Dolores Huerta Institute
The Dolores Huerta Institute (DHI) is an advocacy-based, culturally competent, civic education program that equips students with essential skills and knowledge for active engagement in Washington state government, lobbying, and politics. Through our comprehensive curriculum, students not only gain a deep understanding of the intricacies of state governance but also cultivate strong advocacy and leadership abilities. Our commitment extends beyond mere education; we see ourselves as catalysts for empowering the next generation of leaders. Moreover, DHI goes beyond traditional civic education by integrating college readiness as a service, ensuring that students are not only prepared to participate in civic life but also equipped with the academic and practical skills needed for success in higher education and beyond.
The program is offered through partnerships with high schools and colleges. Our summer program is open to all students over the age of 18. All accepted students will receive a $200 stipend after the completion of
the program, eligibility for scholarships at Mi Centro, career/academic support, and much, much more!
How we can help
Scholarship and College Application Guidance
DHI offers individualized guidance through the scholarship search process and assists students with college applications, helping them identify opportunities that align with their academic and career goals.
Financial Aid Support
Students are assisted in navigating the financial aid process, including completing FAFSA and WASFA applications, to ensure they access the necessary funding for their education.
Career Exploration
DHI helps students explore different career paths and supports those interested in apprenticeships by referring them to appropriate programs. This guidance helps students make informed decisions about their future careers.
Collaboration with Local High Schools
DHI partners with local high schools to support their efforts in promoting fast completion initiatives. This collaboration ensures that students are receiving the support they need to complete their high school requirements on time and be well-prepared for their next steps in higher education or career paths.
Learn about DHI Cohorts
Civic engagement cohorts are designed to engage students in civics education and advocacy training, fostering leadership and political involvement. Through this program, students gain hands-on experience in the legislative process and learn how to advocate for policies that promote equity and justice, particularly for the Latino community.
Legislative Education and Advocacy Training
The Civic Cohorts curriculum is designed to be interactive and engaging, allowing students to simulate legislative sessions through activities, lectures, and committee simulations. Students learn about the state’s policy and political systems, including how laws are made, the historical inequities in legislative participation, and the various ways they can get involved in advocacy.
Guest Speakers and Career Exploration
Throughout the program, students hear from elected officials, professionals, and community leaders, learning about different career paths in public service and advocacy. This exposure helps students explore potential careers and develop a deeper understanding of the opportunities available to them in politics and policy work
Cohort Structure and Participation
The Civic Cohorts are offered in two primary sessions—one in the summer and one in the fall. Each cohort serves 20-30 students and is bilingual as needed. Students are recruited through partnerships with local academic institutions such as UW Tacoma and Pierce College, where the cohorts are advertised to student clubs and academic programs. In some cases, students can even earn academic credit for participating in the program.
Mi Centro Scholarships
Scholarships are available for DHI alumni and DACA students!
David Almonte Memorial Scholarship
The David Almonte Memorial Scholarship is named after a former Mi Centro board member and is available to graduating or recently graduated seniors from any high school in Tacoma Public Schools district. The scholarship supports students who share David Almonte's values of leadership, advocacy, and service.
Dolores Huerta Institute Scholarship
Mi Centro's Dolores Huerta Institute (DHI) is a civic education program that educates students about Washington State government, advocacy, and lobbying with cultural competence. The program is name in honor of Dolores Huerta, a renowned Latinx civil rights leader and a close friend of Mi Centro's executive staff.
Mi Centro Survivor Scholarship
Mi Centro is dedicated to providing comprehensive support services for victims of domestic violence and their families. These services, including the Mi Centro DVA Scholarship, reflect the organization's commitment to serving those impacted by this hidden crisis.
Recognizing Academic Excellence
Each year, we recognize students who embody excellence, resilience, and dedication. We are proud to showcase the recipients of the 2024 David Almonte Memorial Scholarship, who inspire others with their achievements and commitment.
Financial Aid Information
FAFSA
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a form that students in the United States fill out to apply for financial aid for college or graduate school. It’s used to determine a student’s eligibility for federal financial aid, including grants, work-study programs, and loans. Many states and colleges also use FAFSA data to award their own financial aid.
The application collects information on the student’s and family’s financial situation, which helps determine how much they’re expected to contribute to college expenses. Completing the FAFSA is free and is an essential first step for students seeking financial support for higher education.
WASFA
The Washington Application for State Financial Aid (WASFA) is an application for students in Washington State who are ineligible for federal financial aid (FAFSA) due to immigration status, such as undocumented or DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) students. The WASFA allows these students to apply for state financial aid, including grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities.
The application is specifically for Washington residents and is administered by the Washington Student Achievement Council. It’s designed to help ensure that eligible students have access to financial resources to support their college education, even if they cannot apply for federal aid through the FAFSA.
To apply for the programs below, please use one of the applications above.
Washington College Grant
The Washington College Grant (WA Grant) is one of the most generous and flexible financial aid programs in the country. People of all ages from low- and middle-income families may qualify to get money for college, career training, and participating apprenticeships. Funding is guaranteed to eligible students.
College Bound
College Bound provides an early commitment of state financial aid to eligible students from low-income families.
Interested?
To learn more about this program or to partner with MiCentro, contact our team: