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Strong Families, Strong Communities

Welcome to HACAN, nurturing resilience and unity in families through education, advocacy, and support since 1985.

2024 In The Numbers

Thanks to your unwavering support, 2024 has been a year of significant achievements for us! We're excited to continue this momentum and make even greater strides in the coming year.

2340

Volunteer Hours

38

Community Engagement Events

486

Classes & Program Activities

598

Individual Served

Our Programs

Discover how our programs nurture family connections, develop young leaders,
and promote child safety. 

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Get Involved

Support HACAN's mission in two ways: donate directly to enrich our impactful programs, or contribute to Padrinos, helping 60 children thrive in our Morning Star program. Your generosity bolsters our commitment to Strong Families, Strong Communities.

Our
Mission

To strengthen families, empower youth, and prevent child abuse and neglect through culturally competent education, intervention, and community advocacy.

About HACAN

Strengthening families and communities with culturally relevant programs since 1985. Explore HACAN's journey.

Upcoming Events

See our upcoming events and register to be part of our movement and inspire others. 

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Our Sponsors

Old Dominion Bank Logo
HealthKeepers Logo
The Community Foundation Logo
Rooted Humanity Logo
Fairfac County Logo
United Way Logo
Scavenger Hunts by Let's Roam
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Kiwanis Logo

Our History

Our Founder, Carmen Fernandez
December 26, 1932 - September 17, 2021

Our founder, Carmen, has been a lifelong advocate for the underprivileged. Her journey began in her youth, ministering to impoverished families in La Lisa, a small rural town, and deepened during a faith-affirming mission trip to Mexico. After studying social work at the University of Havana, Carmen immigrated to the United States in 1960. She continued her education at George Mason University, balancing academics with family life alongside her husband, Jorge. Her passion for social work led her to obtain a Master’s degree from The Catholic University of America, culminating in a rewarding 25-year career with Arlington County’s Child Protective Services.

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Here, Carmen recognized the unique challenges Spanish-speaking immigrants face in child protective services and the broader struggles of parenting in a new cultural landscape. In 1985, this insight and commitment to service inspired her to establish Hispanics Against Child Abuse and Neglect (HACAN). Her vision was clear: to fortify families, empower youth, and prevent child abuse through culturally aware education and advocacy. Under her leadership, HACAN has become a beacon of hope and support in the community.

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Get Involved

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ABOUT US & CONTACT

HACAN, advocating for diverse families since 1985, focuses on child safety and family empowerment in Northern Virginia. Join us in building Strong Families and Strong Communities.

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REGISTERED CHARITY:

Combined Federal Campaign # 48301

United Way # 8719

HACAN is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization

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© 2025 HACAN. All Rights Reserved

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