengthens connections to the Clinton Avenue community, enhances projects such as the International Plaza, and anchors our beloved St. Michael’s Church. A win all the way around. We believe this is a crucial step for our collective future and helps build on existing assets in the El Camino neighborhood.”
Although poverty and violence exists in the Clinton Avenue neighborhood, there also is life and hope, said Father Daniel Ruiz, pastor of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Parish, which comprises St. Michael, Corpus Christi/Our Lady of the Americas and Annunciation churches.
“There are so many agencies and community leaders hoping and working for a better future for our barrio,” Father Ruiz said in the press release. “Cabrini Parish, of which St. Michael’s Church is part, has always been a force for life in our city, and we have been working hard to bring new life and hope to our neighborhood.”
“Pairing an anchor like Ibero with the iconic institution that is St. Michael’s Church will provide much needed strength and hope,” agreed Miguel Meléndez, Ibero’s chief community engagement officer and president of the Rochester City Council. “I look forward to this partnership as we continue our mission to serve this community.”
EDITOR’S NOTE: Ibero-American Action League is accepting donations toward the $50,000 cost to renovate and move into its new headquarters. To donate, visit www.ibero.org/donate, fill out the online form and select “Move to St. Michaels,” or mail a check or gift card to 817 E. Main St., Rochester, NY 14605.
