Esperanza Juvenil means ‘youthful hope’ in Spanish. The Esperanza Juvenil program in Portland offers young people hope and a hand up, showing the way to a better future.

Established in July of 2007, it focuses on Latino youth ages 14-21 in Multnomah County who have drug and alcohol issues or are susceptible to gang involvement.

These youngsters are often in families new to the community, isolated by language, culture and a lack of resources. Some have become involved in the juvenile justice system.

Part of the larger FLOAT program, Esperanza Juvenil’s bilingual/bicultural team provides a range of services tailored for youth– addiction treatment, individual and family counseling, mentoring, in-home family support and education. The evidence-based treatments have been culturally adapted to reduce stigma and fear.

The care team meets youth in community centers to reduce barriers and more easily connect with them. The team partners with El Programa Hispano to provide gang prevention strategies, and works closely with school counselors and police to ensure ongoing prevention and follow up treatment.

Impact

• In the first six months of the program, Esperanza has served 18 gang-affected teens.
• In January 2007, five students “graduated” from the program
• For 100% of teen clients in the program, families have also been involved in counseling and related services