Members of the Waseca Organizing Committee.
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Centro Campesino is proud to announce the successful implementation of our youth organizing campaign. Ever since we started working with the youth and kids in our community in 2001 through our after school program Club Latino we have seen the need to start developing the organizers the community needs. Currently Centro Campesino is organizing three youth organizing committees in Owatonna, Waseca and recently in Northfield.
Over 40 youth leaders participate in this program that mainly focuses on community organizing and leadership development skills. All of this, in conjunction with a strong cultural background, motivation and academic improvement strategies. Our apprentices range from 7 - 12 graders and are mostly Latino students from different backgrounds including Mexico, Peru and Bolivia.
Two weeks ago Northfield High School students decided to take the first step and organize their own group. Over 10 students from the school will participate in the program for the rest of the school year and the summer. "We are proud to see how Centro Campesino is making a difference for our community not only for migrant workers or Latino residents but also for our youth" said Victor Contreras, Centro Campesino co-founder.
Personally it is an honor to be part of this program and being able to open the doors for resources to other students. I am not sure if all the apprentices will become organizers one day, but I am sure they will make a difference for the community on whatever it is that they do. Centro Campesino will continue with its dreams to empower our youth and be the vehicle for the leaders our community's needs.
Soon you will hear from our youth organizers as they launch their new grassroots fundraising campaign. Their goal will be to raise $10,000.00 to create a scholarship fund for low income students. I am sure they will count with you unconditional support as they develop this dream.
Thank you to all of you that have supported our work, to all the foundations, the Waseca community education and Northfield High School.
¡Todo es posible!
Sincerely
Jesús Torres
Youth Organizer
