Building Futures, One Story at a Time

Behind every program at EPHC are young people with big dreams, real challenges, and voices full of wisdom. This summer we sat down with three students, and one dedicated site manager at Ron Russel Middle School, to hear how our after-school and summer programs have impacted their lives.

These stories remind us why community matters. Our youth programs don’t just fill hours after school, they create spaces where children can grow, find community, and dream big.

Miguel: A Mentor for the Next Generation

For nearly six years, Miguel has dedicated his career to guiding and supporting youth. Over the past two years as a SUN (Schools Uniting Neighborhoods) Site Manager with EPHC, he has focused on elementary students drawn in by the warmth of parent involvement and the strong sense of community that surrounds them.

“One of the most beautiful experiences was seeing how families came together to support a young girl after her mother passed away. Without anyone organizing it, parents brought meals, arranged playdates, and made sure she knew she wasn’t alone.”

For Miguel, programs like Girl Scouts and community soccer leagues aren’t just activities – they’re lifelines. By connecting families, creating safe spaces, and fostering cultural pride, EPHC’s SUN programs help students grow academically, emotionally, and socially.

Pico: Finding Joy in Food, Sports, and Friendship

Howard, better known as Pico, is entering middle school with big dreams. For him, SUN is a place to eat good meals, play the sports he loves, and spend time with friends.

“You should go [to SUN] because it’s fun and you get to learn more. It’s like extra school that helps you get smarter – and it can help you get to college.”

With aspirations to play football at the University of Oregon, Pico understands that success comes with effort. SUN provides him with not only athletic outlets but also academic support, caring mentors, and healthy meals; taking care of the little things so that he can dream big.

Hector: Building Businesses and Belonging

For Hector, summer at SUN has been about more than games. Along with a classmate, he started a small business selling snacks and drinks – a venture that taught him responsibility, teamwork, and the classic lesson: “You have to spend money to make money.”

He also dreams of becoming a defense lawyer one day. What drives him is not just ambition but a desire to stand up for others.

“I want people to see they’re not too bad – that they deserve someone to defend them.”

Programs like STEM and criminal science clubs spark Hector’s curiosity, while bilingual staff remind him of the strength in his culture and identity. For students like him, SUN is more than after-school care – it’s a foundation for leadership and belonging.

Alberto: A Summer of Connection and Growth

At 13, Alberto joined SUN to learn, make new friends, and stay engaged over the summer. He participates in classes like Elevate, where students learn life skills while exploring fun places like bowling alleys and Portland’s waterfront.

“On the last day of school I thought, ‘Dang, I have to go two months without anybody to talk to.’ But then I came here, and every day I got to wake up, talk to teachers, talk to students. It was just a good thing to do.”

From football games to Lego building, Alberto has found not just fun, but joy, friendships, and confidence. His story highlights the importance of year-round engagement – helping students avoid isolation, stay active, and build positive relationships.

Why These Stories Matter

These four voices – Miguel, Pico, Hector, and Alberto – remind us that EPHC’s services are about much more than programming. They are about creating spaces where youth can:

See themselves reflected in mentors and staff who share their language and culture.
Build resilience through academic, social, and emotional supports.
Dream big with the skills, opportunities, and encouragement they need.

Every soccer practice, classroom activity, or community meal strengthens not only the individual student but the entire community.

Support Us & Get Involved

You can help ensure that stories like these continue. Whether through volunteering, donating, or spreading the word, your support helps us expand opportunities for thousands of Latine, immigrant, and refugee youth in Oregon.

Together, we are building futures – one story, one student, and one community at a time.

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