28
Youth Leaders
Engaged in 2025
663
Volunteer Hours
by Young People
36
Youth-Led
Initiatives Launched
FOR TEENS
Junta RISES
Junta RISES is our teen empowerment program — a multi-year initiative focused on leadership development, service learning, workforce readiness, and financial literacy for middle and high school students in New Haven County.
RISES gives teens the tools, mentorship, and real-world experience to become changemakers in their community — and in their own lives. In 2025 we engaged 28 youth leaders who logged 663 volunteer hours and launched 36 youth-led initiatives.
🌟
Leadership Development
Workshops, mentorship, and real-world leadership experience — building confidence and civic identity in young New Haven residents.
💰
Financial Literacy
Hands-on workshops in budgeting, saving, and entrepreneurship — practical skills that last a lifetime.
💼
Workforce Readiness
Resume building, interview skills, professional mentorship, and internship pathways for New Haven's next generation.
📚
Service Learning
Community service projects that build empathy, civic identity, and a lifelong commitment to giving back.
FOR SCHOOL-AGED CHILDREN
Big Turtle Village
Celebrating 25 years in 2026, Big Turtle Village is Junta's signature program for school-aged children — three offerings that keep kids engaged, supported, and growing year-round.
After School
Arte partnership
Summer Camp
Day camp program
Sleepaway Camp
Overnight adventure
WEEKDAY SUPPORT
After School Program
Part of Big Turtle Village, our after-school program provides a safe, structured, and supportive environment for school-aged children in New Haven County — offered in partnership with Arte. Homework help, enrichment activities, and caring mentors in a culturally affirming space.
✓ Homework help & academic support
✓ Arts, enrichment & creative activities
✓ Mentorship from caring adult staff
✓ Culturally affirming environment
✓ Free snacks & safe space until pickup
SUMMER 2026
Summer Camp &
Sleepaway Camp
Celebrating 25 years in 2026, Big Turtle Village is Junta's beloved summer program for school-aged children — a flagship offering that has shaped generations of Fair Haven youth. Choose from day camp or our signature sleepaway camp experience.
Part adventure, part community-building, all heart. Big Turtle Village gives children a summer they'll never forget — and a foundation they'll carry for the rest of their lives.
✓ Day camp — summer enrichment & outdoor activities
✓ Sleepaway camp — overnight adventure & community building
✓ Cultural programming & community pride
✓ Arts, music, sports & field trips
✓ Safe, supervised, bilingual environment
YOUTH MENTORSHIP
Mentorship Program
Our youth mentorship program connects young people with caring, experienced mentors from the community — professionals, advocates, and leaders who are committed to opening doors and walking alongside the next generation.
Whether you're a young person looking for guidance or a professional ready to give back, the mentorship program creates lasting relationships that shape futures on both sides.
🌟 For Youth
One-on-one guidance from a mentor in your area of interest — career, education, or community leadership.
💼 Career Pathways
Mentors help youth explore careers, build professional networks, and prepare for the workforce.
🤝 For Mentors
Share your skills, experience, and network with a young person in New Haven County who needs you.
🎓 Education Support
College prep, scholarship guidance, and first-generation student support through mentorship connections.
Apply to the Program
Youth Application
For middle & high school students seeking a mentor
Mentor Application
For professionals & community members ready to give back
Youth & Family Pantry
Our youth participants play an active role in organizing, collecting, and distributing food through Junta's pantry program — learning the value of service while directly helping their neighbors. The pantry distributes food to families in need weekly, with our young people leading the charge.
Volunteer hours logged through pantry work also count toward SNAP eligibility for qualifying participants — a meaningful, practical benefit for families who give their time.
Providing culturally responsive social services to New Haven County's Hispanic community since 1969.
PROGRAMS
EVENTS
ORGANIZATION
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