building community and Empowering the next generation of Latinx leaders
the 5 c's of EMPOWER Youth Latinx
1
cultivate Career & Education Pathways
Making education meaningful involves cultivating strong, trustworthy relationships with each student, fostering a sense of support, belonging, and care. Education serves a twofold purpose—beyond personal growth, it extends to benefiting family, peers, and the broader community. Supporting young people in identifying their skills, passions, and talents requires a shared focus where peers and mentors uplift one another’s strengths while pushing each other to fulfill their potential. Additionally, mentorship programs play a crucial role in connecting youth with professionals across various fields by actively building partnerships with Latinx professionals and facilitating career exploration through internships, workshops, and skill-building initiatives.
create Strong Community
2
Connecting Latinx youth and older generations through leadership circles fosters the sharing and passing down of knowledge, experiences, and cultural identity. Building peer-led spaces allows youth to uplift one another through shared learning, emotional support, and collective problem-solving, fostering mutual support and strong bonds of friendship. Additionally, nurturing social cohesion within the Latinx community and strengthening relationships between Latinx populations and other cultural groups through gatherings creates a sense of warmth, belonging, and inclusion while reducing social isolation among youth and immigrant populations.
3
celebrate Culture & Identity
Sharing the stories of Latinx leaders and changemakers inspires pride, resilience, and a sense of belonging, drawing on the wisdom of elders to pass down knowledge to younger generations. Celebrating bilingualism and language preservation through education and community programs, along with hosting cultural events that highlight Latinx traditions and creativity, strengthens cultural identity.
champion Leadership & Community
4
Inspiring youth with a vision for the present and future emphasizes their immense potential as agents of change, connecting their actions to long-term success through mentorship, goal-setting, and real-life examples. Encouraging youth to share knowledge and experiences fosters leadership development and creates a continuous cycle of growth. Providing platforms for advocacy and community-driven initiatives in partnership with local organizations empowers youth to advocate for their education, future, and community well-being.
5
commit to Equity & Opportunity
Breaking down barriers to success by implementing strategic plans in public schools across Washington and Multnomah County ensures Latinx youth have equitable access to opportunities. Engaging youth in decision-making at every level, including parents and families in consultative processes through home visits and community gatherings, strengthens their role in shaping their future. Finally, ensuring access to resources, transportation, and inclusive spaces allows all youth to participate fully, regardless of background or circumstance.
Join the movement
