Ánimo

In Spanish, Ánimo denotes a call to action. It’s not a word that is easily translatable. It implies the act of reassuring, inspiring, or cheering someone on to overcome a challenge. Broadly, it means to have courage, to “Get up!”, “Get on with it!”, “Don’t give up!”. It refers to something or someone who stands strong in the face of adversity.

The word defines much of what makes our students and their families so exceptional. For many, the pursuit of college isn’t easy. The journey is often thwarted by the everyday experience of living in historically neglected communities with few resources to counter the impact of underemployment and high crime. Success requires determination, hard work, and the loyal support of family and friends. It requires ánimo.

Each year, nearly twice as many of our seniors graduate prepared to enter college as those attending neighboring schools. Their success, nurtured by the talent and tireless efforts of our teachers, leaders, and support staff, is built within our ánimo culture.

Green Dot opened its first school, Ánimo Leadership Charter High School, in 2000. Located in a neighborhood where only 3% of residents have a post-secondary education, the school now sends more than 90% of its graduates to college. However you translate it; that takes ánimo.

With ánimo, Green Dot courageously joins families and communities in supporting our students, inspiring them, and cheering them on towards greatness.