In 2015, Ciudad Nueva’s Catalyst program for high school students was created in response to seeing students from Launch Pad approaching high school and grappling with the thought of what to do after high school graduation. High school students at Ciudad Nueva who participate in the program receive skills training, learn about career options from guest speakers and set goals with an action plan to achieve them. Students receive a small stipend for participating in the program and are paid based on if they arrive on time, dress professionally, and participate in the classes. The goal of the … [Read more...]
Having a Mentor Makes a Difference
The impact that we can have on one another’s lives was once described to me like ripples on the surface of water when a pebble is dropped in. The ripples keep on moving outward, far beyond the point of initial impact. I have always loved that image — that our actions and relationships keep rippling out beyond what we see. Most of what we do at Ciudad Nueva is relationship-driven, and nothing is more essentially relational than the mentoring groups in our youth programs. From the youngest students all the way up through high school, we rely on our mentors to make connections and … [Read more...]
Suddenly the World Got Bigger
High school graduation and a vision for their lives beyond opens up a world of possibility to high school students at Ciudad Nueva "My favorite part about the Catalyst trip was seeing all of my college options. I didn't really know if I would be able to go to college, but going on this trip I've seen that it will be a hard journey, but I know it's doable. I now know that college is an option for me!" says Carolina Enriquez. One of the more dramatic impacts we have seen at Ciudad Nueva is how our students grow through our programs and how those programs help them stay on the path toward … [Read more...]
School Is Back in Session!
Growing up, I remember back-to-school season being full of emotions: excitement, dread, curiosity. Would this year be better than last year? Would I like my teachers? I can’t wait to see my friends! At Ciudad Nueva, back-to-school season is all about excitement. There is a flurry of activity from visiting families, schools, and volunteers. Phones are ringing, emails are flying. Students are ready to get back in the routine — and see all the friends and leaders they missed over the summer! It all starts with planning Summer is a change of pace at Ciudad Nueva. We head off in a lot of … [Read more...]
