Explore Our Brazilian Culture and Portuguese Language Programs
At ABRACE, every gathering is an opportunity to strengthen sociocultural roots and nurture a connection to Brazil, even from afar. We offer a variety of programs for children, youth, and adults, with the goal of developing Portuguese as a Heritage Language (PHL), cultivating meaningful emotional bonds, and fostering a sense of belonging to Brazil.
Through educational, cultural, and community-centered experiences, our programs help participants celebrate their heritage, build lasting connections, and keep Brazilian culture alive across generations.
Explore Our Initiatives and Resources
ABRACE’s mission goes beyond language learning, integrating educator development, cultural experiences, and community engagement. Initiatives and resources like these foster a rich environment for learning, connection, and belonging, making ABRACE a truly unique community.
Calendar
At ABRACE, we offer a variety of programs and activities that give children and youth opportunities to learn Portuguese and Brazilian culture, while interacting, creating, and using their imagination in Portuguese.
Our Community Association
We may be far from Brazil, but we are never disconnected from our roots.
ABRACE, Inc. originally began as a project within the MBV – Brazilian Mothers of Virginia. An idea formed within the group to create an entity that could embrace (or in Portuguese, “abraçar”) the need our children, families and teachers to learn and promote Brazilian culture and Portuguese language. Through the efforts of the founders, friends and volunteers, in 2009 the project grew into ABRACE, Inc. At this point, the demand was so great that it was necessary to formalize and professionalize the project. As a result, ABRACE, the Brazilian Association of Culture and Education (Associação Brasileira de Cultura e Educação) was born.
Today, we invite everyone to join together in an “abraço” (hug in Portuguese). Together, we can cultivate the Portuguese language and Brazilian culture, helping to raise thoughtful global citizens who are proud of their heritage and connected to their multicultural identity, even while living far from Brazil.