Transforming Lives Through Education
Guadalupe Center embodies an important mission: ‘Transform Lives Through Education.’ Since 1966, the Center has been a beacon of hope for immigrants, refugees, and impoverished children and families in Utah, by providing the educational and community support they need to improve their lives.
The Beginnings: A Place for Community & Learning
In 1966, Our Lady of Guadalupe parish founded The Guadalupe Center on Salt Lake City’s west side with support from Father Jerald Merrill of the local Catholic diocese. What began as a gathering place for the city’s Hispanic community evolved into educational programs under the guidance of Suzanne Weiss. La Morena Cafe opened at the Guadalupe Center to provide food, fellowship, and job training for the Center’s participants. Proceeds from the successful restaurant funded further outreach initiatives in the form of the Adult Education program, which provided English as a Second Language instruction to recent refugees and immigrants.
Expanding to Serve Children & Families
Recognizing the educational challenges faced by her adult students’ children, Weiss embarked on establishing Guadalupe’s children’s program in 1970 with the Guadalupe Primary School, which has since evolved into the Elementary School we know today.
Acknowledging the significance of early intervention, Weiss helped to establish the Early Learning Center in 1992, providing vital programs such as In-Home Family Support, Toddler Transition, and Preschool. These initiatives highlight the center’s position as Utah’s first true community-school, addressing both the educational and broader family needs.
A New Home: A Stronger Future
In 2014, Guadalupe Center opened its new location in Rose Park, putting all five programs under one roof for the first time. Guadalupe Center now supports over 1,000 adults and children each year, providing vital resources to those facing the greatest challenges.
Empowering Our Community Through Education
As an institution of education, Guadalupe Center extends its outreach to students and families from communities that are often marginalized and excluded from mainstream social, economic, and educational spheres. Predominantly residing at or below the federal poverty line, these individuals grapple with food, housing, and employment insecurities. The language barrier adds to their challenges and prevents them from succeeding in traditional schools.
Through its five primary educational programs, emphasizing English literacy, Guadalupe Center equips students with a robust academic foundation while providing wrap-around support services to nurture their educational journey. At its core, Guadalupe Center is more than an educational institution; it is a steadfast and nurturing community that believes in providing equitable opportunities for all to lead fulfilling, prosperous, and joyful lives.