Puerto Rican Heritage Network, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by former State Representative Daisy Morales,
is committed to promoting the advancement of Puerto Rican heritage through educational programs, projects, and events.
MISSION STATEMENT
To empower and unite Puerto Ricans through transformative leadership, bold advocacy,
and impactful initiatives that celebrate Puerto Rican heritage. We are committed to showcasing
the profound contributions of Puerto Ricans to Florida and the nation, inspiring future generations
to honor their legacy and drive meaningful change.
VISION STATEMENT
To become a leading voice for Puerto Rican heritage, fostering pride, unity, and progress
through education, community development, and advocacy in Florida and beyond.
Celebrating Puerto Rican Heritage:
A Worthwhile Investment
Supporting the Puerto Rican Heritage Network is more than a financial contribution—it’s a meaningful investment in preserving a legacy of resilience, creativity, and unity. By bolstering its initiatives, you help sustain Puerto Rican cultural and economic contributions in Florida while celebrating the richness of its traditions and community.
- Heritage & History: Florida’s Puerto Rican community honors its roots by preserving traditions while contributing to the state’s evolving narrative.
- Culture & Arts: From salsa and reggaeton beats to Puerto Rican-inspired fashion, the influence of Puerto Rican creativity is woven into Florida’s cultural fabric.
- Food & Music: Puerto Rican cuisine—featuring dishes like mofongo and arroz con gandules—and lively music have become staples in Florida’s culinary and entertainment scenes.
“Representative Daisy Morales Introduces House Resolution 8069, Establishing April 2nd as Puerto Rican Heritage Day in Florida”
Representative Daisy Morales, the highest-elected Puerto Rican woman in Florida, championed Puerto Rican culture and heritage by sponsoring House Resolution 8069, officially declaring April 2nd as Puerto Rican Heritage Day in Florida.
The resolution honors the profound contributions Puerto Ricans have made to Florida’s history and culture. It recognizes Juan Ponce de León, the first Governor of Puerto Rico, who led an expedition from Puerto Rico and discovered and named Florida on April 2, 1513. Additionally, it acknowledges Puerto Rican soldiers who served during the American Revolution, helping secure U.S. independence, and the heroic Borinqueneers, who received the Congressional Gold Medal and the Governor’s Veterans Service Award for their distinguished military service.
In support of this historic milestone, Representative Morales urged proclamations from Governor Ron DeSantis, Orange County Mayor Jerry Demings, and Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer to formally recognize April 2nd as Puerto Rican Heritage Day statewide.
“April 2, 2022, marks the 509th anniversary of Florida’s founding by Puerto Rican ancestors and the beginning of their invaluable contributions to the state,” said Representative Morales.
House Resolution 8069 also acknowledges the 5.8 million residents of Puerto Rico and the 1.2 million Puerto Ricans residing in Florida, highlighting the continued influence and legacy of the Puerto Rican community.
Through her bold leadership and unwavering advocacy, Representative Daisy Morales has established an enduring legacy, celebrating the rich history and vibrant culture of Puerto Ricans in Florida.
Our Work
At the Puerto Rican Heritage Network (PRHN), we are dedicated to empowering and advancing the Puerto Rican community while fostering resilience, growth, and unity within our communities. Our work spans a wide range of critical areas, including:
- Education: Promoting access to quality education and lifelong learning opportunities.
- Health: Supporting initiatives that improve health outcomes and wellness.
- Immigration: Assisting with immigration-related challenges and advocacy.
- Housing: Addressing affordable housing and homelessness issues.
- Culture & Arts: Celebrating and preserving Puerto Rican heritage and artistic expression.
- Hunger Relief: Combating food insecurity within Puerto Rican communities.
- Civic Engagement: Encouraging active participation in civic and democratic processes.
- Economic Empowerment: Creating pathways for economic growth and self-sufficiency.
- Environmental Justice: Advocating for sustainable and equitable environmental practices.
- Nonprofit Development: Strengthening the impact and capacity of nonprofit organizations.
- Internship Programs: Providing hands-on training and experience in film production and news media to inspire the next generation of Puerto Rican leaders.
Through these initiatives, PRHN champions progress, breaks down systemic barriers, and creates opportunities for Puerto Ricans to thrive. Our efforts empower individuals to fully participate in shaping their communities and securing a brighter, more equitable future.
PRHN Nonprofits Network
The Puerto Rican Heritage Network (PRHN) collaborates with a diverse network of nonprofits, which serves as the foundation for building strong communities and creating lasting impacts in the lives of Puerto Ricans.
Our Members and Benefits
PRHN supports its nonprofit members by offering a range of valuable services, including:
- Technical Assistance: Providing expert guidance to strengthen organizational capacity.
- Fundraising Workshops: Equipping members with strategies to secure resources and expand their impact.
- Grant Opportunities: Offering operating support and funding to sustain and grow initiatives.
- Nonprofit Organizational Development: Assisting nonprofits in enhancing their operational efficiency and effectiveness.
