First Generation Programming Services
Welcome back, First Gens and Happy March! It’s a brand-new month, so you know what that means: a new theme!
This month, we’re bringing back an old theme, but one that always remains an important one. This month’s theme is all about Supporting First Gens. With the recent changes in administration, some of the organizations that provide crucial support to our community are at risk of losing funding. That’s why we must stay informed, advocate for their mission, and spread awareness about their impact.
As we know, navigating the education system as a first gen student is already challenging, and without these organizations that support us, it becomes even harder. Many of us face financial barriers, lack mentorship, and struggle with imposter syndrome. Unfortunately, this isn’t something we encounter only throughout the education system. We continue coming across these obstacles in our careers, finances, and personal lives. However, with the right support, first gens can thrive and make it through this. This is why I have made it my mission to highlight organizations and share resources that can help us all.
Supporting First Gens
This month, I am featuring some incredible organizations making a difference in the first-gen community. We’ve featured some before, so please feel free to check out those episodes! Our past organizations highlighted include More Than Bootstraps (E36), America Needs You (E37), First Gen United (E38) and Generation Fearless (E39).
Here are this season’s organizations to be featured:
- First Gen Forward – Formerly the Center for First-Generation Student Success, this organization provides research, resources, and professional development to help higher education institutions better serve first-gen students.
- First Gen Society – A national organization dedicated to fostering community, networking, and lifelong friendships among first-gen college students and alumni.
- Aspire Institute – Founded by Harvard Business School professors, Aspire empowers low-income, first-gen university students with leadership development opportunities.
These organizations offer mentorship, financial assistance, and community building initiatives that are invaluable to first gen students and professionals. As you explore these resources, remember to give yourself grace. If you’re just learning about these organizations, don’t be hard on yourself. Use this as an opportunity to reach out and see how they can support you. Whether you’re a student looking for scholarships, a professional seeking mentorship, or someone looking to give back, there’s a place for you within these networks. Until next time!
The First Gen Madrina/The Social Work Madrina
If you are a University, College, Company or Organization, The First Gen Madrina offers workshops on a variety of topics (such as imposter syndrome, time management, managing burnout, building a self-care plan, etc..), custom built mentorship programs as well as customized services tailored to your needs.
In order to follow along, remember to rate, review, and subscribe to The First Gen Madrina Podcast to stay connected. Also, follow on Instagram and LinkedIn @thefirstgenmadrina and Sara Diaz, LCSW. Sara acknowledges that the term first gen can be fluid, so The First Gen Madrina is committed to supporting all first gens! This isn’t just about breaking barriers—it’s about providing unwavering support that propels individuals to embrace life’s challenges and triumphs.
Also, in case you have missed it, I recently announced a new branch of The First Gen Madrina called The Social Work Madrina. The Social Work Madrina will bring intentional support to social workers and more programming on mental health. Within TSWM, you will find The Madrina Network: A Community for Social Workers!
The community will be kicking off in March, just in time for National Social Work Month! Our community deserves more support, guidance and resources.
Soooooo are you ready? Here are some highlights of the community!
Monthly zoom calls to discuss the successes, challenges and needs of the social work community.
Opportunity to network with fellow social workers from all over the U.S!
Monthly workshops with different social work-related themes.
Optional coaching time with me for additional support!
Stay tuned in the upcoming weeks for more information! Check out thefirstgenmadrina.com/themadrinanetwork for more information soon!
¡Hasta pronto!
