To empower and prepare youth for college admission and graduation through a unique approach based upon a greater cultural understanding as a guide to personal, academic and professional excellence as future leaders. 

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams " - Eleanor Roosevelt

A Message from Mrs. H

"It’s Women’s History Month!

I recall when I was working on my bachelor’s degree and my advisor informed me that I needed some electives. I was a political science major. I loved anthropology (looking back, I wish I would have taken more of these classes as well), but I came upon Women’s Studies courses and thought, 'Hmm – sounds interesting.' The first course I took was Women in U.S. History. I cannot put into words the impact this course had on me and I found myself taking more Women’s Studies courses. You see, I was a single parent and a survivor of domestic violence from my first husband. I found my place where I connected, was supported, encouraged, empowered and inspired. To this day I continue to stay connected to my professor, Dr. Mary Logan Rothschild, who has retired from teaching but is STILL an incredible activist – still inspiring me.

Another woman was Professor Muriel Magenta (College of Fine Arts), with whom I had an Independent Study helping her to create a publication for women entitled 'The Woman and The Quilt,' featuring various artists like Judy Chicago and Faith Ringgold. As an artist, I was overwhelmed with the artists I would be introduced to – an incredible experience.

Another woman, Professor Anne Schneider (Justice Studies), was phenomenal in helping me to gain a greater understanding of Public Policy & Democracy, sparking my interest and pursuit in Juvenile Justice Policy which would become my area of study in my PhD program. These women helped to lay the foundation for AGUILA: juvenile justice studies led to my work with youth; women’s studies is woven into our curriculum and in our powerful components, ALMA (for our young women) and Men of Honor, guiding our young men.

I am often asked 'Why art – wasn’t that a waste?' I will never forget Professor Magenta’s advice to me as she stood with her arms stretched out to her sides, 'You have to dream big to be able to grow – consider everything before you narrow your ideas,' as she brought her arms in. 'Because if you only consider this much (arms stretched out in front) there is not much room to grow.' I have grown from these powerful women who laid a foundation for me and along the way I have met so many incredible women who have inspired, supported and motivated me. There are too many to list here (it would take pages) but I will never forget the opportunity I had to sit in the U.S. Supreme Court and listen to U.S. Supreme Court Justice Sonia Sotomayor. I was a part of the 2010 NHLI (National Hispana Leadership Institute) Cohort and there was a gathering of many cohorts in the court that day. We hung on her every word as she walked down the aisle and stopped in the middle, laying her hand on my shoulder and smiling at me. I could scarcely breathe. I cried relaying the story to my husband not only because I had the opportunity but because the most important woman in my life, my mother, was there with me in spirit.



My mother was and still remains my shero and so much of my book is based on the many lessons she taught me. I know as she journeyed to the heavens, God said to her, 'Job well done, my good and faithful servant.'"

Every MOMENT is an organizing OPPORTUNITY, every PERSON a potential ACTIVIST, every MINUTE a CHANCE to change the WORLD!

-Dolores Huerta



Get ready to swing into action—the 3rd Annual CHANCLA Open is back and bigger than ever! ⛳️🎉

This isn’t just a golf tournament; it’s a full-blown fiesta packed with mouthwatering food, high-stakes raffles, and the best crowd around! Whether you’re a pro or just here for the vibes, grab your friends and family—the energy is going to be electric and the memories will be legendary.

Let’s bring the community together for a day of big laughs, high fives, and total joy. Dust off those clubs, bring your A-game, and let’s make some magic on the green! 🌟

Don’t miss out! There’s still time to join the fun—click below to register now! ⬇️

Here's to strong women

May we know them

May we be them

May we raise them

-Unknown

Take the Leap

When I tell people that I only saw my family eight times in four years while I was in college, the reaction is always the same — a look of shock, followed by an audible gasp.

Yes, I missed birthdays.

Yes, I missed holidays.

Yes, I missed special moments.

But what I didn’t miss was the opportunity to build a life bigger than the one I came from.

