PROJECT SUMMARY
The eco-bio-developmental (EBD) model of child development promotes the use of evidence-based, integrated approaches for the prevention and management of adverse childhood experiences and toxic stress across the lifespan. The neurobehavioral effects of such exposures herald challenges in academic performance, social interaction, and emotional well-being. The disproportionate effects of toxic stress on the learning process contribute to fewer students choosing to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). This gap is exacerbated when coordination among service providers is limited and when adequate support networks are lacking.
We aim to promote and strengthen health self-management at both the individual and community levels by improving children's ability to understand and communicate their needs. The goal of the Semilla Program is to support children ages 9 to 12 as they explore the science of their own well-being.
The broader impact expected from Semilla is a healthy community, made up of children who act as agents of change for their own health, that of their families, and their communities. This change will result from the gradual strengthening and formation of direct links between educators, scientists, clinicians, and the community they serve.
This project was made possible by a Science Education Partnership Award (SEPA), Grant Number R25 GM137368, from the National Institute of General Medical Sciences (NIGMS), a component of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Its content is solely the responsibility of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official views of NIGMS or the NIH.
Quality results
Puerto Rican communities continue to suffer from disasters. Semilla brings health programs to children at Boys & Girls Clubs so they can learn in a safe space. Semilla's broader impact is a community equipped with self-care tools through resilience practices in the face of current and future events.
Partners
• University of Puerto Rico, Medical Science Campus (RCM)
• Mayo Clinic
• Boys and Girls Clubs of Puerto Rico
In collaboration with:
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Graduate School de Public Health
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BioMed Innovation Lab, Nutrition Lab
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The Hispanic Alliance for Clinical and Translational Research
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Center for Collaborative Research on Health Disparities (CCRHD) and more
GET TO KNOW US
Dr. Maribel Campos Rivera
Principal Investigator
"Semilla has a multigenerational reach by facilitating learning experiences that contribute to the knowledge of young people and their support networks from their communities, and facilitate exploration of the science of their well-being."
Dr. Christopher Pierret
Principal Investigator
Dr. Jorge A Martínez Rodríguez, MD
STEM +M Community Outreach
Camilla E. García Rivero
Fish Facility and STEM +M Community Outreach
Sarah I. Latimer Fantauzzi, BS
STEM +M Community Outreach
Ayelet Del Toro Comulada, BS
Data Management and Evaluation
Dr. Karen G. Martinez Gonzalez
Child/Adolescent Psychiatrist
Loyda B. Méndez Torres, PhD
Environmental Toxicologist and External Advisory Committee
Dr. Karen Weavers
External Advisory Committe Coordinator
Lyz E. Negron Mojica
Coordinator and Data Manager
Dr. Ingrid V. Rodriguez Rivera
Semilla Educator
Dr. Namir Jordán Díaz
Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Carlamarie Noboa Ramos
Evaluator
Dr. Edjean M. Calderon Cruz
Evaluator
Antonia L. Ortiz Rodriguez
Administrative Support
Mirka M. Collazo Valentín, PhD
Collaborator Branding and Scientific Communication
Keysha Rodriguez Alvarado
Educational Programs Manager BGCPR
“Educator and transformational leader with a mission to create opportunities for children and young people to discover their potential, believe in their abilities, and develop to be agents of change.”
Natalie K. Laboy Flores
Operations BGCPR
"Contribute to the Seed Project's mission by promoting community access, resulting in increased scientific and emotional knowledge, greater community engagement, and long-term positive change for club participants and their families."
Rebecca Roman Martinez
Educator BGCPR Arecibo
Rebbeca Galarza Peña
Educator BGCPR Las Margaritas
“To inspire and guide participants in their learning, promoting an inclusive and safe environment that fosters holistic development, critical thinking, and a love of learning.”
Iris J. Valenzuela Ojeda
Educator BGCPR Aguas Buenas
“As an educator, social worker, and counselor, I focus on empowering people and communities through inclusive education, innovative programs, and a collaborative approach to social growth.”
Janice Montero Arce
BGCPR Manager of Arecibo
"Education is the tool to transform the lives of those who risk seeing a world full of opportunities and growth."
José Santos
BGCPR Manager of Las Margaritas
Manuel Galindo
BGCPR Manager of Aguas Buenas
"My name is Manuel Galindo, and I am the director of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Puerto Rico, located in the Aguas Buenas unit. I have 13 years of experience in the organization, having served in various roles. I hold a master's degree in Physical Education, which has allowed me to enrich my work in the areas of management and leadership. Currently, I am responsible for managing proposals, leading teams, managing budgets, and ensuring the objectives established in the proposals are met."
Events
Date and time is TBDRegistro 2025-26Unete a la Comunidad Semilla y explora la ciencia de bienestar. Actividades de reclutamiento para participantes de los clubes de Boys and Girls Clubs en Arecibo, Aguas Buenas y Las Margaritas.
Sat, Apr 26Tierras Nuevas SalienteEvento de cierre año 2024-2025. Solo para participantes, familiares, invitados y colaboradores del Programa durante este año 2024-2025.
Contact us
Tel: (787) 758-2525 Ext 1139 | email: semillapr@outlook.com