What It is About

Adelante is divided into twelve-week sessions to maximize the personal attention each participant receives and to structure programming during the school year. Participation in the program is limited to fifteen boys per session between the ages of ten and fifteen. Participants are recruited from throughout the Cudell neighborhood of Cleveland, where Nueva Luz is located. The purpose of the Adelante program is to provide an afterschool youth program that impacts the positive self-development of its participants.

How We Do It

It uses research on best practice interventions to achieve this goal. Each week, youth come together for discussion and education on personal development, leadership skills, and healthy relationships. Adelante participants develop supportive relationships with Youth Development Coaches through one-on-one mentoring. These Coaches are adult men who serve as positive role models to the youth.

Martial Arts Program

Additionally, participants train with a Sifu of Martial Arts weekly. Martial Arts is the focal point of the Adelante program because of its valuable lessons in self-discipline, focus, personal development, and goal achievement. Each participant in Adelante has the opportunity to earn a Martial Arts uniform at the program's completion, when family is invited to a meaningful graduation ceremony.

Community Program

Adelante participants are also involved in one community volunteer project per session. Through a partnership with Ward 18 Councilman Jay Westbrook, youth are paired with seniors in the neighborhood who need assistance with yard maintenance. Each twelve-week Adelante session also includes a field trip to a destination within Cuyahoga County. The field trip aims to enrich participants' lives by broadening their experiences beyond the immediate surroundings of their daily lives.