The Southeast Texas Hispanic Cultural & Educational Center is dedicated to preserving our rich diverse heritage and improving the quality of life in our community by promoting a positive atmosphere through educational, social, economic and civic opportunities.

The Southeast Texas Hispanic Cultural & Educational Center, Inc. (HCEC) began as the vision of a local citizen, Mr. Gregory Flores. Through his involvement in the community, Mr. Flores observed common needs among the Hispanic community. Many within the community needed help in eliminating language barriers, obtaining educational opportunities and information regarding the various social and economic programs available to residents of the United States. Mr. Flores believed that a center such as the HCEC would help members of the Hispanic community assimilate into the American system while continuing to preserve their individual heritage and culture. Local citizens of various professional and personal backgrounds formed the HCEC as a result of a mutual desire to improve the quality of life for the Hispanic community.