Since 2001, La Semilla (the Seed) at New Life Centers has provided after school programming and education to students in the Little Village community. Each day the students are provided a nutritious meal, help with their homework, tutoring, reading instruction, character development lessons, gym time, art, cooking classes and technology time. Our program nurtures a safe environment for all children, recognizing the need of many of our youth to experience a respite from violence in the neighborhood.

We seek to instill a sense of community in our youth, help them feel a sense of pride in their neighborhood and inspire them to envision a bright future for themselves. As they learn new skills, they feel competent and capable; as they collaborate with peers, they build positive relationships and pro-social skills; as they exercise and play sports, they increase their physical health and reduce their risks for lifelong health problems like diabetes, obesity and heart disease.

“We are La Semilla. We are seeds of hope planted in Little Village rooted in God’s promise of restoration. Together we rest in God’s shade, knowing the sun will not harm us by day, not the moon by night. We are La Semilla.”