Universidad Popular

Organization Description

Universidad Popular was brought to life by a group of community leaders and educators in collaboration with Latinos y Latinas en Acción in the City Heights neighborhood with the mission of providing a space where Latino and Latina immigrants could convene and learn.
The program expanded into North County where it has flourished and continues to grow.

Universidad Popular uses popular education pedagogy; it presents the material through a culturally appropriate and responsive lens in English, Spanish and bilingual formats, which resonate with
participants’ histories and lived experiences. We employ Paulo Freire’s (1970) approach of dialectic interchange and kinesthetic learning. An essential element to the model is of empowerment and
connecting students’ learning with their role in creating positive social change.

Universidad Popular builds on a resilient tradition of resistance known as educación popular or popular education, meaning education of the people. This model of education is most commonly known as a liberating pedagogy through which an individual becomes aware of his or her personal experiences and how these experiences are connected to the larger society.

Program Information

Universidad Popular offers programs throughout North County with the intent of capturing community knowledge and fostering an appreciation for traditional know-how while strengthening family and community cohesion. Specifically, we are bringing families together for communal
learning where elders share wisdom about healing, crafts, farming, cooking, writing, etc. and youth teach technology, physical activity, multimedia, etc. The goal is to teach living skills and to learn from
each other. For us, it is about building self-reliance in a unique multi-generational setting and facilitating hands-on learning experiences.

Health & Safety
  • Must be 18 or older
  • Vaccinations

Community education classes are scheduled from 5-7pm. Students will work under direct supervision by site supervisor.

N/A
Additional requirements and/or considerations
  • Must be 18 or older
  • Vaccinations
Address 
261 Autumn Dr.
Suite 115
San Marcos, CA 92069
United States
General Phone 
(760) 659-0109
Website:
https://www.unipopular.org
Student Contact 
Name
Angelica Santiago
Job Title
Community Educator
Phone
(760) 845-2791
Email
angelica@unipopular.org

Current Opportunities

Title Program Start Date Location Type
Citizenship Program Service Learning Ongoing On-site
View all opportunities here
Program(s) 
Internship
Service Learning
Organization type 
Grassroots Organization (Nonprofit)
Focus Population(s)
Adults, English Language Learners, Immigrants/Refugees, Specific racial/ethnic/cultural group
Focus Area(s)
Arts, Culture, and Humanities, Civic Engagement, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Social Justice, Education, Food & Housing Security, Migration & Naturalization Services
Hours of operation 

Hours vary including evening and weekends.

Maximum students 
10