The Light and Leadership Initiative began as a collaborative effort between Huaycán locals and U.S. citizens. In 2007, Lara DeVries visited Huaycán for the first time, meeting with a local family. Upon returning to the United States, she began paperwork to found the Light and Leadership Initiative. Based on research including a subsequent visit in 2008 to speak with community members in Huaycán, it became clear education was the priority and the highest need for community members. Thus in 2008, the Light and Leadership Initiative established itself as a 501(c)3 U.S. non-profit, registered for educational purposes.  

In June 2009, LLI's first educational programs were offered to kids afterschool and on the weekends. LLI started with English, art and physical education classes, thanks to the help of local and international volunteers. These programs are still offered today! Many years later, and many challenges and triumphs, LLI is still going strong. They have now offered over 16,000 classes to women, children and teens... and they always look forward to the next 16,000!

There are many areas of need in the world, and in Peru alone. Reports in the past decade, including reports from the World Economic Forum and PISA, repeatedly list Peru as ranked last or second to last on a global scale regarding quality of education. These studies show that specific areas of need are Science, Math and Reading comprehension. A lack of resources, poor teacher training and methodology, constant curriculum change, mal-nutrition, and more, are all factors contributing to poor test scores and poor educational outcomes on a national level.

LLI sees all of these factors, some more than others, in Huaycán and from day one, members of the Huaycán community made it clear education was a priority for them and for their children. They believe opportunities can change lives and are glad they are working with Huaycán to bring change to hundreds of families.  

Mission
The Light and Leadership Initiative's mission is to respond to the needs of the women in the Ate-Vitarte district of Lima, Peru in their struggle out of poverty by improving the availability and quality of education offered to women and children. Through workshops and classes, women are empowered to better care for themselves and their families by improving both their physical and emotional well being, as well as advancing their skills in the workforce. Children are offered similar opportunities and learn the value of education and respect for one's community. LLI believes the women and children of the Ate-Vitarte district will become positive leaders for change through love, support, and education.