In 1997 a few Latinos recognized that no organization existed in the Western part of the state which fostered Latino Leadership or was lead by Latinos.  ALAS began with just a few Latinos meeting to address issues which the community faces:  language barriers, lack of access to services, and public safety.  We realized our community was in need of better and more social services and because many of  us were bilingual, and professionals or paraprofessionals, we were the natural bridge to communities. 

ALAS developed an organization which provides a voice for the Latino community.  Our monthly newsletter, La Pluma, was the first bilingual publication in the western part of the state.  We hold monthly meetings with special speakers who address the critical issues our community faces.  Some of our guests have included elected officials, city/county department heads, and even school superintendents.  ALAS has grown from just a few Latinos to now a network of over 600 Latinos and non-Latinos throughout Western North Carolina.  Today, ALAS hosts various events which address public policy issues and provide meeting places for the Latino and non-Latino communities.