Vision
We keep alive our native cultures and languages, represent our countries of origin with pride, share our culture and contribute to the larger community, promote harmony, and break stereotypes. We are healthy, successful, focused on fulfilling our dreams, and safe from gang influence.
Mission
Senderos specializes in teaching Latino culture and history through the artistic expression of dance and music, hosts an annual Guelaguetza, and offers other performances in local and far-reaching places. Our organization serves children, youth and adults of all ages, including English Language Learners and economically disadvantaged people, free of cost.
We create a college going culture by providing tutoring, awarding scholarships, fostering youth leadership, promoting bi-literacy, and creating opportunities for community service.
We work together to create a thriving, welcoming, family-oriented community that values all contributions, provides help when needed, and engages all participants in group decisions.
Arts Education Makes a Difference
Senderos believes that arts education for children and youth is important for fostering creative thinking, confidence, problem-solving, accountability, relationship building, communication, adaptability and dreaming big. (Lisa Phillips, The Artistic Edge). We see the results. One of the first participants in our Centeotl dance group went on to become valedictorian at Harbor High School. She graduated from Pomona College and has earned her Masters degree and a teaching credential at UC Santa Cruz. She is now helping the next generation find pathways to success through Senderos. This is just one story of many about making a difference for children, youth, and families.