We want to provide Latinas a better future and we think that it starts with believing that it's possible. However, if we're not purposeful and don't take action, nothing will change.
Here's what the research tells us:
As a group, Latinas graduate from high school at lower rates than any major subgroup and are least likely of all women to complete a college degree, at just 19 percent compared to nearly 44 percent of white women. (Source: Fulfilling America's Future - Latinas in the US)
While there has been progress in the more recent years, a persistent gender-based wage gap continues to harm women, their families, and the economy—and is particularly damaging for Latinas. Education is the foundation upon which all other aspects of personal and economic well-being are built. People with more education generally have better jobs that pay more, and more often include benefits such as health insurance and retirement plans. (UnidosUS and the National Partnership for Women & Families)
The purpose of our mentorship program is to support and encourage these girls to graduate from high school, seek higher education and higher paying fields, fellowship, spiritual growth and become strong future leaders in our community.
Hispanic students are disproportionately low-income and the first in their families to seek higher educations, characteristics that make them more likely to drop out and in some cases not even pursue a college degree. (Sources: PBS.com, DallasNews.com)
We aim to help educate these young ladies and their parents to learn more about how they can successfully get to college, apply for federal aid and grants, and complete their degrees.
Much of the gap in educational achievement between Latinas and others can be traced to poverty and social disadvantage. (UnidosUS and the National Partnership for Women & Families)
Through this program and our funding partners, Latinas will have the opportunity to participate in events, an opportunity that they otherwise may not have or be able to afford even if given the opportunity to participate.