Project:  Machitia

"to learn" or "to teach"

Empowering Latine Youth Through Culture, Healing, and Education

At Cemelle, our programming is rooted in youth empowerment and cultural restoration. We believe that healing from systemic harm begins with identity, community, and access to opportunity. Our programs center Latinx youth impacted by the juvenile justice system—offering them tools, mentorship, and a sense of belonging as they reclaim their futures.

Proyecto Machitia

What is Machitia?

Machitia, meaning "to teach" in Nahuatl, is a co-curricular program designed for Latinx youth navigating the juvenile justice system. It offers a structured, culturally grounded space where students explore identity, build emotional skills, and gain academic and civic tools to succeed.

Partnership with Salt Lake Peer Court

Cemelle partners with Salt Lake Peer Court, a diversion program offering youth an alternative to formal incarceration. Through this collaboration, Machitia becomes an extension of Peer Court’s support—integrated into disposition contracts as a restorative, transformative experience. Youth not only fulfill court obligations but also receive culturally-rooted mentorship and growth opportunities.

Machitia Weekly Programming

Machitia runs over a 180-day period, with weekly sessions that include:

  • Interactive Lectures & Project-Based Learning

  • Identity Exploration through Nahuatl Language & Culture

  • Journaling, Reflection, & Emotional Regulation

  • Community Service & Civic Engagement

  • Academic Skill Building & Mentorship Circles

Program Goals

Machitia is designed to:

  • Support students in graduating high school and pursuing post-secondary goals

  • Improve attendance, emotional regulation, and academic performance

  • Reduce disciplinary actions and re-referral to the juvenile justice system

  • Strengthen youth leadership, self-awareness, and civic voice

Impact Metrics

We assess the program’s success through:

  • Intake and exit surveys measuring academic and emotional growth

  • Progress tracking toward disposition contract completion

  • Reflection journals, focus group feedback, and school attendance data

  • Long-term follow-up on graduation and post-Machitia pathways

Continued Mentorship

Growth doesn’t end with the program. Cemelle provides ongoing mentorship even after Peer Court timelines end—ensuring each youth has access to trusted relationships and critical resources for as long as they need.

Eligibility & Application

Target Youth: Latinx youth currently engaged with Salt Lake Peer Court or referred through community partners.

Enrollment: Referrals are accepted on a rolling basis in partnership with Peer Court staff.

Program Duration: Full academic year (August–June). Summer extensions may be available based on need and availability.

Requirements:

  • Youth must be referred through Peer Court or approved community partners

  • Commitment to weekly attendance and participation is expected

  • Intake session with youth and family required upon entry

How to Refer a Youth

To refer a youth to Proyecto Machitia:

  • Peer Court staff or partner organizations may submit referrals directly to Cemelle via our Referral Form or email.

  • For questions or support, please contact us at: info@cemelle.org