The article provides a basis from which to examine the complexity of cultural competence, identifies various barrier organizations, includes a review of the literature, and presents a series of recommendations organizations should address in order to achieve success with Latinos. The concept of cultural competence refers to a set of congruent behaviors, attitudes and policies that come together in a system, agency, or intervention to work effectively in multicultural situations. Perspectives on how the concept has been operationalized include those from the human service field and from the ATOD field. Demographic trends projected for the 21st century reflect both a graying and coloring of the United States. Latinos will continue to represent a significant portion of the country, particularly in urban areas. ATOD organizations must be prepared for continual transformation to meet the needs of Latinos and other communities-of-color. Notes, references