Impact*  Defying the Odds

Impact in Action

Nationally, only 1 out of 10 first-generation college students earn a four-year degree. At LUCA, 97% of Scholars remain on track to graduate or have graduated. Providing access to higher education is critical among low-income Latino youth. Not only do college graduates have greater career opportunities, but they also earn substantially more over their lifetimes. However, the benefits of higher education go beyond economic gains. Education can change everything!

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Serving Our Community

We partner with school districts that have high Latino student populations (approx. 50% or more) across Westchester County, New York. With the support of dedicated volunteers, we deliver culturally-relevant college access and financial aid programs in Spanish and English.

3,728 parents and students attended Community Information Sessions
2,648 parents and students participated in FAFSA completion programs
96% of families completed and submitted FAFSA applications
70% of families completed and submitted FAFSA applications

College Success & Workforce Development

The need for a well-educated workforce grows increasingly urgent. Latinos are the nation’s youngest and fastest-growing demographic; they will account for 50% of new employees entering the workforce by 2025.

We guide Scholars every step of the way as they navigate college and transition into thriving careers. Our ongoing support focuses on college success, career readiness, and financial literacy.

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of Scholars are attending “most selective” or “very selective” universities versus 12% nationally.
This is the default image 55%
of Scholars are attending “most selective” or “very selective” universities versus 12% nationally.
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of Scholars are attending “most selective” or “very selective” universities versus 12% nationally.
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Meet Our Familia

At LUCA, we are truly one big familia. When Scholars cry reading their acceptance letters from top institutions, those tears of joy are not just in celebration of a milestone moment; they symbolize the fulfillment of a family dream and that all of the sacrifices, extra shifts, and late nights were worth it.

This is the default image Karen Volunteer College Coach “I wish more people understood the grit and determination shown by Latino U Scholars; they push themselves so hard to overcome every obstacle. As for the families, I find the intensity of love and pride they have for their children to be simply incredible.”
This is the default image Franklin Latino U Scholar ’20 & New York University ’24 “I wish more people understood the grit and determination shown by Latino U Scholars; they push themselves so hard to overcome every obstacle. As for the families, I find the intensity of love and pride they have for their children to be simply incredible.”
This is the default image Maria & Uriel Scholar Parents ’19 “I wish more people understood the grit and determination shown by Latino U Scholars; they push themselves so hard to overcome every obstacle. As for the families, I find the intensity of love and pride they have for their children to be simply incredible.”
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