WHY WE DO WHAT WE DO
MILLIONS OF STUDENTS LACK A SENSE OF BELONGING TO THEIR SCHOOL
The majority of Hispanic high school students feel like they do not belong in their school and they are not connected to a community.
Yet, a sense of belonging plays a crucial role in a students well being and ability to succeed. Research shows that when a student does not have a sense of belonging in school, they are more likely to drop out, engage in at-risk behavior, as well as face unemployment and incarceration.
A sense of belonging changes all of that. Academically. Mentally. Financially. It re-connects students to school. It counters at-risk behaviors. It builds the resilience to overcome barriers, even 20 years into adulthood, creating productive members of our society.
In school, a sense of belonging gives students feelings of security, identity and community, which, in turn, support academic, psychological and social development.
OUR SOLUTION: COMMUNITY
HoPe builds communities inside of high schools that empower students to thrive and grow holistically through leadership development, educational attainment, and social responsibility.
​
Since our founding in 2009, over 15,000 students have joined HoPe and participated in our HoPe Leadership Chapters at their schools.
​
The HoPe Leadership Chapters are the cornerstone after-school program for Hispanic/Latinx youth to strengthen their leadership skills, obtain educational guidance and resources, and give back through community service initiatives.
​
Each HoPe Leadership Chapter is led by a group of 4 high school students leaders in collaboration with their chapter advisors, and is composed of high school members who interact weekly through various activities hosted at their school.
​
Our program is hosted in 88 high schools across the country, serves over 4,000 families annually, and achieves a 100% graduation rate among our students.