Fortaleza

Our Story

Fortaleza Inc. began as a grassroots initiative in 2017, sparked by a call to action from Luis Pedroso to Latino community leaders, educators, and parents in Lowell. The founders recognized a pressing issue: Latino students were not achieving the same educational success as their peers. Through extensive discussions and community engagement, the group prioritized advocacy for systemic change to address these disparities.

After a period of dormancy from 2019 to 2020, the organization was revitalized during the COVID-19 pandemic, which intensified educational inequities. Founding members Rosa, Cecilio, and Vladimir reassembled to formally establish Fortaleza as a 501c3 nonprofit dedicated to advocating for Latino student success. Under the leadership of Executive Director Marianela Rivera, Fortaleza is committed to building a strong foundation to support Latino students in Lowell.

Our Impact

Fortaleza’s mission is to catalyze collective action among parents, educators, and community members to ensure educational equity for Latino students.

Why Donate?

Your contribution is vital in providing college scholarships, eliminating disparities in educational access, and ensuring Latino representation in the Lowell educational system. Every donation helps establish equitable access to resources for Latino students in Lowell, Massachusetts.

Get Involved

Join the movement for educational equity! Your support can make a significant difference in the lives of Latino students. Donate cryptocurrency or cash today to help create a brighter future for our community.