Latino Development Organization
Our Programs
LDO Board and volunteers develop our programs in partnership with our Inmate Advisory Board (IAB). We work hand-in-hand to identify priorities for educational and cultural development. Below are some of the programs and activities that are held within LDO.
Spanish Class
LDO sponsors a peer-taught Spanish class for up to 20 participants per session. Students are taught fundamentals of grammar and conversational Spanish in a welcoming, inclusive learning environment.
Plaza Comunitaria
This program is taught in Spanish, and will provide Latino participants, including those who will be deported upon completion of their sentence, with a Plaza Comunitaria diploma corresponding to their completed grade level, issued by the Mexican government. This will enable the participants to benefit from greater professional opportunities when returning home. They’ll have a greater likelihood of leading positive and self-determined lives after reentry. Our Plaza program is currently in-development.
Group Gatherings
On Mondays at Twin Rivers Unit and Saturdays in Aberdeen, the LDO comes together to deepen and build community. Each session includes a group check-in and can also include time for social opportunities as well as either weekly lectures and offerings, guest visits, or cultural lecture series focused on history, race, and personal development.
Mentorship
Many of our participants are involved in a peer-led mentorship program which pairs inmates who have experience, wisdom, or skills in certain areas (such as math, writing, physical health, and much more) with mentees. Working together, they complete a certificate program to help bolster the abilities of mentees, build their abilities, and help them live a more productive and positive life behind bars.