A unique initiative is set to take place at Clearfield High School, where students from the Latinos in Action (LIA) program are organizing a car show and pop-up market. Scheduled for Saturday, April 26, 2025, this event aims not only to raise funds but also to showcase student-led entrepreneurship. The gathering will feature an array of activities including raffles, vendor booths, live music, carnival games, and food trucks offering complimentary vouchers.

This community-focused event serves as a platform for students to develop their leadership abilities while contributing positively to society. Lori Bunnell, the LIA club advisor, emphasizes that the primary objective of the program is to inspire Latino youth to become active contributors within their communities. Students have been actively engaging with local businesses since fall, soliciting sponsorships and donations for raffles—a key aspect of the fundraising strategy. Their efforts reflect months of preparation, highlighting dedication and commitment towards making a difference.

Beyond the upcoming event, the LIA program offers an innovative approach to addressing educational disparities by fostering positive change within the system. Founded in 2001, it operates as a year-long elective course designed for middle, junior high, and high school students. At Clearfield, two active LIA classes each accommodate around twenty students who focus on mentoring younger peers, enhancing leadership skills, preparing for college or workforce entry, studying influential Latino leaders, and discussing issues like racism and discrimination. For participants such as juniors Jordan Davis and seniors Carlos Martinez, LIA has significantly boosted their confidence levels and encouraged them to pursue higher aspirations. Martinez highlights how involvement in the program expanded his horizons, enabling him to overcome shyness and embrace challenges ranging from purchasing his first car to applying for scholarships.

The essence of LIA transcends ethnic boundaries, welcoming all students eager to effect meaningful change. By nurturing self-assurance and providing opportunities for growth, programs like these underscore the importance of empowering young individuals to lead and innovate. Such initiatives remind us of the transformative power education holds when paired with community engagement, paving the way for brighter futures for everyone involved.