Fortaleza’s project design reinforces mentoring expectations such as curbing recidivism rate, workforce development, involvement in cultural enrichment activities, and augmenting bonding with peers, family, and community. The Fortaleza Project provides assistance to Latino young adults between the ages of 18-24 transitioning from the Pima County jail to the community. Amistades infuses the project with culture, with a specific focus on cultural mentoring (individual and group). Padrinos (mentors) provide the cultural mentoring/support. Amistades serves as a cultural advisor for various activities and, specifically, implements workshops (talleres) and provides a cultural activity during family night (noche de familias). All culturally responsive concepts are research based and increase program retention, social/cultural awareness, and reaffirmation of identity as to foster positive transformation and reintegrate program participants into the workforce and society. This project is funded by the OJJDP and is a collaboration between Pima Prevention Partnership, Tucson Urban League and Amistades.
Latinos, Racial Equity, Social Justice, Cultural Preservation, Health Equity, Intergenerational Education, Narrative Change, Substance Abuse Prevention