About us
We are dedicated to enriching the lives of underserved youth by offering not just education but also programs in music and the arts. This comprehensive program was designed by Larry Reed, a retired parole officer who made a significant impact working in Watts, California. Drawing on his extensive experience, Larry Reed created a program that nurtures unique abilities, strengthens self-belief, and prepares young people for success in all areas of life. His vision and commitment continue to inspire our efforts to provide holistic support and opportunities for youth.
Our Approach
We believe that a comprehensive educational experience can make a significant difference in the lives of young people. By fostering an environment that encourages intellectual growth, creativity, and physical well-being, we aim to enhance focus, boost academic performance, and support overall development.
Our Success
Stories
Our impact is exemplified by the success of individuals like Shaun Ali Suttle. Starting his musical journey at age 15, Shaun has grown into a successful musician and teacher. His story highlights the effectiveness of our program and the vision of our founder, Larry Reed.
Our Vision
Desiderata Institute is driven by a vision to provide high-quality educational opportunities to as many young people as possible. We are committed to making a meaningful impact by fostering an environment where youth can excel academically, artistically, and athletically.
Get Involved
Join us in our mission to make a positive impact. Whether through donations, volunteering, or spreading the word about our program, your support helps us continue our work and reach more youth in need. Together, we can help shape a brighter future for the next generation.
The "Right Track" Program
The "Right Track" program is a residential initiative by the Desiderata Institute. It's a charitable effort designed to support underserved and underprivileged youth (ages 14 to 16) through a focus on the "three A's": Academics, Arts, and Athletics.
1. Academic is vital for our future and should be valued like currency. We want to create a learning environment that blends education with the social skills needed to thrive.
2. The Arts used to be a key part of our culture. We aim to tap into young people's creativity to help boost their academic success, understanding that arts can make a real difference.
3. Athletics is about connecting the mind and body. By combining Academics and Arts with physical activity, we help youth develop strong minds and bodies. Playing musical instruments also sharpens their hand-eye coordination and fine motor skills, which are valuable for becoming great athletes. We focus on building teamwork, discipline, and resilience, essential for success both on and off the field.
Through these areas, we hope to offer a lively, engaging alternative to traditional education. We've planned some creative approaches, with a special focus on music, since studies show that learning music helps improve concentration.
We also plan to set up a baseball academy and other sports programs. We have a patented batting cage that provides training and tracks performance stats.
To make the "Right Track" concept work, we need to start early in these teenagers' lives, as they're entering an age where risks increase