When I left my home states of California and Arizona to move to North Carolina for college, I understood something early on: home wasn’t going anywhere. Four years felt big at 18 years old — but in the grand scheme of a lifetime, it was just a blip. A small sacrifice for long-term dividends.

In high school, I knew I didn’t want to go to “High School 2.0” and attend an in-state school where I would see the same people as I did in high school, have the same experiences, and stay in the same comfort zone. I wanted to go as far as I could — physically and mentally. I wanted to take a leap of faith. It was sink or swim. And no one was coming to save me because it was a choice I had made for myself. So I bet on myself. I moved 3,000+ miles away, across three time zones, to a place where I had zero friends and zero family. I showed up with two suitcases, a backpack, a hand-me-down laptop that only worked if it was plugged in, $500 in gift cards, and my pride.

I honestly don’t know how I made it work.

But I did. Because when you put yourself in a new environment, you either adapt — or you get left behind. College didn’t just educate me academically. It stretched me. It matured me. It exposed me to new cultures, new perspectives, and new expectations. I had to grow up quickly. I learned who I was when things were hard. I learned what I was capable of. So when I say I only saw my family eight times, I don’t say it for sympathy. I say it with pride, because eight years later, I’m back in Arizona. I see my parents every day. I built a life — for my wife, for my kids, and for my parents — that allows us to live together. The four years that once felt so long now feel like nothing. And I would make that sacrifice again every single time if I knew the reward would be this life. So if you are on the fence about moving away for college… Taking that job across the country… Stepping into something unfamiliar and uncomfortable…

Understand this:

Taking a chance on yourself can be life-changing.

Do it without hesitation.

Do it without reservation.

Do it with pride, courage, and confidence.

Home is not a zip code.

Home is whatever and wherever you build it.

Bet on yourself.



The return on investment might be greater than you ever imagined.

College Readiness Starts Early — And AGUILA Is Leading the Way

When should college readiness begin?

Research shows it should start much earlier than most families think — as early as 5th grade. In fact, many educators believe the mindset of “college begins now” can begin as early as kindergarten. Some schools across the country promote this message from day one, creating a culture where students understand that their daily habits, academic effort, and character development all connect to their future.

At AGUILA Youth Leadership Institute, we believe every student deserves that same early foundation.

Middle school is a critical turning point. It is during these years that:

• Study habits are formed
• Academic confidence develops
• Identity and peer influence grow stronger
• Long-term goals begin to take shape

Waiting until high school to talk about college is simply too late.

College readiness is not just about getting accepted to a university — it is about developing the skills, mindset, and awareness to keep options open. It means understanding:

• Why grades matter
• How GPA impacts scholarships
• The importance of attendance
• Building leadership experience
• Exploring careers and academic pathways

Through AGUILA programming, middle school scholars gain access to:

• High school preparation workshops
• Goal-setting and academic planning support
• Leadership development
• College and career exploration
• Mentorship and positive peer networks
• Family engagement resources

We teach our scholars that success is built daily — in how they show up, how they respond to challenges, and how they plan for their future. Imagine if every student in our community believed from kindergarten forward:

“My education matters. My future matters. College begins now.”

That belief changes behavior.

That belief builds confidence.

That belief expands opportunity.

Now Recruiting: Peoria Middle School Academy

AGUILA is currently recruiting 7th and 8th grade scholars for our Peoria Middle School Academy. This program is designed to strengthen college readiness, leadership skills, and high school preparation before students make the critical transition to 9th grade. Applications are open now through March 15th.

Three monthly sessions (dates and locations TBD).

Open to scholars across the Peoria school district community.

We encourage families, educators, and community partners to spread the word and help us build a strong college-going culture starting in middle school.

Because preparation doesn’t begin senior year.

It begins now.

Learn more and apply at:

www.aguilayouth.org

Make Your Tax Dollars Work for our Youth!

Investing in the AGUILA Youth Leadership Institute is one of the most effective ways to support Arizona’s next generation of leaders while receiving a dollar-for-dollar tax credit on your state income taxes.