Through this collaborative network, PRHN empowers nonprofit organizations to drive meaningful change and uplift Puerto Rican communities.
PRHN Internship Program
Earn While You Learn: Building Skills in Acting, Film Production, and News Media Production
The Puerto Rican Heritage Network (PRHN) is proud to offer a dynamic and immersive internship program designed to empower aspiring professionals with hands-on experience in the entertainment and media industries. This program combines education, mentorship, and real-world practice to help participants build meaningful careers while celebrating and promoting Puerto Rican heritage.
Become A Sponsor
Whether you are a large corporation or a small local business, our events provide a powerful platform to elevate your brand and build impactful partnerships. With over 1.5 million Puerto Ricans in Florida—one of the state’s largest Latino communities—our iconic celebrations, hosted by the Puerto Rican Heritage Network, attract widespread attention and engagement.
Becoming a major sponsor strengthens your corporate presence, aligning your brand with a dynamic and culturally rich community. It’s a unique opportunity to showcase your commitment to diversity, culture, and community impact. As a sponsor, you’ll benefit from unparalleled visibility, meaningful connections, and the chance to leave a lasting impression on one of Florida’s most celebrated cultural audiences.
Together, let’s create a powerful partnership that amplifies your brand and fosters an enduring legacy of support for this vibrant community.
PRHN Hunger Relief
Daisy Morales and the Puerto Rican Heritage Network (PRHN) are dedicated to addressing food insecurity by consistently providing emergency hunger relief in underserved communities, with a focus on supporting Puerto Ricans and Hispanics. PRHN collaborates closely with hunger relief advocates, community organizations, and elected leaders to ensure that vital resources reach those in need.
If you’re interested in hosting a hunger relief event, volunteering, or becoming a sponsor, we invite you to join us in making a difference. Contact us at puertoricanheritagenetwork@gmail.com for more information.
Policy and Advocacy
The Puerto Rican Heritage Network (PRHN) has spearheaded numerous advocacy campaigns to expand opportunities for Puerto Ricans in Florida and across the United States. These initiatives are designed to amplify the voices of Puerto Rican communities, driving meaningful change at the municipal, state, and federal levels. Through strategic collaboration and focused advocacy, PRHN works to address key issues, influence policy, and empower Puerto Ricans to shape a brighter future for their communities.
Scholarships
Each year, the Puerto Rican Heritage Network (PRHN) proudly awards 20 scholarships to outstanding students of Puerto Rican descent who are making a meaningful impact in their communities.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of companies, organizations, and individuals who invest in PRHN’s mission and make direct donations, PRHN is on track to award over thousands in scholarships to deserving Puerto Rican students committed to pursuing higher education.
To support PRHN’s initiatives, including the scholarship program, visit PuertoRicanHeritageNetwork.org and donate today.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for a PRHN scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Puerto Rican Descent: Applicants must identify as Puerto Rican.
- Academic Achievement: A minimum GPA of 3.0 (or equivalent high school grade).
- Age and Education Level: High school seniors or college students (freshmen through juniors) aged 17-25.
- Enrollment: Must be enrolled in an accredited two- or four-year college or university.
- Community Service: Demonstrated volunteer work or community involvement.
- Interview: Participation in an interview with a member(s) of the scholarship selection committee.
Note: Previous scholarship winners are eligible to reapply if they meet the criteria above.
Application Process
Application Deadline: August 15, 2025
To apply, candidates must:
- Complete the Online Application: Access the application at PuertoRicanHeritageNetwork.org.
- Submit Academic Transcripts: Upload transcripts directly to the application or have them uploaded by school administrators.
- Provide Required Documents:
- A completed application form.
- An essay (originally written; AI-generated essays are prohibited).
- A written biography.
- Two letters of recommendation, including one from a site where the applicant performed volunteer work.
- Official academic transcripts.
- A professional headshot photo.
Important: All materials must be received by August 15, 2025. Late submissions will result in disqualification.
Letters of Recommendation
Letters should be written by teachers, professors, counselors, mentors, clergy, or community leaders. Recommendations must address the applicant’s community service, the relationship’s duration, and specific contributions made to the community.
For additional information or questions, email PuertoRicanHeritageNetwork.org.
Good luck, and we look forward to celebrating your achievements at the PRHN Annual Corporate Scholarships Gala!
PRHN Events
Every year, the Puerto Rican Heritage Network (PRHN) proudly hosts and participates in a series of public events leading up to the grand celebration of the National Puerto Rican Flag Day Parade, held annually on the second Sunday of December.
This cherished tradition honors the rich history and cultural significance of the Puerto Rican flag, serving as a symbol of unity, resilience, and pride for Puerto Ricans worldwide. Through our events and programs, PRHN celebrates and promotes Puerto Rican art, culture, and education, fostering a deeper appreciation for our heritage both in Puerto Rico and across the United States mainland.
The National Puerto Rican Flag Day Parade is more than a celebration—it’s a testament to our vibrant history, a platform to spotlight the contributions of Puerto Ricans, and an opportunity to inspire future generations to carry forward our legacy.
