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Mentoring
VLC supports the development of young women by pairing 30 girls ages 10 to 14 with Latina women mentors. Mentees and mentors have contact weekly to connect and build a supportive relationship; they also stay in touch via email and phone. Matches may spend time at local parks and cultural festivals, visit a college, or simply “hang out.” Through this mentoring relationship, the mentor becomes a positive role model and a part of the girls’ support structure.
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Girls Club
VLC’s group programming focused on cultural enrichment, understanding, and identity supports girls to stay in school, become leaders, and otherwise make healthy, responsible choices that reflect well-developed self-esteem. As they begin to view their cultural background as a strength, VLC girls develop the self-awareness and determination necessary to try new things, set goals, and step into leadership roles. New to the program this year are educational sessions aimed at addressing the rising incidence of STDs and teen pregnancy in the community.
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Saturday Arts
Each Saturday, mentees participate in two-hour, arts and cultural exploration clubs. The programming has four components: 1. literature and film, 2. music production, 3. visual arts and dance, and 4. video production. In each of the components, girls are encouraged and expected to assume leadership roles in leading discussions, project management, or program planning. They record reflections and experiences with the program, their mentor, and their life in general through weekly journal entries.
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