Our History

MAUC was incorporated in 1967 as a means to diligently organize for economic and political empowerment of the Mexican American population in San Antonio. MAUC’s purpose at that time was ‘to provide gratuitously, counseling and educational programs to Mexican American volunteer groups and leaders, interested in the social, economic and educational problems of Mexican Americans throughout the State of Texas.’ Its founding board of directors included, Dr. Charles Cottrell (St. Mary’s University), Dr. Richard Caldwell (Kelly AFB), Judge Albert A. Peña, Jr. (Bexar County Commissioner), and community activists Mario Compeán, William C. Velásquez, and Juán J. Patlán.

MAUC, the first local affiliate of UnidosUS (formerlyNCLR), soon established itself as a leader in advocating community problems. Like a finely woven tapestry or a detailed piece of art with rich and vibrant colors and textures, MAUC has experienced the gamut in issues affecting our constituencies.

At the crux of MAUC’s inception was the right to speak Spanish on school grounds at a local school district. Another was the inclusion of courses portraying the positive contributions made to society by Mexican Americans – something that was not taught in schools at the time. Voter education and registration was another effort – especially dear to the heart of then MAUC Executive Director Willie Velásquez. His work at MAUC laid the groundwork for his later endeavor, the Southwest Voter Education and Registration Project (SVREP).

MAUC continues to seek ways to build the organization’s effectiveness and sustainability in the delivery of social services in the area of education, health, family strengthening and community economic development to all areas of the City and County. The process of assisting an individual or group to identify and address issues and gain insights, knowledge and experience needed to solve problems and implement change.

If you are interested in supporting MAUC’s efforts, either through funding, in-kind services, or volunteer opportunities, please contact us at 210.978.0500 or e-mail info@mauc.

Our Mission

Our Vision

The Mexican American Unity Council, Inc. (MAUC) provides guidance, services in areas of education, housing, community and economic development.

MAUC will be a beacon of hope recognized for helping people improve their lives and their community.

Our Community

Dedicated to the rebirth of our inner city neighborhoods...

MAUC resides in a historical building constructed in 1911. As the former home of David Crockett Elementary School, it was vacated in 1967 and remained unoccupied and subject to vandalism until 1975. The structure faced demolition but the community protested that as a “beacon of hope,” as it was called in its heyday, they could not allow the building to face the wrecking ball. The City then called for bids to purchase and restore the stoic edifice and MAUC was selected through a competitive process to take charge in restoring the structure. The MAUC Center was dedicated in ceremonial fashion on October 29, 1977.

MAUC Center is currently home to community-based organizations such as ED Plus, Healthy Futures of Texas, United Counseling Center, Our Casas, Inc., SEIU of Texas, Leticia Luna Attorney, Cavazos & Galindo, AAMA, PeopleFund, San Antonio Counseling and Behavioral Center, G-TEK Industries, American Gateways, Greater SA After School All-Stars, AA New Beginnings, Executive Profile, MEX US Law Firm, and WeatherTek General Contractors.