Passion 4 Latinas
- Beatrice Casiano
- Sep 4, 2018
- 2 min read
In 2017, I hosted a table for the On the Table initiative. My group consisted of 12 hispanic females in middle and high school and 3 other Hispanic adult women. Each person shared their perspectives and experiences living in Columbus. I had a slew of questions to ask the girls and wanted them to share their honest perceptions.
In the group I had girls from different ethnicities, ages and economic backgrounds. (Ex. military family, migrated to Columbus, born and raised in Columbus, upper middle class, low income and single/ two parent homes)
However, we all shared one thing in common.
We were all Hispanic women that wanted to make a difference in the world one day and to be accepted for who we were.
During the On the Table discussions the feelings and experiences each girl was going through was eye-opening for us all. The discussion revealed gaps in services and support provided to Latino youth and the need for ongoing growth and mentoring opportunities.
I was so inspired by these young women in the end. My wheels began turning, and that is when I decided to start up Passion 4 Latinas: a nonprofit organization that focuses on the growth and development of middle and high school Latina women. Since February 2018, we have been meeting twice a month to focus on our core values which emphasize growth in four areas:
Purpose
Preparation
People
Prosperity
These young ladies have been involved in a service project for Puerto Rico relief efforts, vision board exercises, workshops in finding their purpose, financial literacy, health and wellness and fun educational activities such as baking and cake design class and self-care workshops.
This is just the beginning. By the end of December, the goal of Passion 4 Latinas is to have 20 members enrolled. We are looking to expand further with college tours, museum trips and connecting with other young Latina women in similar programs out of state.
We are looking to make a huge impact in these ladies lives. We aim to encourage them and instill in them there is so much more life can offer, if they remain focused, continue their education, give back to their community and become entrepreneurs or leaders of tomorrow.
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