Karina grew up in the Rio Grande neighborhood and has been a part of the Ciudad Nueva youth programs since she was in third grade. She was referred by her school counselor, and soon after she got connected, her brother and older sister joined as well. “I loved being there with the mentors,” says Karina. “The people who help are really welcoming, opening their lives and helping me and my family.” A step of leadership begins a journey to college “When I was a freshman, they asked me if I wanted to volunteer in the middle school program,” says Karina. “I would help them do the activities and … [Read more...]