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LEADERSHIP

About 

The Leadership Program provides vital support to the community through three key services. The VAMOS Youth Mentorship Program offers guidance to teens in areas such as mental health, education, and career development, helping them transition from school to adulthood. Benjamin Helping Hands addresses food insecurity by providing food, clothing, and hygiene products to families in need. Lastly, Vida Activa promotes health and wellness, offering activities that help families stay active and connected while learning about healthy eating. Together, these programs empower individuals to lead fulfilling, positive lives and contribute to their community.

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Mission 

To empower individuals and families in McDowell County by providing comprehensive support services that foster personal growth, health, and community engagement. Through mentorship, food assistance, and wellness programs, we aim to break down barriers and create opportunities for individuals to thrive, especially youth and underserved families.

Vision 

Our vision is to build a resilient, healthy, and connected community where individuals of all ages have the resources, guidance, and opportunities to reach their full potential. By promoting education, wellness, and social connection, we strive to create a future where everyone has the support they need to succeed.

Services

The Leadership Program enhances quality of life by empowering individuals to become confident leaders and active community contributors.

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VAMOS

The VAMOS Youth Mentorship Program was created to support young community members as they navigate social, emotional, and personal transitions. With a focus on six key areas—Mental Health, Physical Health, Education, Career, Civic Engagement, and Life & Social Skills—the program offers individualized guidance and peer support. Its goal is to help teens reach their full potential as they progress through middle school, high school, and into college and early adulthood.

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Program Coordinator:

Neyda Juarez​

learningtogether@centrounidomcdowell.org

The Hands of Benjamin program is our food pantry initiative designed to support families experiencing food insecurity in McDowell County. With a population of 40,000, 16% of residents live below the poverty line, and through this program, we provide food distribution, clothing, and hygiene & cleaning products. We partner with local food banks and farmers to offer fresh produce and support the small local economy. As part of CULA, we serve over 150 families, and we are deeply grateful for the volunteers who dedicate their time to assist with packing and distribution. To learn more about volunteer opportunities, please visit our contact page or reach out to our program director, Lorena.

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Program Coordinator:

Lorena workforce@centrounidomcdowell.org

Vida Activa, launched in the summer of 2021, was created to offer opportunities for the community to stay active, healthy, and socially connected, while recovering from the isolation caused by the pandemic. In addition to promoting physical activity, the program emphasizes mental health, offering self-care tools to improve overall well-being. Vida Activa also focuses on educating community members about healthy eating habits. The program has evolved into a youth and family-oriented initiative and has merged with the VAMOS Youth Mentorship Program.

Each summer, we host a variety of free activities, including hiking, outdoor sports, and family-friendly events. Stay connected with us on social media for updates on this year's events and the announcement of the program's start date!

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Program Coordinator:

Neyda Juarez​

learningtogether@centrounidomcdowell.org

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Benjamin Helping Hands 

Vida Activa

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Testimonial

"The therapies with Sanarai have been helping me to develop my self-esteem. They also have been helping me to navigate with my daily routines. I recommend women to take therapy with Sanarai, especially if they are going through menopause."

79 Academy Street
Marion, NC 28752

828-652-0727
 

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Mon - Fri

9:00 am  - 12:00 pm

1:00 pm - 5:00 pm

Saturday

Closed

​Sunday

Closed

To keep up with the latest events, updates, and news. 

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