EDUCATION IS AT THE HEART OF EVERYTHING WE DO. EMPOWERING YOUTH IS THE KEY TO BREAKING THE CYCLE OF POVERTY IN SANTA CRUZ.

EARLY EDUCATION

Our Model Classroom Program gives children in Santa Cruz access to a positive first learning experience. We work within local public schools, investing in changes to improve the quality of public education over the long-term. Our program currently reaches over 276 children in preschool through 3rd grade. It includes a lending library and afternoon reading program that build literacy skills and inspire a love of reading.

Amigos provides daily nutritional snacks to over 450 preschool and primary school students, encouraging consistent school attendance and ensuring that children have the nutrition they need to learn and grow. We provide support for school supplies and materials to over 1700 primary and middle school students, to help both teachers and students access the resources they need to learn.

SCHOLARSHIPS AND YOUTH LEADERSHIP

Amigos provides high school and university scholarship support for students to continue their education beyond the 9th grade provided by local schools. We provide competitive scholarships to support students with school related expenses and require rigorous commitment to high standards for participation in our program. Scholarship students also give back to their community by participating in our youth leadership conferences and community projects on topics such as the environment, cultural identity and gender equality.

Amigos helps a growing number of students achieve their once unattainable dream of attending high school and university.

YOUTH CORPS

Higher education is now a reality for many young people in Santa Cruz, yet many graduates still struggle to find meaningful employment. The Santa Cruz Youth Corps addresses this challenge by providing graduates with professional skill development, on-the-job experience, and community service opportunities. This year-long program places interns for 20 hours a week with a range of professional employers around Lake Atitlán. Upon completion, participants are equipped with greater experience, confidence, and skills to find success in the workplace.

These talented young men and women, the future leaders of their community, embody the positive change happening in Santa Cruz.

SEX EDUCATION PROGRAMS

Early pregnancies and forced unions represent a significant barrier to young people’s education and economic opportunities in Santa Cruz, particularly for young women.  We provide critical sexual and reproductive health information to 4th-9th grade students and train their teachers, empowering young cruceños and cruceñas to make educated decisions about their bodies and their families.

Teen pregnancies are decreasing in Santa Cruz and more young women are going on to higher education, breaking traditional gender roles, and expanding opportunities for young women.

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