Our Approach

For more than 20 years, ABRACE has expanded its programs and strengthened initiatives that engage families, educators, and the broader community, while keeping students at the heart of everything we do. We believe that building a strong multicultural identity is a shared responsibility.

We recognize that heritage language and culture are transmitted and acquired through the dynamic interaction of many people and experiences. Families, educators, and the community each play an essential role, and their contributions intersect and reinforce one another. For this reason, our work is organized around three interconnected pillars—Families, Educators, and Community—with students at the center of the learning journey.

Families

Families are the heart of our association. We create opportunities for connection, guidance, and the exchange of ideas and experiences, empowering parents and caregivers to actively support their children's heritage language journey.

Students/Learners

Students are at the center of our mission. We provide meaningful educational, cultural, and social experiences that strengthen their Portuguese language skills while fostering a lasting sense of belonging to Brazilian culture and community.

Educators

Educators are the foundation of our work. We provide ongoing professional development, instructional support, and opportunities for collaboration, ensuring they have the knowledge and resources needed to inspire the next generation of heritage Portuguese speakers.

Community

Our community is both a source of support and the people we strive to serve. It includes not only enrolled students and their families, but also volunteers, educators, partner organizations, and supporters who share our commitment to promoting the Portuguese language and Brazilian culture abroad.

We offer heritage Portuguese classes in which students learn the Portuguese language alongside Brazilian history, culture, traditions, and the rich diversity of the country's regions.

Beyond the classroom, we provide ongoing professional development for educators, educational workshops and seminars for families, and organize annual Book and Cultural Fairs, along with many other initiatives that extend ABRACE's impact throughout the Brazilian community in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.

Our Goals

• Inspire pride in Brazilian heritage and encourage individuals to embrace their Brazilian identity.
• Support students, families, educators, and the broader community through an integrated and collaborative approach.
• Foster a culture of respect, diversity, inclusion, and belonging, ensuring a welcoming environment free from discrimination.
• Maintain responsible, transparent, and sustainable management across all areas of the organization, including finance, administration, human resources, and educational and cultural programs.
• Expand the reach of our programs by providing meaningful educational and community engagement opportunities to the Brazilian community throughout the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area.