In Brazil, thousands of young people grow up in low-income communities with limited access to quality education or job opportunities. Instituto Reciclar is changing that.

This award-winning nonprofit transforms the lives of socially vulnerable youth through a bold, proven model of productive inclusion. For three decades, the organization has combined socio-emotional development, academic support, and job readiness to help young people recognize their worth, and shape their futures.

How They Drive Impact

Reciclar runs an interconnected set of programs for youth aged 14 to 24 that build the skills, confidence, and opportunities needed to succeed in life and work:

• Educational Program: A three-year model with technical courses (e.g., Nursing, IT, HR), creative project-based learning, and mentoring, all at no cost.
• Mentoring Program: Pairs students with professionals for personal and career development.
• University Support Program: Supports low-income students with scholarships and stipends to enter and persist in college.
• Technology Program: Combines hybrid learning with technical skills in coding and programming.
• Digital Learning Platform: Expands reach nationwide with interactive training in communication, English, and life planning.
• Public School Support (PAEP): Trains thousands of teachers in emotional health, innovation, and digital citizenship, benefiting over 300,000 students.
• Multiplication Program: Shares Reciclar’s methodology with other NGOs and educators across Brazil.
  

   

Why It Works

Reciclar blends rigor and humanity: it teaches real-world skills while nurturing each student’s potential. In 2024 alone:

• 99% employability at the end of the program
• 53,000 teachers trained
• 300,000 students reached
• 985 volunteers engaged

“I come from a place with few opportunities for youth. Reciclar welcomed me, believed in me, and changed my future.”
— Johanna Costa Sanches, Reciclar alumna and Production Engineering student

How You Can Help

Support this work by making a donation on the right. Contributions made to The Resource Foundation in support of Instituto Reciclar are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law. To learn more about Instituto Reciclar and how to get involved, please contact TRF at +1 (212) 675-6170.