LEAD (Latinos for Educational Advocacy and Diversity)
LEAD (Latinos for Educational Advocacy and Diversity) is a non-profit organization that advocates for diversity and education in the community. The organization does this by abiding by 4 pillars: Educational Options, Civic Engagement, Financial Literacy, Latin American History and Culture
THE MISSION:
To advocate for educational equity, and access to effective education options for all students throughout the state of Connecticut.
After being founded a mere two years ago, LEAD has established itself within three different communities within the State of CT. Currently, the community centers can be found in Danbury, Norwich, and Bridgeport. Ultimately the goal of LEAD is to empower its community by providing the necessary resources for it to flourish.
One of the most important programs that LEAD provides to its community is ESL classes. The need for ESL in Danbury has grown significantly as the Latino population continues to grow. Currently, the center runs classes twice a day and is struggling to keep up with the demand.
Providing these classes is the essential building block to allowing Latinos to integrate within their community. With the ability to speak English Parents are able to be involved with their kids' schools and are able to have a voice. The success of the program would provide a positive trickle-down effect within the community.
THE 4 PILLARS:
EDUCATIONAL OPTIONS: LEAD’s first pillar is focused on expanding educational options for all children. The organization recognizes that access to high-quality education is a crucial factor in creating opportunities for success and reducing disparities. Through their advocacy work, LEAD seeks to create a more equitable education system by promoting policies that support school choice and other innovative approaches to education. For many black, brown and Latinos families this is especially important as they have historically faced significant barriers to educational opportunity. By advocating for policies that expand educational options, LEAD aims to empower families to make choices that best serve the needs of their children and give them the opportunity to succeed in life.
CIVIC ENGAGEMENT: LEAD provides civic education to parents and students in order to empower the community, as well as better their integral conditions and future. LEAD is part of the national organization CivxNow and will provide civic education classes to their community leaders. In addition, LEAD will conduct voter registration drives and get out the vote initiatives.
FINANCIAL LITERACY: LEAD understands the importance of a good financial literacy program for the effective development of personal goals and in order to empower and promote development of a community. LEAD will tailor their financial literacy programs to meet the needs of small business and individuals.
LATIN AMERICAN HISTORY AND CULTURE: LEAD is a leading authority in the teaching and dissemination of Latin American History and Culture. They aim to keep the traditions, heritage, and cultural richness of Latin America alive. LEAD’s Latin American History and Culture programs are available online and will also be taught through various workshops at their community center throughout the year. LEAD creates original content that explores the Latino contributions to the development of the United States.
$.50 per every bowl of ramen sold during the month of May will be donated directly towards advocating for diversity and education in the community. Additionally, Pho Vietnam will be donating $0.50 per bowl, Mariposa will be donating $0.50 per taco, Minas Carne will be donating $0.15 per plate, and Amigos Deli will be donating $0.25 per small & large plate.
To learn more, please visit, www.ctlead.org
*You are donating directly to LEAD. Eat Justice receives 0% of the proceeds.