College Access Coaching
Centro offers 1-on-1 consultations for youth, young adults, and their caregivers with trained bilingual staff who are knowledgeable about postsecondary options and the college application process. We specialize in working with undocumented or marginally documented youth who face additional barriers to pursuing a college degree due to their immigration status.
CENTRO YOUTH L.E.A.D. (Latinos Empowered to Advocate and Dream)
L.E.A.D. is a program for 14- to 24-year olds to develop leadership, public speaking, teamwork, and advocacy skills while exploring postsecondary and career options. Experiential learning opportunities include college tours, career panels, ACT prep sessions, FAFSA help, college application and financial aid assistance. Cultural identity exploration and mentorship are also important components of the program.
ESCALERA AT FULTON HIGH SCHOOL
Escalera is a postsecondary access program for juniors and seniors that meets twice a week after school at Fulton High School. This program focuses on Latino identity exploration as well as college and career options, and is based on a curriculum developed by our national partners, Unidos US. Experiential learning activities and individual case management are also components of this program.
LATINO COLLEGE & RESOURCE FAIR AND THE GOLDEN EAGLE SCHOLARSHIP
The Latino College & Resource Fair (LCRF) and the Golden Eagle Scholarship were originally spearheaded by advocates from Maryville College, but in 2020, Centro Hispano became the primary organizer of the event. This event brings local youth and their families together with institutions of higher education, local businesses, and community organizations. In a welcoming, bilingual environment, youth talk with current Latinx college students, parents can ask questions in Spanish, and marginally documented students can learn about their options for college and career.
The Golden Eagle Scholarship is funded by sponsorships and table fees from the LCRF, and has been given to a few outstanding local Latino students each year for the past seven years. In 2023, we hope to award more than $5,000 in scholarships to enable students to pursue their postsecondary goals!
