New website aims to empower Winston-Salem's Hispanic community

A new website called Proyecto Mariposa aims to be an online hub for Winston-Salem’s Hispanic community.

Also known as the Butterfly Project, the site launched on February 1. It consolidates news, calendar events, job offerings and other resources into a one-stop hub for the region’s Latino community. 

A statement on the site notes that its inspiration is the mariposa, or butterfly, as a symbol of transformation and renewal. 

Marina Alemán is the executive director of Proyecto Mariposa. She says there is a substantial digital literacy gap in Winston-Salem, and that research shows a lower level of education for the Hispanic community, many of whom don’t speak English.  

"It’s really challenging for the Hispanic community in Winston-Salem to know what is there for them," says Alemán. "Education, special programs, after-school programs, parks and recreation programs. And we decided that it's much better if we can put everything together in only one place."

According to the website, nearly 17% of Winston-Salem’s population is Hispanic, and 72% of those residents are part of the city’s workforce. 

Proyecto Mariposa was funded by an American Rescue Plan Act grant from the city of Winston-Salem.