CESOLES: Creating Strong Roots for Children

Over two decades ago, a group of women decided their community needed real hope. And so in 2000, Centro Solidaridad La Esperanza or CESOLES was born to support vulnerable families in their road to a better life in Vereda Alto los Chorros. This community in Cali is marked by poverty, violence, and a lack of opportunities, and the street are filled with threats. Being safe is a challenge for children who must learn not only to survive, but also to imagine and built a different future for themselves.

To prevent these children from falling into drugs, abuse, crime or violence, CESOLES created an initiative that provides safe spaces for them to grow, develop and strengthen their abilities. This is done so via 3 strategies:

• Socio-emotional Education: Teaches children to channel their emotions, resolve conflicts, strengthen their self-esteem, and their ability to face challenging situations.
• Artistic Programs: Promotes creativity and fosters freedom of expression for children, becoming a refuge for them to share their stories, heal, and ultimately, dream.
• Academic Support: Provides children with the guidance to keep learning, improving their academic performance, and keeping them in school.

In CESOLES, they believe that when a child lays down strong roots and feels secure, they are able to grow even in the harshest environment. That’s why every encounter, every activity, and every word is a seed for hope and transformation.

CESOLES’ goal is to create an environment where children and teens in difficult sitations are able to put down their roots. By providing these children with the proper support, CESOLES cultivates their talents, builds up their confidence and helps them follow their dreams. That way, the children can grow, bloom, and transform their realities.

With your support, each root is strengthened! And with your help, every child can grow up with dignity and real opportunities for their present and future.

To learn more about CESOLES and their work, click here.