Centro Guadalupano’s mission is “to be companions on the journey with immigrant families and the economically disadvantaged by providing educational programs and human services.” We work in four program areas: adult education, youth development, direct outreach, and wellness services. Our approach recognizes the gospel message that physical human needs must be met before anyone can focus on education in spiritual or other matters. Outreach and wellness services provide for basic needs so that families can focus on the educational opportunities needed to alleviate poverty and achieve long-term stability.
CLICK HERE to see how our work is making a difference!
The closure of all in-person activities in March 2020 due to COVID-19 meant that we were unable to complete the school year programming for Andale after school and Adult English classes. During the “stay at home” order, program staff made weekly phone calls to families to help connect them to needed resources. We conducted three food drives to benefit families in all of our programs and we connected several students to long-distance tutoring via phone apps. This school year we had to modify activities to accommodate in-person small group learning that followed all MDH and CDC social distancing guidelines. Families have been eager to participate and have done an excellent job of following in-person guidelines as well as staying home and notifying of illness in their families when needed. What we need to do has not changed. What has changed is how we need to do it. The mission, core values, and programs remain the same.
Our biggest needs are sustainable financial support and additional long-term volunteers to continue providing high-quality programs for our families. We do not currently have a wish list for needed items. We do receive in-kind donations of school supplies, winter wear, and many other goods for families through many existing partnerships. CLICK HERE to learn more.Centro Guadalupano is accepting volunteers. For more information, please contact, Ginger Graham, at vcgm.centro@gmail.com or 612-724-3651 extension 214.