FAQ
Join and help build the community
EPLN's goal is to provide a variety of resources for students, teachers, and the community including our Mentorship program, Scholarships, materials for educators to use in class, and general academic and professional development content for young El Pasoans.
Stay tuned as we grow and develop our resources!
Our Organization
What are EPLN's main goals and values?
Our mission is the development of the community of El Paso, Texas through the improvement of its education, economy, government, and culture. Our network of service-oriented leaders is committed to investing time and resources in the prosperity of El Paso, Texas and its residents. Our vision is that by investing in the cornerstones of El Paso's future — education, economy, government, and culture — we can significantly elevate the quality of life for all the city’s residents. We reference the UN Susainable Development Goals (SDGs) to guiding our work particularly the following: - SDG 4 Quality Education - SDG 8 Decent work and economic growth - SDG 9 Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure - SDG 10 Reduced Inequalities - SDG 11 Sustainable Cities and Communities - SDG 17 Partnerships for the Goals
What are some of EPLNs Achievments?
EPLN is proud to have provided mentorship to students over the past few years and our continued growth. We have been redeveloping the mentorship program to what is now EPLN "Rising Scholars", hosted webinars made available on this site, provide career resources, and began creating online learning courses, and seek to do more for education and development in the region. We are pleased to have collaborated with other organizations, including Progress321. You can read more updates and what we have been up to on our "News" page under the Media tab.
How can I support or get involved in EPLNs work and mission?
There's a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes so wee appreciate any support we can get! As we run on volunteer work donations are a great way to support us so we can keep things like our website running! If you are interested in being more involved in our mission you can become a volunteer, apply to any open board positions, or intern with us and gain experience!
How does the EPLN Scholarship work?
EPLN is also proud to provide scholarships to EPLN mentors and Senior mentees who are currently or plan to attend a higher education institution. In order to be eligible, applicants must be part of the EPLN Rising Scholars program and demonstrate engagement.
How do the Learning Rewards work?
To encourage learning and participation we are trying out a new learning rewards program. You will earn points by engaging with learning content and courses on the EPLN website. We are working on expanding the program for virtual point and prize redemption. However, for the time being, you can only redeem your points at EPLN events.
What are Program Levels and Badges?
Levels and badges are linked to the "Learning Rewards" program. After collecting a certain number of points your level will increase. The higher your level the more your points will be worth when exchanging them for rewards. An added bonus for completing courses are badges. You get a different badge depending on the course you have completed. Some courses also give you a certificate of completion.
Our Programs & Resources
What is EPLN Rising Scholars?
The EPLN Rising Scholars program is a mentorship program open to all high school juniors and seniors regardless of academic achievement. High schoolers are paired with a mentor, usually a college student who will guide them during their Junior and/or Senior years to promote academic, professional, and personal development. While college readiness elements are included there is more flexibility in the mentorship program for mentors and mentees to adapt the focus of meetings based on the mentees individual needs and interests. Members of the scholar’s program have exclusive access to a network of current and past EPLN scholars and upon completing all the requirements will receive a certificate at the end of the program.
What are the courses offered and how do they work?
Available to students, schools, and the general public, this project provides online courses for academic, professional, and personal development. Some will be fully online where you can complete steps at your own pace, while others may have an in-person workshop and real-time webinars. Whenever you finish a course, you can get a virtual certificate of completion. We are currently working on our college readiness, civic education, and financial literacy courses and plan to continue creating more in the future.
What kind of career and professional opportunities/resources can I get from EPLN?
Our volunteers at EPLN have compiled a list of professional opportunities for high school and college students in the El Paso area which you can find under the resources tab. The lists will continue to be updated. You can also find volunteer opportunities with us here at EPLN through the tabs under "Get involved". Apply to intern with us, check for board member openings, even becoming a mentor can provide professional experience. Have something specific in mind? The EPLN Network will do our best to help you find job shadowing and volunteer opportunities here in the El Paso community and connect with individuals in the field.
What if I have a question about academic or professional development or just want one-time or occasional general guidance?
If you are a community member and are looking for guidance or more information in applying to schools, financial aid or other education relation inquiries we are happy to do what we can to provide information or direct you in the right direction. Contact us at contact@elpasoln.org or fill out our contact form.
What is EPLN+?
EPLN+ features all the educational videos and webinars hosted and created by EPLN independently or in collaboration with other entities. ​ Material currently and will cover topics such as: ​ Career Exploration Professional development College Readiness Financial Aid And more to come!
Does EPLN do Collaborations or Partnerships?
Absolutely! If you are a non-profit or other organization with a shared mission, or a school or district in search of more resources and opportunities for students and staff feel free to contact us to schedule a meeting.