Exchange Park is preparing to welcome international visitors from eight countries this weekend for International Consulate Day. The event aims to provide Spanish-speaking residents convenient access to documentation and health services in one location.
This is the second year that the Latin Exchange Club of Charleston, the Exchange Club of Charleston, and the Charleston Hispanic Association have hosted this event.
It promises to streamline the process for residents needing assistance with passports, birth certificates, ID card renewals, and other documentation. Consulates from Mexico, Colombia, El Salvador, the Dominican Republic, Guatemala, Argentina, Chile, and Spain will be on hand to assist the community directly.
In addition to documentation services, the event will feature health organizations offering a health fair, such as the Shifa Clinic, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control, MUSC, and Palmetto CAP. Guests will have access to these health services throughout the weekend as needed.
The event’s primary goal is to save residents both time and money by providing necessary resources locally, eliminating the need for them to travel out of state for assistance. Organizations scheduling the event on the weekend ensure that more people can participate without worrying about conflicting work schedules.
Luigi Bravo, President of the Latin Exchange Club, emphasizes the importance of making such resources accessible to the community. He acknowledges this event’s significant impact, particularly for those who would otherwise travel long distances to receive assistance.
Bravo anticipates the event’s continued growth and expansion, hoping that additional countries, such as Ecuador and Brazil, will join in future editions.
Organizers are optimistic about the event’s success, expecting double the turnout from the year’s 1500 attendees. The event will be free from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and from 9 a.m. to noon on Sunday.
