La Casa de Amistad

La Casa de Amistad accompanies and celebrates Latino and immigrant communities through culturally grounded advocacy, educational, and social services.

La Casa de Amistad was formed on October 17, 1973, in response to the profound needs confronting Latino teenagers. Founded by Fr. John Phalen, C.S.C., and many other dedicated Latino community leaders, La Casa de Amistad offered various programs in an effort to assist Hispanic youth in self-acceptance and appreciation of their culture. By 1975, La Casa operated out of an old home on Warren Street on the West Side of South Bend and incorporated as an official nonprofit with just one full-time staff person. The needs of the community grew, as did the reputation of the impact La Casa had on the youth it served, and La Casa began to expand further and added a food pantry to support neighbors of all ages in need.

In 1980 it became apparent a bigger space was needed and La Casa moved it’s operation to 746 South Meade Street to a re-purposed, two-story neighborhood general store. The Latino population in South Bend continued to grow, and La Casa remained committed to expanded programs alongside community members' requests, always there to support their journey to success in their new home of Northern Indiana. La Casa operated out of 746 South Meade Street for 40 years and expanded programs over the years to include a preschool, summer camp, computer classes, English classes, citizenship classes, and a legal clinic. Over the years, as the community's needs have evolved, so has La Casa, expanding its embrace to youth and adults, immigrants, seasonal workers, and tirelessly advocating for local families.

In 2021, La Casa completed a $3.25 million capital campaign to purchase and renovate a 40,000-square-foot commercial building that will give the organization room to grow for decades, right alongside the needs of the growing Latino community in South Bend, St. Joseph County, and surrounding counties.

Throughout its journey, La Casa has remained steadfast in its original mission: empowering youth and families to thrive in today's complex world while nurturing a deep pride in their cultural roots. Many Latino leaders and community members have not only benefited from La Casa's services but have also actively contributed to the implementation of transformative programs. Supported by the enduring dedication of the community, La Casa de Amistad continues to respond wholeheartedly to the ever-evolving needs of its newest neighbors.