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Civic Leader Education & Advocacy Program
The Civic Leader Education & Advocacy Program (CLEAP), organized by Voces Unidas de las Montañas, a non-profit organization based in Glenwood Springs, is a one-week leadership and advocacy program that takes place outside the United States.
During the program, CLEAP participants engage in meaningful conversations with local leaders, field experts, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and federal policymakers regarding the pressing issues of the region.
CLEAP utilizes adult learning theory, as adults learn most effectively through hands-on experience and by observing the practical application of new skills or knowledge. Additionally, the program employs the Socratic method, which encourages questioning and critical thinking to promote the exploration of ideas and underlying assumptions. Lastly, CLEAP incorporates participatory action research, a qualitative research approach that involves collaboration between researchers and participants to gain insight into social issues and develop strategies for promoting social change.
Videos
2023 program highlights
2024 CLEAP press conference
May 08, 2024
Eleven Colorado Latino leaders were selected to take part of Voces Unidas’ one-week leadership and advocacy program in Mexico City, scheduled for May 28 through June 4, 2024.
During the program, CLEAP participants engage in meaningful conversations with local leaders, field experts, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and federal policymakers regarding the region's pressing issues.
2025 Program
Location: Mexico City
Dates: April 7-12, 2025
Program Fee: $299* plus travel expenses
Advance Parole: Program qualifies
Registration: Register now
Spots are limited. Apply now for the April 2025 program. If you need advance parole to travel, apply before October 15. AP takes at least 5 months to process.
Scholarships are available to cover legal fees for AP.
2024 Program Staff
2024 Special Guests
2023 CLEAP
Twelve participants were invited to take part in the inaugural program in Mexico City between July 3 through July 8, 2023.
The relationship between Mexico and the United States is complex, given a long history of economic, political, and cultural ties. The two countries share a border that spans over 3,000 kilometers, and millions of people cross between them each year for work, study, and tourism. Mexican-Americans are the largest group of Latinos in the U.S., making the ties between Mexico and the United States even more important. Politically, Mexico and the United States both deal with important public policies and issues such as trade, immigration, economic development, climate change, and security, with dire and direct consequences to the entire American continent but especially to immigrants and their extended families. This program offers an opportunity to engage in conversations with local Mexican leaders, nonprofit organizations, government agencies and federal policymakers about current issues.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CLEAP?
CLEAP is an affordable international educational program. The focus is on leadership development and creating a practical way for adult learners to learn about public policies and practice advocacy skills.
Who can apply?
We are looking for individuals who self-identify as immigrants and are interested in immigration policy. Priority is given to rural participants and DACA holders. This program is open to Colorado residents only.
How much does it cost?
Participants are responsible for the program fee, travel costs and any legal expenses for visas or advance parole. Voces Unidas provides scholarships to make program fees affordable. We also have limited scholarships to support travel or legal fees.