Through our community programs, Centro has provided community service since 1975 focused on increased individual and family self-reliance in Utah. Recognized for their holistic approach, Centro’s programs continue to have a measurable and systemic impact throughout the neediest youth, adult, and family communities along the Wasatch Front.
"Centro has been one of the most dedicated program providers we have worked with over the years. They are sincerely committed to our community and build authentic relationships with our families.”
- Keri Taddie, Glendale-Mountain View Community Learning Center Coordinator
These programs are set apart by the extraordinary high participant attendance and retention rates of 95% to 100%. The community continues to request extended and renewed community programs from Centro. We are proud of this legacy, of our professional staff, and of course, all our graduates!
Centro operates five community programs throughout the state of Utah.
Family Programs
Nuevo Día
Nuevo Día is an after-school program targeting Hispanic youth ages 9-12 from at-risk backgrounds, and their parents. This six-month program includes a preventive curriculum which establishes life-skills training and increases parent-child communication to minimize the risks of gang participation. This program operates twice a year.
Abriendo Puertas
Abriendo Puertas/Opening DoorsAbriendo Puertas/Opening Doors is the first leadership and advocacy program in the U.S. created by and for Latino parents with children ages 0–5. Developed with input from Latino families, it reflects their values, culture, and experiences while helping parents build skills to support their children’s learning and success. While it began with Latino parents, it can be adapted for families from all backgrounds.
The Abriendo Puertas/Opening Doors curriculum is research-based, shaped by parent feedback, and designed to engage families through interactive learning. Available in both Spanish and English, the 10 sessions promote school readiness, family well-being, and advocacy by addressing key areas of early childhood development, literacy, bilingualism, math, technology use, attendance, civic engagement, parent leadership, and goal setting for family success.
Colega
Colega is a program that teaches children and families about human rights. It helps parents understand their own rights and their children’s rights, and how to advocate for them. Through these lessons, families gain the knowledge and confidence to build a more fair and respectful community.
Youth Programs
Safe Dates
Sponsored by the Utah Health Department, Safe Dates provides students 13 to 18 years of age with the tools and knowledge necessary to have healthy relationships as well as to recognize and know what steps to take when relationships are abusive.
Adult Programs
Plazas Comunitarias
Funded in part by the Institute of Mexicans Abroad (IME), this adult education program gives adults a second chance to complete their elementary and secondary education. The Plazas Comunitarias course is offered to all native Spanish-speakers who would like to receive their elementary education certificates in order to move on to receive their GEDs and higher education.
Ventanilla de Orientación Educativa/Education Window (VOE)
This year-round program sponsored by the Mexican government and run by Centro provides individualized consultations and referrals to quality educational services throughout Utah and Mexico. Participants also receive assistance in completing educational applications, applying for financial aid, and are able to access developmental screenings and referrals for children.