Latino Youth Leaders of Indianapolis — UPDATE!

In April we went to the Indian’s baseball game. The game was cancelled but the kids had a lot of fun on the bus ride there, they were able to eat hot dogs and burgers while in the suite and Rowdy came to visit them as well. The kids then went out for ice cream. They had a great time and they are getting to know each other and getting along well. I can see that some of the kids are starting to come out of their shell and making friends and talking a lot more with the group. Our next event is May 24th, we will be having the Latino Institute of Indiana come to Child Advocates and discuss with the kids and their caregivers possible resources that are available for them when they are ready to attend college. They will be discussing scholarships, financial aid and how to apply for these. The caregivers are welcome to attend so that they are also aware of what is available for their Youth and what special scholarships are out there for Latino’s.

Overall, I believe the LYLI program is going amazing. The kids love getting together and really enjoy experiencing new things and learning. So far the kids have learned about self –esteem and believing in themselves when we went to the Butler challenge in March. In February we had the career panel and the kids had tons of questions for our Latino Career panelist. The kids asked questions like what the panelist struggled with while in college, how they escaped bad influences, what inspired them.

I believe we are on the right track and the kids are going to keep learning more and more and they are having a great time. I see so much happiness and a difference in their attitude when they come to these events. I feel like it’s a time for them to relax and be themselves and not worry about what else is going on in their lives.

-Barbara Alvarado GAL