Volunteer Appreciation Month, celebrated each April, is a meaningful time to recognize and honor the contributions of volunteers who dedicate their time, energy, and talents to making a difference in their communities.
At LUCA, we are especially grateful for our incredible Volunteer College Coaches who walk alongside our Scholars throughout their college journeys. Hear from our Scholars themselves about the impact these dedicated Coaches have had on their lives.
Meet Joseph B. - Joseph is a LUCA Scholar ‘24, and a freshman at Baruch College. In this heartfelt message, he shares the incredible support and guidance he's received from his Volunteer Coach, Silchen.
“Susan and Alan Grotenstein are more than just mentors—they didn’t just guide me through the application process; they prepared me for the world beyond it. And once I stepped into that world, they never let go.”
Jennifer V.
LUCA Scholar ‘23,
Binghamton University ‘27
“Christine's support and resilience taught me the true value in stepping out of your comfort zone to grow, and I wouldn't be where I am today without her empowerment.”
Alondra V.
LUCA Scholar ‘21,
George Washington University '25
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In recognition of Volunteer Appreciation Month, we gathered to celebrate our extraordinary LUCA volunteers who empower our students to reach for their college dreams. Our Volunteer Appreciation Event honored the unwavering dedication of our College Coaches, FAFSA Guides, and those who provide Essay Support, Career Readiness and Resume Review assistance, and Operations support — all individuals who generously volunteer their time to illuminate pathways to higher education. It was an event filled with sincere gratitude as we acknowledged the profound and lasting impact of their guidance and support on the lives of our students.
LUCA welcomed 113 Scholars to the Class of 2026 and their families at two recent orientations. The orientations marked the beginning of their exciting journeys with the LUCA community—a space where community and achievement are at the heart of everything we do.
This pivotal introduction equipped them with the knowledge and information that they need to excel throughout the college admissions process and in their future endeavors.
Joining the LUCA family marks the beginning of an exciting journey, and we are thrilled to witness the extraordinary contributions they will undoubtedly make!
Huge congratulations to Doriz on her acceptance to medical school! This August, she’ll begin her M.D. journey at Central Michigan University College of Medicine. Doriz’s achievement is more than just a milestone—it’s a powerful reflection of her determination, purpose, and the strength of the community that’s supported her along the way. LUCA is proud to stand beside her as she takes this next transformative step toward becoming a physician.
"I immediately FaceTimed my mom to let her know, which prompted happy tears on both ends. Overall, it was such a surreal moment, and I'm excited to take the next steps in my career as a future physician.”
Doriz Y.
LUCA Scholar ‘19, Manhattan College ‘23
REGENERON CAREER EXPLORATION DAY
Launching LUCA’s partnership with REGENERON, LUCA Scholars & Alumni attended “Career Exploration Day” by visiting the REGENERON Tarrytown campus on April 10. The day featured remarks from Dr. Alejo Mujica, Senior Manager of Research Program Management and co-chair of Regeneron's "Juntos" ERG, as well as presentations by representatives from Regeneron's senior leadership. Additionally, tours of the VelociGene and Genetics Center were offered, along with career insights from the University Relations team regarding internships and co-op programs.
Scholars—68% pursuing STEM—engaged in panel introductions and roundtable talks with 10 first-gen REGENERON professionals from diverse departments. LUCA alum Stephen Ojeda-Britez (Class of 2015), now working at Regeneron as an Associate Scientist, joined the panel and shared his experience with the LUCA Scholars.
FINANCIAL AID REVIEW NIGHT
LUCA’s Financial Aid Review Night is a supportive event where Scholars and their families receive guidance on navigating the financial aid process. LUCA staff and volunteers collaborated to help review award letters, compare offers, and answer questions to ensure students and their families make informed, confident decisions about their college finances. This year, we were proud to assist 72 Scholars and parents with the support of 13 dedicated volunteers.
LUCA FOUNDER FEATURED IN AARP STUDIOS'
"FILMS WITH PURPOSE" EVENT
Join us for a FREE movie screening on May 13th at 4:00pm, when AARP Studios presents The Hidden Power of Purpose at the Jacob Burns Film Center. This feature-length documentary film narrated by Debbie Allen and featuring Dr. Sanjay Gupta, profiles four stories of incredible nonprofit Founders who are living lives driven by purpose and making the world a better place through their motivation and efforts. The film bridges the inspiring stories with the latest scientific research from academia and industry, interweaving insights from the world’s leading health experts whose work affirms that living a life of purpose and living longer are inextricably intertwined.
After the film, there will be a panel discussion with AARP New York, LUCA Founder Shirley Acevedo Buontempo, and one of the Volunteer College Coaches and Scholars in our program.
We look forward to seeing you on May 13th!
Questions or want to request tickets directly through LUCA?
Please email gbattaglia@latinou.org
LUCA | Latino U College Access
75 Virginia Road, 2nd fl. | White Plains, NY 10603
914-828-0404 | www.latinou.org
