This project will support 305 low-income youth from at-risk communities in Limon, Costa Rica, to stay in school and ultimately finish high school. Through improving the environment at the high school, strengthening the students' sense of belonging, strengthening teachers' teaching methods, developing the students' soft skills and providing vocational orientation, Fundacion Accion Joven helps prepare youth living in poverty to complete their secondary education and obtain quality employment.
In Costa Rica, only 46.3% of youth finish high school, and there are 200,000 youth between 12 and 24 years that are neither studying nor working. In the Caribbean port city of Limon, the situation is even more challenging, with higher unemployment and violence rates. If youth don't finish high school, they have few opportunities for decent future employment and escaping poverty. This project will support Limonense youth to stay in school through projects, workshops & a Youth Employment Program.
Using our proven approach, the project will help youth finish high school. We will work directly with 7th & 10th grade students at Pacuare High School, as the highest percentage of youth abandon school in these grades. The project includes weekly sessions to teach soft skills, provide academic & emotional support & build group cohesion, so youth want to study. 10th & 11th graders will also participate in a Youth Employment Program, providing vocational orientation, company visits & internships.
This project will directly impact 305 7th & 10th grade students. Students will be able to finish high school due to ongoing support & improved relationships with their peers & teachers. Through finishing high school & the Youth Employment Program, students will have the opportunity to continue their studies and/or obtain quality employment. This will reduce poverty & vulnerability to illicit activities (drug trafficking), generating positive impact for Limon's social & economic development.
