Hispanic Advisory Council

The Council serves as a liaison between the Hispanic community and the Sheriff's office.  The Council achieves this through community outreach initiatives and scholarships to deserving young persons. 

The Sheriff’s Hispanic Advisory Council originated in 1982 by then Sheriff Walter Heinrich and Ray E. Fernandez. It was noted at that time in history,  that the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office was the only law enforcement agency in the country with a Hispanic Advisory Council.  The Council works to serve both the community and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office through a variety of services. Council members, all of whom are citizen volunteers, strive to engage in activities that promote a better understanding and trust between the two. 

The Sheriff's Hispanic Advisory Council was extremely busy in 2024.

• 70+ bags of toiletries, household items and non perishable food items to senior residents at the St. Clemente Villas in Plant City.
• 180 computers were donated to deserving students at Shields Middle School, Alonso High School and Strawberry Crest High School to assist in their scholastic success.
• 120 backpacks were donated to children during the Dover Boys and Girls Club Back to School Festival.
• 5 Scholarships were provided to deserving young persons, some of whom face great challenges, through the USF Latino Scholarship Program and HCC Foundation. 
• Council members volunteered in over 40 community events throughout Hillsborough County.
• 70 Thanksgiving meals bags were provided to deserving families from the Wimauma area.
• In December, 50 bikes and helmets were provided for Christmas to children at the Hispanic Services Council.  
• The Council had it's third "Hispanic Stories & Voices" Literacy Project distributing 250 books to students at Crestwood Elementary School.
• Two technical scholarships were provided at Aguilas Institute for students studying in the fields of Medical Assistant and Pharmacy Technician.

Safety First, Friends Forever is a heartwarming bilingual children’s story about three best friends—Sissy, Ladu, and Elias—who embark on an adventure in the park while chasing a playful dog named Memo. In their excitement, they get lost and find themselves in a scary situation. As they could not find their way out, the three friends started to worry. But just when things seemed darker, they met three kind law enforcement deputies. With their calming and reassuring presence, the deputies helped the children stay safe and guided them back to their parents.Through this adventure, the friends learned important lessons: always listen to their parents, stay together, and trust the law enforcement deputies who were there to protect and watch over them.The story emphasizes the importance of safety, friendship, and the role of the community in keeping everyone safe.

For inquiries and book donations, please send an email to shachispaniccouncil@gmail.com. 100% of funds support the Sheriff's Hispanic Advisory Council and the community they serve in partnership with the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office.