What We Do

Delaware has experienced explosive growth of its Hispanic population in the past decade. The educational attainment of Hispanics lags significantly behind that of Whites. Moreover, many Hispanics students have the added burden of having limited English proficiency. While there are efforts underway in Delaware to address the achievement gap between whites and Hispanics, there exists no statewide Hispanic youth-serving educational organization that can provide the supplemental services to Hispanic youth and their parents to ensure the success of the efforts of the educational establishment.
ASPIRA of Delaware has conducted state-wide focus groups to assess the educational needs of the Latino community. Four critical points regarding school-age children in Delaware were identified by the focus groups:

* The appearance of a growing transient student population
* The lack of structured after-school programs
* Poor parenting skills and a lack of quality parental involvement
* School and parent partnerships to promote school success

Aspira of Delaware, Inc., is implementing the Aspira Programs across the state is the right vehicle at the right time to support closing the Hispanic achievement gap. ASPIRA of Delaware is supported by ASPIRA’s forty-seven year track record of success in promoting educational achievement and personal growth for Hispanic youth and their families.
ASPIRA of Delaware is committed to developing youth and community programs that include:

* Youth leadership Development
* Academic and Career Advisement, Tutoring and Mentoring
* Financial Education
* Cultural Awareness programs
* Parental Engagement
* Health and Safety programs

Aspira of Delaware, Inc. will implement the Aspira Youth Development through core school programs that create youth-run leadership club structures. Youth will learn and practice parliamentary procedures and exercise their democratic rights and responsibilities through the election process. They will also strengthen skills such as public speaking, debating, problem solving, and conflict resolution. Through facilitated discussions, the youth study the history of their communities, explore issues that have affected their communities throughout history and at the present, deepen their awareness and understanding of their cultural heritage, and celebrate the contributions and achievements of Latinos through the years. The clubs provide a support system that is often lacking outside of the school environment. Field trips, presentations by invited guests, and close interaction with staff, volunteers and mentors expose the youth to successful role models. This will motivate youth to increase their awareness of their role within the society that surrounds them.