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IMPACTO (Imagining Tomorrow
Pico Aliso Community Teen Outreach) is an after school program that
provides academic support and enrichment and recreational activities
to the youth of Boyle Heights. This neighborhood is characterized by
extreme over-crowding and poverty; as many as eight gangs claim territory
in an area consisting of one square mile. High rates of violence, teen
pregnancy, child abuse and truancy persist. One of several programs
of Proyecto Pastoral at Dolores Mission, IMPACTO seeks to build and
enrich the education of youth living in and around the Pico-Aliso Housing
Development in Boyle Heights by creating and developing a culture of
motivation, inspiration, and leadership. Through this culture, youth
are able to develop the skills necessary to reach high academic achievement,
strong social and emotional growth, and successful lives centered around
the values and principles that promote a democratic society.
IMPACTO
is divided into two components–Elementary and College
Preparatory. Separate curriculum is offered to accommodate the various
age groups. Each component serves the individual academic needs of
youth by providing homework assistance and tutoring. IMPACTO partners
with local school administrators and teachers to assure that the
youth are receiving the adequate academic assistance needed. Academics
are supplemented by youth book clubs, math clubs, fine arts, leadership
workshops and recreational activities designed to motivate youth
in the direction of higher learning. IMPACTO staff members are sensitive
to the social challenges that face the youth in this community and
offer extended support to the youth and their families. Volunteers
from local colleges and universities are overseen by component managers
as they assist the youth with their academics and serve as positive
role models to the youth.
Along with being a lifelong resident of
the Dolores Mission community, Velvet Holguin began working with IMPACTO
in the mid-1990s. A full time student and mother, Velvet has been one
of the most dedicated staff of IMPACTO. The girl who was once timid
and full of questions herself has developed into a woman who has proved
herself a leader. Velvet has worked with the elementary component in
all aspects and has helped formulate, implement and coordinate the
very successful Book Club. Velvet is a dynamic individual who whole-heartedly
cares about the community that she lives and works in. She understands
the importance of giving the youth in this community a safe and promising
environment in which they can feel at home and develop a strong sense
of self. Parents trust that Velvet will take care of their children
and teach them well. This trust enables parents to turn to Velvet
for advice and assistance in all matters relating to their children
and their families’ well being. Velvet is an example of a neighborhood
member who has benefited from the programs of Proyecto Pastoral and
is now giving back to the community that she cares so much about. |
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©2005
Carrie Estelle Doheny Foundation |
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