LEI Middle School Programs

ENLACE inspires and transforms boys into scholars through a comprehensive approach that encompasses life skills, personal development, education, cultural enrichment, career exploration, early college awareness, and sports. 

Guided by Latino male college students and leaders from the community, the boys are provided with mentorship and positive role models. By participating in life skills workshops and engaging in resiliency-based activities, the boys are provided with opportunities to develop discipline and gain insights into their identities, culture, and the Worcester community. Moreover, the program instills in them a profound appreciation for education and helps them understand the impact that pursuing post-secondary education can have on their own lives and the lives of their families.

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“ENLACE has shown me how I can still have a big chance of getting into college one day.”

—Brian Fernandez, 2023

One Circle is a transformative program designed for BIPOC girls aged 10 to 14. It focuses on exploring cultural identity, stress reduction, and overall wellness, aiming to empower both the girls and their families in addressing crucial issues associated with the coming of age, puberty, self-esteem, and the emotional challenges arising from the pandemic and other significant life-changing events.

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Testimonial by Student

“I enjoyed this experience of  learning how to control my body when I am really frustrated or stressed. One Circle is one of the best experiences I’ve been involved in and I believe any other girl who’s interested should experience it because it’s incredible.” 

“I really recommend One Circle because I really enjoyed Zumba, yoga and the activities and it was a really fun experience.”

The name ASPIRE came from the shared belief in helping students and families see the world of possibilities for their futures, and recognize that they are agents of change, while also motivating and lifting horizons for families and students. Thus, our ASPIRE Summer Academy is an out-of-school family-centric and cross-cultural enrichment summer program dedicated to engaging our middle schoolers in positive youth development opportunities while helping their families support their children’s academic success through our Parent Engagement Navigation Services. This  authentic multicultural platform helps participants to further understand as well as develop positive youth experiences.  

ASPIRE participants build their sense of community within Worcester. They collaborate on community-based improvement projects (project-based learning)  that help to solve real-world issues using what is most important, their voices. Students develop ownership for their learning and take initiative through projects and problem solving focused on real life struggles and challenges. Furthermore, the program offers a variety of trips and on-campus activities to expose them to potential future careers in STEM and the arts, and helps them view themselves as agents of change. 

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“I like ASPIRE because it’s fun and I get to meet new people while learning more about Worcester. ASPIRE has made me learn more about my city and helped me to learn more skills.”

—Leah Cruz (2023)

“In ASPIRE, it’s worth it to come. We get to go on a lot of trips and spend time with our friends. I like coming to the program.”

—Mia Montalvo (2023)