Outreach360

Mission: To inspire and empower people to reach their full potential and give back by expanding educational, leadership, and service opportunities.

Outreach360 is a registered nonprofit 501(c)(3). We have been providing educational opportunities to students in Latin America and operating international service-learning programs since we were founded in 1994.

Outreach360 was founded in 1994 by Tom Eklund to provide educational opportunities and bring about positive change in the lives of children and communities in the Dominican Republic. Over the years, Outreach360 expanded to Nicaragua and offered a range of educational programs and service opportunities in both countries. Today, Outreach360 operates virtually to impact the lives of students across Latin America as well as volunteers from around the globe. Outreach360’s story is one of hope, perseverance, and a dedication to making a real difference in the world.

Our two main programs are:

Virtual Impact Program – This program connects volunteers from across the globe with our students in Latin America. Together, volunteers and students bridge cultures digitally and inspire and empower each other to reach their potential. We have various types of volunteer roles within this programming, including: Career Mentoring Session, Volunteer English Teacher, Serve & Sponsor Program, and Summer Teaching Fellowship.

Virtual English Academy – This is a rigorous, year-round, Monday-Friday virtual afterschool program that provides educational, leadership and service opportunities to children and youth in Latin America. All students attend on a full scholarship. Within this program, we offer:

• English Classes: Our students receive daily online English instruction from volunteers and staff. They participate in immersive English conversations with native and near-native speakers, complete homework, and improve their literacy skills through our online library and learning platforms.
• Enrichment: Our students participate in daily online English or Spanish enrichment activities led by volunteers and staff. These activities expand their horizons, promote critical thinking, and teach valuable academic and life skills. Our students also share in community, visit with guest speakers, and attend special events through our virtual platform.
• Life Prep: Our more advanced students take online college preparatory and/or vocational courses according to their interests. They also prepare for internationally recognized English proficiency exams and TEFL certification. In addition, they undergo leadership training and partake in mentorships, internships, and apprenticeships.
• Giving Back: Our older students give back by teaching English online to our younger students and leading enrichment activities online while supporting volunteers from across the globe. They also serve behind the scenes through special projects that contribute to our mission: student and volunteer recruitment, graphic design, communications, development, and more.