Summit: First Forum of Community Leaders of South Puerto Rico

On February 19, 2010, DISUR held the first meeting of community leaders at the Theater of the Sor Isolina Center in Playa de Ponce. The purpose of the summit was to identify opportunities for collaboration with community organizations in the South Region and exchange information on initiatives and/or strategic projects within the DISUR's action plan. Representatives from different communities in the municipalities of the southern region, representatives of different Christian churches and councils, clergymen and members of the Board of Directors of DISUR, municipal legislatures and the senate attended. In addition, the director of the Center for Faith-Base Initiatives attended.

Community of the Municipality of Ponce, Mr. Angel Ruiz. Among the community organizations present, were the group ECO-MAR, located in the Municipality of Guayama. This organization developed and runs a self-sustaining eco-tourism project that provides economic and social benefits to the Puerto de Jobos Bay community. Members of the Central Cortada community in Santa Isabel also attended. The Central Cortada community members are interested in developing tourism and cultural projects to preserve our traditions and at the same time develop employment opportunities for members of their community. The organization Community Newspapers was also represented by around 12 members, who reside mostly in the communities of Ponce.

During the event DISUR stated it is willing to help those communities that still have not organized as a legal entity. This will have the collaboration and assistance of Rolando Emmanuelli, esq., Vice President of the Board of Directors of DISUR. After that, these groups can join DISUR and everyone can benefit from working together.