Lexington is set to become the home of Kentucky’s first Plaza Comunitaria, a groundbreaking program that gives Spanish‑speaking adults a free, fully virtual route to earn educational credentials. The initiative, brought to Kentucky by Casa de la Cultura in partnership with Global Lex and the Mexican Consulate of Indianapolis, targets learners of any nationality or background who wish to start, continue, or finish their education.
Program details and goals
“It’s never too late to start,” said Monica Calleja, founder and executive director of Casa de la Cultura KY. The program offers support at every step, allowing participants to study at their own pace and earn anything from basic literacy certificates to a college degree, all without cost.
Basel Touchan, executive director of Global Lex, emphasized the breadth of the offering: “This program has great resources for even people who don’t know how to read or write…in the process we can even help people get a college degree.” The curriculum is delivered entirely in Spanish, removing language barriers that have historically limited access to higher education for many immigrant families.
Addressing a critical need
Touchan noted that a lack of credentials often locks qualified individuals out of good jobs. “We see many people walk through our doors who are well‑qualified but lack that piece of paper. This program will hopefully give them that opportunity,” he explained.
Soreyda Begley, board president of Casa de la Cultura KY, described the initiative as an investment in families: “It’s an investment that we’re making on ourselves. It’s incredibly important and can also serve as an example for our children.” Participants are encouraged to view education as a lifelong asset that cannot be taken away.
Community impact
Organizers anticipate that the program will do more than award diplomas. By empowering adults to achieve their educational goals, they hope to boost confidence, improve job prospects, and strengthen families throughout Lexington and the wider Commonwealth.
“Education is something nobody is gonna take away from you, no matter where you are. The education is yours and it’s an investment on yourself,” Calleja affirmed.
How to get involved
Interested adults can enroll through the Plaza Comunitaria website, which provides step‑by‑step guidance and virtual tutoring. The program is open to all Spanish speakers residing in Kentucky, regardless of immigration status.
Local churches, community centers, and faith‑based groups have already pledged to spread the word, underscoring the project’s alignment with family values and the importance of self‑improvement.
Looking ahead
Casa de la Cultura and Global Lex plan to track enrollment and graduation rates, aiming to expand the model to other Kentucky cities if demand grows. The partnership demonstrates how faith‑rooted nonprofit organizations can collaborate with government entities to deliver practical, life‑changing resources to families in need.
Original reporting: LEX18 Lexington (local) — read the source article.
