Our Story
Operation Exodus was founded in response to the urgent needs of families in the Washington Heights neighborhood of New York City. The journey began when a concerned mother approached Luis Iza Jr., a local Sunday school teacher, seeking help for her son who was at risk of joining a gang. Moved by her plight, Mr. Iza dedicated himself to finding better educational opportunities for her child. This pivotal moment sparked the creation of Operation Exodus in 1988, aimed at investing in the lives of students and their families.
For over thirty years, Operation Exodus has provided a safe haven for more than a thousand Latino students, offering after-school programs, summer activities, and weekend support. The organization has witnessed countless success stories, with former students returning as accomplished leaders and active community members, proving that education can transform lives.