In 1988 a group of individuals who were concerned about the socio-economic conditions of Puerto Rico responded to community initiatives to develop healthier lifestyles for populations seeking to make improvements. Through educational programs with an emphasis on community autonomy, opportunities developed to erase economic disadvantages; the objective to create a higher quality of life throughout Puerto Rico was set in motion. Over time, the initiatives have evolved into the non-profit organization known today as the Puerto Rico Center for Social Concerns (PRCSC).

The PRCSC was created by group committed to promoting social action, many of whom were University of Notre Dame alumni. The program places 4-8 recent graduates who work with community members and local volunteers in Puerto Rican communtites for one or two years of service. Currently the PRCSC has alliances with the Asociacion Pro Juventud, Hogar Padre Vernard, and Centro ALESPI located respectively in Cucharillas and Puente Blanco in Barrio Palmas of Cataño, La Perla in San Juan, and the Barrio Barro in Orocovis.