This spring, Despierta took the stage at SEED20—Charlotte’s premier nonprofit pitch competition hosted by Social Venture Partners (SVP) Charlotte—and emerged with two powerful wins: Second Place and the Community Vote Award, backed by a record-breaking 3,200 votes. This recognition not only affirms Despierta’s mission but also highlights the urgent need to support Charlotte’s growing Latina youth population.
What is SEED 20?
SEED20 is an annual program by SVP Charlotte that spotlights the region’s most innovative social entrepreneurs. Over two months, selected nonprofits receive coaching and mentorship to craft compelling three-minute pitches, culminating in a high-energy event where they present to a live audience and compete for cash prizes.
This year, Despierta stood out among the incredible class of 2025 by highlighting the urgent need for culturally-rooted support for Latina youth and families. Our pitch wasn’t just a presentation—it was a call to invest in Charlotte’s future.
In Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, 33% of students identify as Latino. Yet, far too many go without the emotional tools and family support needed to thrive. That’s where Despierta comes in. Through our programs, we work in Title I schools, guiding students from 6th to 12th grade through social-emotional learning, confidence building, and mentorship. But what makes us different is our whole-family approach—because research shows that mental health risks drop
by 60% when students have strong family support. That’s why our model includes parent workshops, therapy access, and long-term cohort support.
Since 2020, we’ve helped over 2,500 students and parents, and 90% of students report increased self-esteem and emotional resilience after completing our program. But the need is growing faster than we can serve it. Right now, more than 700 students across 16 schools are
on our waiting list—eager for the kind of support Despierta offers.
The recognition and support from SEED20 couldn’t have come at a better time. It’s helping us grow capacity, bring our program into new schools, and ensure no student is left behind. With this momentum—and with your continued support—we’re ready to expand our impact and uplift even more Latina youth in Charlotte.
Because when you invest in Despierta, you invest in a future that belongs to all of us