AMPT Spotlight: Telpochcalli Community Education Project (TCEP)
Telpochcalli Community Education Project (TCEP) was founded by a group of parents as a response to the lack of social, cultural and educational resources available to families in Little Village and at Telpochcalli Elementary School.
Although TCEP wasn’t formally recognized as a nonprofit until 2002, the community-based organization has provided empowering, educational opportunities to community members since 1998. From adult programs, such as GED, ESL and art classes, to teen programs, including a scholarship program for high school seniors, and programs for children, TCEP offers something for community members of all ages. By providing a variety of opportunities for families to get involved, TCEP is building collective power among the community to be more united, educated leaders.
One thing that TCEP Executive Director Maria Velazquez wishes others understood is how much time and effort it takes to build an organization with strong, trustworthy ties to the community. She recalls the first three years of her work were spent outside talking to community members to foster connections, listen to stories and figure out what their needs were. “All that work helped to increase the visibility of the organization. Building visibility and leadership takes a lot of time, effort, thinking, sharing and engaging people. One person doesn’t have all the answers, but the community knows what it needs.”
While COVID-19 surged through Little Village in 2020, TCEP mobilized volunteers to make over 200 weekly deliveries of food, diapers, thermometers and other necessities to neighbors in need. Last summer, TCEP parent leaders created “Cuidar Nuestro Tesoro” with the support and engagement of more than 40 local organizations. The awareness campaign was developed to help stop the spread of COVID-19 among the Little Village community and provide information about vital resources, like food and financial assistance.
As of spring 2021, volunteers are making nearly 60 weekly food deliveries, helping people register for the vaccine and providing technological assistance to those who are unfamiliar with new software and programs. TCEP continues to host its weekly programs virtually to nearly 250 participants and provides family mentorship opportunities based on their needs.
To learn more about TCEP, visit the website: https://www.tcepchicago.org/
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