LFDEF News

On May 3, 2017, participants in the SISU program had the opportunity to spend some time at the Northern Essex Community College (NECC) “College for a Day” program. Participants were given a tour of the Lawrence Campus and were able to sit in on a class.

Experiences like the “College for a Day” program are instrumental to LFD’s goal of changing the dialogue around college. Because of this program, SISU participants who had never thought of going to college have realized that it is very real opportunity.

"This is my first time in this place, I can't believe no one has ever believed in me enough to bring me here and show me this" C.R.

Another participant who had never dreamed of going to college took the initiative to sign up for classes after sitting in a psychology class.

Thanks to NECC and the College for a Day program, what had once seemed beyond their reach, has now become a very reachable goal.

Special thanks to the SISU Transition Specialist, Allishah Mohammed, for making this day happen.

August 1, 2016

Cycle 21 is looking like a historic year for YouthBuild Lawrence in many ways. One of those, which we are incredibly proud of is, the highest number of students pursuing dual enrollment in college and YouthBuild. This year, five of our young women are enrolled in the Northern Essex Community College’s Bridge Program. The Bridge program is a two week introduction to college classes, campus life and how to utilize all of the colleges’ many resources. The Bridge Program is sponsored by the Student Success Center for incoming Latino(a) college students and is designed to help ease students’ adjustment to college life and build a foundation for academic success. 

The partnership between YouthBuild Lawrence and NECC ensures that the students will achieve their goals of graduating college to pursue the career of their dreams. The students were encouraged by YouthBuild Lawrence’s Coordinator of Placement and Career Services, Allishah Mohammed.

YouthBuild studentparticipants from left to right, Gloria Martinez, Diana Rivera, Emerald Vasquez, Alonda Mercedes, and Karina Gabin.