Our Program
This comprehensive ten-week after-school program focuses on seven key initiatives that are intended to address and help provide solutions to the issues that impact adolescence 13-18 years old in our communities. We aim to have fun while arming these young ladies with the necessary resources. The first phase is the MBS initiative, which covers mind, body and self-care. The second phase is the F.A.C.E it initiative. This phase covers financial literacy, academics, career readiness and empowerment.
Mind, Body and Self-Care
Mind
Mental health matters. We aim to destigmatize the myths surrounding mental health and embrace the commitment to therapy. We are strongly committed to advocating for mental health awareness. Our weekly meetings will prioritize a space for emotional support to express feelings and experiences, engage with peers in a group setting fostering friendships and encouraging social interaction. This time will help build connections, learn from others and boost self-confidence. Our licensed professional counselor will help facilitate this vital space for our mentees. We have also partnered with a holistic licensed practice as a resource to provide optional private telehealth or in-person therapy sessions for our mentees.
Body
Through empowering sessions and engaging activities with a fitness trainer and nutritionist, we will teach the importance of nutritious whole foods that fuel the body and the importance of regular fun physical activity.
Self-Care
This exciting session is about nurturing oneself and developing healthy habits that contribute to overall wellness. We’ll introduce and cultivate practices of gratitude, positive affirmations, boosting self-confidence, healthy relationships, managing social media, as well as personal care.
F.A.C.E. it (Finances, Academics, Career & Empowerment)
Financial Literacy
Teaching financial literacy to our mentees is crucial in preparation for the responsibilities and challenges to manage money effectively in adulthood. We are introducing age-appropriate financial lessons that will provide a solid foundation for independent financial decision-making. We make learning about finances relevant by relating lessons to real-life situations that teens can understand such as budgeting for school supplies, saving for a desired purchase, or understanding the costs of college and student loans. We cover topics such as savings, budgeting, credit and debt management, taxes, insurance, and basic economics. The lessons are tailored to their age, interests, and level of understanding using interactive activities and games that teach financial concepts in a fun and hands- on way.
Academic Preparedness
Education is a catalyst for positive change across various domains, including empowerment, economic development, poverty reduction, health, social cohesion, peace, cultural preservation, and personal growth. Investing in education is not only an investment in individuals but also in the collective progress and well-being of societies worldwide. We aim to provide resources to help with scholarships, tutors, guidance to become partners with families to ensure our mentees are well-equipped for the life-long journey of learning.
Career Readiness
We encourage our mentees to explore different career options based on their interests, strengths, values, and aspirations. We provide access to career assessments, informational interviews, and career exploration programs. We promote career readiness by teaching youth about workplace etiquette, professional conduct, dress codes, time management, workplace communication skills and interview skills. We will also explore the benefits of entrepreneurship.
Empowerment
Our mentees will learn about leadership skills, community service opportunities and experience empowerment from women role models in different fields. We encourage our mentees to take on leadership roles, participate in extracurricular activities, volunteer in their communities, and engage in projects that develop leadership skills, teamwork, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.