WEST ASHLEY, S.C. (WCBD) – The Charleston Police Department has wrapped up another year of mentorship with Hispanic students at West Ashley High School. It’s part of a goal to strengthen the relationship with law enforcement.
What started as conversations about culture and community grew into months of mentorship for Hispanic students at West Ashley High School. In its second year, the Charleston Police Department’s Hispanic Mentorship class created a space for Hispanics.
“We wanted to show them that we’re here, we’re here to serve, to help, and let this young group of people know that despite challenges, you have a whole group of adults who care about you and want you guys to succeed,” Peter Guizar, CPD’s Hispanic Community Coordinator, said.
The Hispanic Mentorship Class helps law enforcement strengthen its relationship with two key demographics, youth and the Hispanic community, while providing the guidance, mentorship, connections, and lifelong skills to students.
One student from the class explained that when she needed a leader, CPD was there because of this class. “That’s what they’re doing. I wanted to do something, but I didn’t know how to, and they taught me.
Another student explained that the class taught her several lifelong skills she didn’t know prior to. “All the memories that we have in this class are because it’s been amazing; we have talked about a lot of things. How to improve in life and how to be a better person.”
Throughout the year, students heard from successful members of the Hispanic community and local business owners, demonstrating that with support, anything is possible.
“They have challenges, there is a language barrier, and we’ve had speakers come here who are business owners that don’t speak much English, but they’re very successful here,” Guizar said. “They were able to see that if that person can do it, I’m able to do it.”
One student explained she thought going to college wasn’t in her future, but CPD’s mentorship class helped her achieve that dream.
“That was one of my things I felt I was not going to be able to do because I’m an immigrant. But Peter [Guizar] was super supportive and told me I have to do it, I can do it. So I’m going to college.”
As leaders said goodbye to some students this year, CPD explained they’re already ready for next year’s class.
“For me, that’s going to be a big win. To know that the police department was part of something like this,” Guizar said. “We’re going to keep it going next year, we’re going to full throttle on that and just see where this goes.”
While Thursday’s celebration marked this year’s class, it’s not the end of the mentorship and support students can access through the Charleston Police Department, as plans are set to continue the class for a third year.
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