(281) 250-4511  | racuyfo@gmail.com   

Roots Culture and Education of the United States, known by its acronym 'Racuyfo US,' was established in the year 2000 by Luz Marleny Mouton, driven by her altruistic essence, love for her roots, and a desire to work towards building a compassionate culture within the Houston community and internationally. Since then, the Foundation has been working with and for the Houston community on projects related to preventive health education through workshops, events, and conferences. It fosters support for programs targeting underprivileged communities, from adults to children, while promoting cultural diversity as a means to strengthen identity. In 2012, the Foundation became a promoter of the National Campaign 'The Heart Truth,' contributing to social well-being in the realm of "Health Culture Education" through the annual 'Red Dress Day' conference, raising awareness and educating about the prevention and risk factors of heart disease. This initiative has impacted more than 5,000 women, their families, and their communities, inspiring a serious commitment to health. The programs have brought together both natives and foreigners with a shared interest, generating not only financial support but also active participation in achieving the established goals. Through these initiatives, the Foundation has presented various groups that reflect the richness of Latin American culture, including musical ensembles like Quinteto Pacífico and Ancestros with Esteban Copete, maestros Ali Cuama and Gualajo, and the group Naidy with Maky López. Additionally, visual artists such as Adriana Patricia Vélez, sculptors Augusto Rivera and Gabriel Tamayo, among others, have been featured. The biannual program 'Con Amor y Regocijo' has benefitted countless senior adults and residents of different rehabilitation homes. Events like 'Alegría Navideña' (Christmas Joy), which has been running for over 10 years, continue to bring joy to thousands of children and their families. Another event, the 'Día de la Mujer' (Women's Day), is organized as a lunch and motivational conference, involving the participation of numerous women. The annual campaign 'Vestir al Desnudo' (Dressing the Naked), for over 20 years, has sent hundreds of tons of clothes and toys to Colombia and Venezuela, benefiting thousands of underprivileged families. The Racuyfo Foundation and its members have received multiple honors and recognitions, including an honorable mention from the University of the Pacific for leadership in promoting culture, folklore, and preserving Afro-descendant roots. The Foundation also received a certificate of recognition from Prairie View A&M University for its socio-cultural contributions through workshops on Afro-Colombian dances and music. Furthermore, the University of Santiago de Cali recognized the Foundation for its significant role as an ambassador for the 'Dia del Vestido Rojo' event in Cali, Valle, Colombia. Other accolades include the '100 Hispanic Women in Leadership' award, 'Woman of the Year' by Sucesos Magazine, recognition from the Colombian Air Force for its altruistic work for underprivileged children, an honorary award at the Casa de Nariño, and honors from President Juan Manuel Santos and the Fusionarte Organization for leaving a positive impact abroad. Additionally, the Foundation received a Certificate of Recognition from the United States Congress and a proclamation declaring 'Luz Mouton Day' from the City of Houston, among other honorary mentions. Throughout these years, individuals with a strong interest in helping have united to achieve this mission, firmly believing that service is one of the necessary pillars to improve our society. Today, just as in the past, the Racuyfo Foundation continues its mission and vision to give their best and learn from this experience to continuously improve for the benefit of the community.