Programs and Services
Some of the programs we currently offer to meet our mission include an After School Program to support young Latino/a students with language acquisition and homework help. We operate an ongoing series of Women's Health Workshops, and Spanish language courses designed for local community members and area businesses. All our programs are offered in Spanish and English (as appropriate) and are delivered in a culturally sensitive manner. We also serve as a resource center, helping people find and connect with social services, health care, health insurance, jobs, and housing.
After School Program
Our After School Program provides eight hours a week of homework help, literacy activities, art projects and games to local Latino students. The After School Program was initiated at the request of parents and designed for students learning a second language. It provides a safe supportive environment for children to learn and practice English while using teaching methods that involve movement, games, creativity, art, performance, and written practice to engage the learner.
The program makes full use of volunteers. From local business owners, farmers, musicians and artists to summer residents, college students, and older Latino/a students, our program is enriched through the participation of the larger community. Volunteers help the children learn to interact with a wide variety of people while exposing them to a new skill, career, or way of life and giving them the opportunity to build friendships. Volunteers enrich our program and the children's lives.
By providing a fun and educational environment where children are supported in their learning and given space and opportunity to grow as leaders and learners in their community, we hope to foster a sense of accomplishment that will translate itself into academic confidence. The program runs four afternoons a week with Kindergarten through sixth grade students on Mondays and Wednesdays, and seventh through twelfth grade students on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
Women's Health Workshops
Our women's health workshops target migrant and immigrant Latinas in Downeast Maine. These workshops cover a range of topics from preconception care, prenatal care, the importance of preventive screenings, HIV/AIDS, the effects of stress and depression, and basic first aid skills. The workshop participants select the topics to focus on. The information is delivered in a culturally appropriate manner, and in the native language of the participants. We recognize and have spoken with many women about the barriers they encounter when trying to receive information from their doctors who only speak English. Language and cultural barriers prevent many women from asking questions about prenatal care, the growth of their child, or even seeking prenatal care within the first trimester. These barriers and lack of information leave these mothers and children at a disadvantage in acquiring the care they need.
Spanish Classes
We offer Spanish Classes to area businesses and individuals. In addition to providing Spanish Language skills, the classes include cultural information and activities. The classes increase cross-cultural communication and understanding in the community while providing an educational opportunity. The ten-week courses can be customized to meet the language needs of a particular business, group or organization. Contact us for more information.
