This paper describes some of the ways in which Hispanic elderly in East Harlem in New York City are advancing as a result of advocacy program involvement. Major problems and needs endemic to the Hispanic elderly in East Harlem are identified and some of the basic causes of these problems are discussed. The areas discussed include housing, health, finances, social attitudes, family structure, and the community. Some of the advances that have been made in the East Harlem community include the work being done by the East Harlem Coalition of Senior Centers and advocacy programs such as the Aguilar Senior Citizens Center. Another positive program is the Outreach and Linkage Program where written agreements between the Aguilar Center and 8 major service providers in the community have been worked out. As a result of this program, the Hospital for Joint Diseases has become more involved in Hispanic community matters and in the special needs of the Hispanic elderly whom they serve. Descriptions of other specific programs are included. (Author/AM)