People in rural communities who do not have a high school diploma cannot acquire what we would consider to be entry-level positions (gas pump attendant, cashier, etc.).
Without higher education, many are stuck in the cycle of poverty that their family has been for generations. However, due to financial and physical obstacles, young people often do not have the chance to attend high school.
How does Rainbow Network support students in rural communities?
Colectivos
Rainbow Network offers classes for primary school students in the afternoons, called "colectivos", where students receive reinforcement in their core subjects, special tutoring, and a safe space to cultivate their creativity and individuality. Each student receives a nutritious meal through our nutrition center. We currently operate over 400 afternoon reinforcement classes for primary school students.
High School Scholarships
A Rainbow Network scholarship provides supplies, uniforms, and stipends for transportation to school and other educational-related expense to students in high school. The program is managed by Education Coordinators that regularly check in on the students and monitor their progress and well-being. In addition, the students, their families, and their community have access to Rainbow Network resources including basic healthcare, improved nutrition, and economic development.
In return for their scholarships, students volunteer in their community and foster a love of education in younger students by teaching in the colectivos. We currently support over 1,000 high school students through our scholarship program.