When Northwest Family Services' East Multnomah Youth Prevention Team noticed Hispanic and Latino students experiencing increased stress and uncertainty, Prevention Specialist David Mercado took action by launching a Latino Student Union at a local school.

The group was created as a safe, welcoming space where students could connect, celebrate their cultural identities, and build a stronger sense of belonging. Through shared conversations, cultural activities, and community-building experiences, students developed new friendships, gained confidence, and found support from their peers.

Although designed with Hispanic and Latino students in mind, the group quickly became a place where students from all backgrounds felt welcome.

"I wanted to create a space where students could be their authentic selves," David shared. "A place where they felt seen, heard, and more connected to their community."

By the end of the school year, students were already asking when the group would return, a powerful reflection of the impact that connection, belonging, and community can have on young people's well-being.