The mission of Senderos is to create pathways to success and build community by sharing Latino culture through traditional arts and by fostering educational opportunities. Senderos, meaning pathways, provides equitable access to after school folkloric dance and traditional music classes. Senderos creates a sense of belonging for immigrant families, preserves their cultural traditions across generations, and supports academic success while increasing understanding and acceptance of diversity in Santa Cruz County.
Senderos will provide FREE after-school Mexican folkloric dance and traditional music instruction for Latino youth, most of whom are low-income. Senderos youth proudly showcase their talent in over 18 community and school festivals annually with 8,000 in attendance, and are encouraged to achieve their dreams for college and career. Senderos provides musical instruments and traditional dance outfits for practice and performance.
Senderos programs connect young people to their family heritage, enhance self-esteem, and push for academic success.
Being part of Senderos taught me the importance of helping my community, keeping my language alive, and not being afraid of showing my identity. Participating helped me keep my culture alive while also focusing on achieving my education dreams.
Magaly, Santa Cruz, 18
