Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Charlotte Observer (NC) (Published as Charlotte Observer, The (NC)) - May 19, 2013
Rebecca, 17, is one of 15 Latina teens in the program. She's a student at Phillip O. Berry Academy of Technology in Charlotte. Circle de
Luz provided access to the group members on the condition their last names not be used - part of the group's agreement with the parents
and teens to protect their privacy as much as possible.
Rebecca, whose family came to the United States to escape war-torn El Salvador, was proud that she had successfully completed the
ropes course.
With tears in her eyes, Rebecca talked about the emotional support she received from her network of mijas and fellow Latina teens after
her grandfather died.
"They were there supporting me, telling me everything was going to be OK. They become my second family," said Rebecca, who hopes
to be accepted into Princeton University when she graduates from high school. She wants to become an electrical engineer.
Gabby is a junior at Mallard Creek High School. Proud of her Colombian heritage, Gabby has developed strong bonds with her mijas and
other teens in the program. They have celebrated with her during good times and helped her during bad times.
"I've become more aware of where I am, where I need to be and steps to take to help me to get there," Gabby said.
When she graduates from high school, Gabby - a violin player and singer - wants to study music in college.
Circle de Luz will celebrate its first graduating class in 2014 and Gabby plans to be among its members.
Molinary said all of the teens want to go to college and she hopes the five years they've spent in Circle de Luz will provide them with the
knowledge and confidence to achieve their goals.
"I think the most significant thing we do is broaden our teens' sense of what's possible, which makes them eager to focus on the life they
want to create," Molinary said.
We provide them a sense of self awareness and support, Molinary said, so that they can make significant contributions to their families,
their culture and the country as a whole.
Kim Smith is a freelance writer for City News. Have a story idea for Kim? Email him at drksmith1960@yahoo.com.
Want to help?
Circle de Luz is looking for mentors, volunteers and donors who will help support a new class of Latina teens as part of their circle of mijas
network. For information, contact Circle de Luz at 704-516-8690 or circledeluz@gmail.com or go to www.circledeluz.org.
Caption: Members of Circle de Luz encourage participants who have made their way up the ropes course and are on their way down at
Erwin Lodge in Davidson. KIM SMITH Rebecca Gabby
Record: 10865114
Copyright: Copyright (c) 2013 The Charlotte Observer