Its beginnings a century ago were modest: a converted home adjacent to Our Lady of Guadalupe Church that operated as a settlement house and gathering place for the growing number of Mexican immigrants on Kansas City’s west side.

Today, Guadalupe Centers, Inc., is a community anchor—the longest continuously running Latino-serving organization in the nation. Offerings range from early childhood, elementary, high school, and adult educational programs to health and social services, cultural events, and social activities.

Amid a yearlong commemoration of the 100th anniversary of its founding in 1919, CEO Cris Medina sits down with Library Director Crosby Kemper III for a wide-ranging discussion of the Guadalupe Centers—its history, its legacy and impact on a still-growing Latino and Hispanic community, and its future.