TAMPA, Fla. — For four decades a division of the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office has been offering mutual aid to the Hispanic community. 

The Hispanic Advisory Council serves as a liaison between Sheriff's deputies and Hillsborough Hispanics.

Council President Kathalin Carvalho talked with Spectrum Bay News 9 about the organization's impact on her life. 

After leaving her native country in 1999, the attorney has found multiple ways to reconnect with her Hispanic heritage and culture through mentorship, charity and dancing. 

"It's a simple way to give back," said Carvalho. "We were the first Hispanic council that was formed in the U.S. that helped the Sheriff's office with the Hispanic community."  

The council was founded 40 years ago to serve a growing Hispanic population. 

According to the 2020 census, there are now more than 400,000 Hispanics living in Hillsborough County. 

"The Sheriff is extremely committed to our community and he really wants to get the Hispanic community closer to the deputies." 

The Hispanic council offers resources for Latino students and their families; like food, housing, educational tools and scholarships. 

"I wish I had a council or any type of support when I went to college in the U.S."

Kathalin says participation in government has increased because of the council and the voice of the Hispanic/Latino community is heard. 

While they are celebrating their triumphs, there is still more work to do, according to Carvalho. 

"Any way to enhance and enrich the community is a win for everybody," she added. 

With the many different professionals on the council, there are several ways their members are ready and willing to help. 

A Sheriff's Hispanic Council Awards banquet is happening on October 14.