Before the new 2023-2024 school year begins, Norris Square Neighborhood Project (NSNP) would like to congratulate our 2023 graduates.

The graduating class of 2023 comprised five outstanding students: Isaac R. Colón Vazquez, Yajaira Orta, Yamaira Orta, Luisiany Rivera, Jeyvieris Suarez, and Joselyn Wyatt. While these students may have attended different schools, they all found themselves at NSNP’s after-school and summer programs. During their time at NSNP, they not only made connections with their peers from different educational backgrounds but also embarked on a journey of self-discovery while gaining valuable insights into agriculture and entrepreneurship.

All of our senior youth were involved in our Semillas del Futuro program. Semillas del Futuro is one of our two after-school and summer programs focusing on entrepreneurship, arts, gardening, and Puerto Rican culture.

Some of these youth were also involved in Raíces de Cambio, our garden apprenticeship program. Raíces de Cambio runs after school and throughout the summer like Semillas del Futuro but focuses on urban agriculture and food justice.

When NSNP asked its graduating seniors their favorite part about being in program, they met NSNP with caring and thoughtful responses.

Isaac Colón Vazquez shared how “no matter what, you will always feel at home,” echoing the feelings of other youth currently in our program.

If it wasn’t the NSNP environment that made them feel at home, the seniors shared stories about their connections with NSNP’s staff members.

“My favorite thing about NSNP is the staff. They [have] always been there for me,” said Jeyvieris Suarez, “They are always willing to listen and help if needed.”

NSNP is thrilled to see how our hardworking staff positively impacts our youths’ time in our programs. Let’s not forget our community’s support, as Yajaira Orta shares, has been instrumental in bringing us to where NSNP is today.

Orta said her favorite part of NSNP related to the community it is within, “My favorite part of NSNP is seeing people from the neighborhood and seeing support from them.”

While NSNP enjoyed hearing about the class of 2023’s favorite things in its programs, it also wants to know what is coming next. NSNP did not receive responses from each 2023 senior but would like to share the plans of those who responded.

Isaac Colón Vasquez is still deciding his next step but wants to continue learning about agriculture and plants.

Yajaira Orta has begun trade school to become a professional welder.

Jeyvieris Suarez is currently completing Fast Track at Community College Philadelphia and will then attend Widener University to receive a nursing degree.

Joselyn Wyatt will be in classes at the University of Southern California this fall, studying accounting and cinematic arts.

NSNP extends heartfelt congratulations to the Class of 2023 for successfully graduating from high school and completing their journey with our program. We’re incredibly proud of your achievements! NSNP has had the privilege of working with, getting to know, and share new opportunities and skills with these students that will continue into their futures.

‍Congratulations to the NSNP Class of 2023, and a warm welcome to the Class of 2024!