Upcoming LAUP youth programs aim to prepare West Michigan students for college, careers
Designed to bolster academic and professional readiness across West Michigan, the programs pair students with community leaders and LAUP staff. Participants explore college pathways, earn certifications, complete volunteer hours, and outline personal milestones for life after high school.
HOLLAND — Registration is officially open for Latin Americans United for Progress’ flagship youth initiatives, the nonprofit announced Friday.
The 2026-27 ¡Adelante! (Forward) and ¡Más Adelante! (More Forward) programs aim to guide local high school students toward higher education and post-graduation career opportunities.
Designed to bolster academic and professional readiness across West Michigan, the programs pair students with community leaders and LAUP staff. Participants explore college pathways, earn certifications, complete volunteer hours, and outline personal milestones for life after high school.
The announcement comes off a strong year for the organization, which supported 100 local youth during its previous session.
Last year's cohort saw 47 students graduate from ¡Adelante! and 30 complete ¡Más Adelante!, with 26 participants securing placement in the Grand Valley State University Pathway program.
The programming is divided by grade level and hosted across three regional hubs:
- ¡Adelante!: Designed primarily for ninth- and 10th-graders, though motivated eighth-grade students are also eligible.
- ¡Más Adelante!: Tailored for 11th- and 12th-graders as they navigate senior-year transitions and post-secondary planning.
Sessions will run out of Grand Haven, Fennville, and the main LAUP Office in Holland. The central LAUP location will host students from Black River, Holland, Zeeland, and West Ottawa high schools.
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Families interested in enrolling can attend an upcoming Welcome Night from 5-7 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 9, at the LAUP Office. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet Youth Programs Coordinator Ashley Rodriguez, speak with program instructors, and complete registration on-site.
The final deadline to register for the 2026-27 program year is Sept. 21.
For enrollment details, contact Ashley Rodriguez at 616-368-3069 or via email at ashley@laup.org.
Further information regarding LAUP’s regional advocacy, workforce development, and cultural initiatives is available at laup.org.
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