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Langley Park, Md. - In 2009, low-income residents and immigrants in Prince George's County can turn to CASA de Maryland, a pro immigrant organization who is expanding its operations to Langley Park.

The headquarters for CASA de Maryland is currently operating out of the basement of a church in Takoma Park. The organization has grown considerably since it was founded in 1985 and now works with about 20,000 low income immigrants every year. A new multicultural center will serve people of all backgrounds and offer a number of programs, like English classes and legal services. It was made possible through public and private donations, which some people strongly oppose since CASA does not ask to prove citizenship.

After sitting vacant for 10 years, a mansion in Langley Park will be the new headquarters for CASA. "It will be a place where there's a spirit of brotherhood and sisterhood and where people realize that if we come together we can make this community great, not only Prince George's County but the entire region," said Jack Johnson, Prince George's County executive.

Four years and $33 million later, the project is still shy of reaching the total amount to complete the renovations, but construction is expected to begin after local leaders broke ground at the site. "This multicultural center will be a hub for a very vibrant community, a community that wants to be a part of the whole," said Congresswoman Donna Edwards.

But some folks like Pree Glenn-Graves with "Help Save Maryland" fear the community may include illegal immigrants, since CASA doesn't ask for paperwork proving someone is a U.S. Citizen. "We have over a $400 million deficit in Maryland, but yet you're taking our money and continuing to give it to organizations, special interest groups, that are aiding and abetting illegal aliens in our country," said Glenn-Graves.

CASA's executive director Gustavo Torres says the organization won't deny services based on immigration status. "We are very similar to the Red Cross, to the Catholic charities. We provide services to people in need, so we don't ask for documentation because we are not eyes. We are not immigration services. We are here to provide social services to our community," said Torres.

The largely Hispanic population of Langley Park, appreciates what the new center will offer. "It's great support for the Latin community because anything need for help will be right here in Hyattsville and it's just very close to their community, so they're very excited about the support CASA will give," said one resident.

The new headquarters are located at the center of a 24 acre apartment complex with low-income units. It was owned by the apartment's management company, who ended up giving the building to CASA for free.

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