Esperanza, Inc. (translating to “hope”) began in the early 1980s as a community project focused on improving educational opportunities for Hispanics by motivating and recognizing academic achievement through scholarships. While our roots are in advancing Hispanic educational achievement, our mission has grown to meet the evolving needs of the broader community in need. Our founders recognized early on that meaningful impact required expanding services and developing programs that support all individuals striving for educational success.
Esperanza awarded its first college scholarship in 1983. Since awarding just one scholarship that first year, Esperanza has grown steadily and now provides more than 100 college scholarships every year through the generous support of corporations, foundations, and individual donors.
In 1988, a permanent office was established, a mentorship program was developed, and the number of scholarships started to increase. In 1989, a dropout prevention program was implemented and endorsed by the Cleveland Municipal School District. The following year, the William Senquiz Endowment Fund was established in memory of Esperanza’s first executive director. In 1991, a strategic plan for the 1990s and beyond was adopted by the Board of Trustees, and the first annual Fiesta of Hope Scholarship Awards Luncheon was held. The retention and graduation of Hispanic students have always been a priority for community leaders, educators, and corporate partners who understand the impact of this population on the region’s growth and on the nation’s workforce. Today, that same commitment extends to supporting the broader community in need, ensuring that every learner has the opportunity to succeed and contribute to a stronger future.
Esperanza has taken a leadership role in advocating on behalf of all learners and developing and assisting in the implementation of educational policy statements. By establishing linkages between community leaders, organizations, and educational institutions, Esperanza, Inc. represents a model for overcoming educational barriers and ensuring quality education through community action.