Born of a commitment to expand the possibilities for under-resourced Latinas (girls and women of Latin American origin or heritage) in Charlotte, Circle de Luz strives to bridge the gap between our students’ dreams and their realities in an active, respectful partnership with our program members and their families.

We begin working with a small cohort of students in the seventh grade and engage in six years of hands-on educational programming, mentorship, and resource support tailored to the needs and goals of our members. Following our comprehensive 12-category developmental model, we design an enriched programming schedule featuring over 70 annual programs for both students and families. Examples of programs include college tours, career panels, professional development workshops, community resource fairs, study groups, financial literacy education, and community service engagements, to name a few.

In addition, we serve students and families through a robust case management system. Our Case Manager provides dedicated bilingual and culturally responsive support to each household. This support includes therapy referrals, health care referrals, health insurance applications, food bank referrals, furniture referrals, rental assistance applications, and more.

Upon graduating from high school and completing the program, each student receives a $5,000 scholarship to apply to a career path of their choosing. This financial aid helps to reduce barriers to accessing post-secondary education.

Learn more at www.circledeluz.org

Circle de Luz

Empowering Dreams, Transforming Futures

Mission

Our Team

Vanessa Martinez

Tere Gonzalez Garcia