Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Empowering Latinx Dreams Through Education and Opportunity
Hispanic Heritage Month is a time to honor the vibrant culture, history, and contributions of the Hispanic and Latinx community in the U.S. But it is also a time to look ahead—toward a future where every Latinx student has the opportunity to achieve their dreams. At the Latino Education Advancement Foundation (LEAF), we believe in the limitless potential of every young person and the power of education to transform lives, families, and entire communities.
Our mission is not just to close the education gap—it’s to unlock the boundless possibilities within each student, providing them the tools and support to build the future they envision. With passion and purpose, we stand alongside these students as they journey toward higher education, career success, and, ultimately, a brighter tomorrow.
Shaping the Future of the Latinx Community
The challenges faced by Latinx students are real. In 2021-2022, only 27% of Latinx adults (18 and older) had earned an associate’s degree or higher, compared to 44% of all adults in the U.S.. Despite these statistics, Latinx students are resilient. They are overcoming obstacles every day and demonstrating an unwavering commitment to their education and future. At LEAF, we see this strength firsthand, and we are here to ensure that every barrier they face can be overcome with the right support.
LEAF’s Impact: Fueling Dreams, Igniting Futures
Since 2019, LEAF has been a beacon of hope for more than 800 students and their families in East San José, providing life-changing resources and guidance. Our programs—like the Center for College Success, Family Advocacy, and Career Exploration & Discovery—don’t just support students academically; they help them discover their passions, build confidence, and chase their dreams with purpose.
Through our College Success Program, we have witnessed incredible transformations. Students who once doubted their ability to attend college are now thriving in higher education. In fact, 48% of our scholars attend four-year universities, while 51% are achieving their goals at community colleges. These students aren’t just statistics—they are the future leaders, innovators, and changemakers of tomorrow.
And the impact doesn’t stop there. Our Career Exploration & Discovery Program connects students with Latinx career mentors, inspiring them to dream bigger and aim higher. With guidance from these mentors, students are stepping confidently into careers they once thought were beyond their reach. We believe that every student, regardless of their background, deserves the opportunity to turn their dreams into reality.
Join Us in Empowering the Next Generation
As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we are reminded that every Latinx student has the power to change the world—and that power begins with education. Together, we can ensure that no dream goes unfulfilled, and that every student who dares to dream can achieve greatness.
Here’s how you can be a part of this incredible movement:
Volunteer: Whether as a career mentor, resume reviewer, or workshop panelist, your expertise can inspire and guide students toward their future success.
Sponsor a Workshop or Event: Share your passion by sponsoring a student or family workshop, or support our annual luncheon, where we celebrate the achievements of our scholars.
Host a LEAF Intern: Give a student the hands-on experience they need to thrive by offering internships or job opportunities.
The future is in our hands. When we invest in education, we are not just helping individual students—we are building a legacy of empowerment, growth, and success for the entire Latinx community. Let’s work together to create a world where every Latinx student has the opportunity to soar, breaking barriers and reaching heights they never thought possible.
Join us in this journey of hope, empowerment, and transformation. Visit www.leafca.org to learn more about how you can make a lasting impact, and reach out to info@leafca.org to support.
