APRCC

Celebrating Puerto Rican culture in the Auroraland area

History & Legacy

Founded in 1967

The Aurora Puerto Rican Cultural Council began in 1967 as the United Puerto Rican Parade Committee, founded by Doroteo Arroyo and Juan M. Ruberte.

What started as a grassroots effort to celebrate Puerto Rican heritage quickly grew into a civic and cultural anchor for Aurora’s Puerto Rican community.

From organizing parades and mobilizing voters to advocating for representation and participating in official civic ceremonies, the organization laid the foundation for generations of leadership and increased visibility for Puerto Ricans in Aurora.

Investing in the Next Generation

In 1997, the Doroteo Arroyo & Juan M. Ruberte Scholarship was established to support local students pursuing higher education.

In 1998, the organization formally received 501(c)(3) nonprofit status and adopted the name Aurora Puerto Rican Cultural Council.

Through scholarships, cultural programming, and community engagement, APRCC expanded its impact beyond celebration into long-term community investment in Aurora’s Puerto Rican community.

Strength Through Change

Over the decades, APRCC has navigated leadership transitions, economic challenges, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Under dedicated board leadership across generations, the organization:

  • Strengthened nonprofit governance and organizational compliance
  • Revitalized the annual festival
  • Expanded community partnerships
  • Sustained scholarship investment
  • Celebrated its 50th anniversary milestone

Even during difficult seasons, the mission remained steady: preserve culture, support youth, and serve the community.

A Legacy That Continues

Today, the Aurora Puerto Rican Cultural Council continues to preserve and celebrate Puerto Rican heritage through:

  • The Aurora Puerto Rican Heritage Festival
  • APRCC Educational Award Pageant
  • The Doroteo Arroyo & Juan Ruberte Scholarship
  • Cultural and community service initiatives

Nearly six decades later, APRCC remains committed to honoring its founders while building a strong future for Aurora’s Puerto Rican community.