Why Your Donation Matters

AGUILA provides a holistic college access program for 6th through 12th-grade students, focusing on academic excellence, cultural understanding, and civic engagement.

• Proven Impact: Since its founding, AGUILA students have been awarded over $150 million in scholarships beyond federal aid.
• Academic Excellence: The program has a track record of increasing student standardized test scores and college admission and graduation rates.
• Community Building: Known as "The Nest," the institute fosters a lifelong "Pay It Forward" philosophy, with alumni returning to mentor the next generation.

How the Arizona Charitable Tax Credit Works

Because AGUILA is a certified Qualifying Charitable Organization (QCO), your donation can directly reduce your state tax liability.

• 2025 Tax Year Limits: You can claim a credit of up to $495 if filing single/head of household, or up to $987 if filing jointly.
• 2026 Tax Year Limits: The limits increase to $506 for individuals and $1,009 for joint filers.
• Dollar-for-Dollar Benefit: Unlike a deduction, which only reduces taxable income, a credit reduces the actual taxes you owe. If you owe $1,000 and donate $495, you then only owe the state $505.
• No Extra Cost: You are essentially redirecting tax dollars you already owe to a cause that directly benefits local youth.

How to Donate and Claim Your Credit

1. Donate Directly: Make a contribution via the AGUILA Donation Page or by mail.
2. Keep Your Receipt: AGUILA will provide a receipt as proof of your gift.
3. File Your Taxes: When filing your Arizona state return, use Form 321 and enter AGUILA’s specific QCO Code: 22006.
4. Deadline: To claim the credit for your 2025 tax return, you must donate by April 15, 2026.

Support our future leaders—at no cost to you!

A simple way to support the AGUILA while you do your everyday shopping.

By using ShopRaise, a percentage of your purchases at over 1,000 popular stores (like Walmart, Macy’s, and Lowe’s) goes directly to AGUILA’s college-readiness programs.

Here is why it’s a win-win:

• It’s Free: It costs you nothing extra; the retailers donate the percentage.
• It’s Easy: Just download the app or browser extension, and it works in the background.
• It’s Impactful: These small amounts add up to provide scholarships and mentoring for local students.

Help us empower the next generation of leaders one purchase at a time. Click the link below to get started!



FRY'S COMMUNITY REWARDS

if you shop at Fry’s Food Stores, you can make an even bigger impact with just one click!

Here is why it’s a win-win:

• It’s Free: It costs you nothing extra; the retailers donate the percentage.
• You Keep Your Perks: You keep all your gas and discount points while Fry’s generously donates to AGUILA on your behalf.
• It’s Impactful: These small amounts add up to provide scholarships and mentoring for local students.

How to get started with Fry’s:

To start or double-check if your card is linked to AGUILA, sign up with your VIP Card on the Fry’s Community Rewards page and select AGUILA (or use our unique code: LV722).

Then, shop to your heart’s content knowing you are empowering the next generation of leaders. It’s that easy!

Building an even stronger "Nest" for our students is now as easy as clicking "Add to Cart!"

You can directly impact AGUILA’s daily operations and student workshops by purchasing much-needed supplies from our Amazon Wish List. Whether it's college prep materials, office essentials, or snacks for our hard-working students, every item goes straight to work.

Why Donate Supplies?

• Direct Impact: You know exactly where your money is going—from the pens used for SAT prep to the technology used for college applications.
• Ease of Giving: No checks to mail or forms to fill out. Just pick an item, checkout, and Amazon ships it directly to us!
• Support "The Nest": Keeping our resource center stocked ensures that every student who walks through our doors has the tools they need to succeed.

How to Help in 30 Seconds:

1. Visit our Wish List
2. Pick an Item: Choose anything from a $5 pack of highlighters to larger tech needs.
3. Checkout: Select the AGUILA Shipping Address at checkout.

It’s a simple way to provide the "fuel" our students need to soar. Thank you for being part of their journey!