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Thursday, March 28, 2024

Gifts of guidance for girls

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Giving young girls a chance at success, one step at a time, A Girl’s Gift Inc. assists girls in grades 5-8 become strong leaders in their community. From forming their own business plan to teaching the importance of self-confidence, this one-week program has affected the lives of more than 100 girls since its establishment in 2009.

Created by Ericka Gibson and co-founder DeShong Perry-Smitherman, the duo wanted to use their acquired skills to give girls an opportunity that many never experience.

“I grew up in a house with seven girls and have three daughters of my own,” said Gibson who currently holds degrees in political science, Spanish and law. “As all but one of my sisters were older than me, I got to experience first-hand the many challenges that girls face. We believe that in order for a girl to reach her goals, she must not only have the necessary skills and tools, but she must also have the support and mentors to help her achieve those goals.”

Perry-Smitherman, Emmy Award-winning television producer, said girls should have a role model other than their parents.

“I was blessed with wonderful parents but it would’ve been beneficial to have another role model.”

This year’s participants will have a chance to take a photography class led by Gibson as well as learn about legendary photographer Ansel Adams through an exhibit at the Eiteljorg Museum.

Each girl will also learn the value of public speaking. Perry-Smitherman will educate the girls on how to present their ideas in front of others and communicate effectively.

“We can not impress enough just how important having a mentor is for girls at this age,” said Gibson. “The girls are experiencing all types of pressures: social, academic and emotional. Mentors lead by example. Some of our girls grow interested in careers, hobbies and interests that they never knew existed – all because they have a mentor.”

One project that is completed each year dedicated to self-confidence is the dream board. Using magazine clippings and other art supplies, the girls create a trifold board. This is a time for them to recognize where they are now, what they want to be and how they plan on achieving those goals.

Gibson said that she was extremely limited as a child when looking for a similar program until her mother discovered a curriculum that she continues to thank today for molding her.

“I knew that I had big dreams, but didn’t always have the resources, confidence and mentors to guide me in the right direction. I started this program to help girls feel good about who they are and what they can achieve. Most important, our goal is to equip girls with the tools necessary to be successful in all areas of their lives.”

Over the course of the program held July 21-27 at the Eiteljorg, the young ladies build an intensive business plan through developing ideas, marketing and branding.

“In past years the most popular businesses are cupcake shops, but one year a girl created an adjustable high-heeled shoe,” said Perry-Smitherman who challenges all girls to be creative and think outside of the box.

A business plan contest will be judged by local entrepreneurs and the winner will receive $100-$250 cash to start her business. The winner of a speech on a social justice issue pertaining to young girls will win an all-expense paid trip to Brussels, Belgium, for one week where Gibson currently resides.

“We believe that competition is important and we want our girls to learn that those who go above and beyond should be rewarded. They must learn to bring their ‘A’ game,” said Perry-Smitherman.

Shermika Duerson has had two daughters participate in the program the very first year and now has another daughter participating this year. She says the best part of the program was picking up her girls and hearing everything they had learned over the course of the day.

“It was so many new things they were learning and things that I knew would help them long term,” said Duerson. “It’s an interesting age because teenagers think they know everything. I kept telling myself it was worth dragging them out of bed.”

Duerson said there are other programs available but this one provides a unique experience where a group of girls can increase their circle of friends by meeting others from diverse backgrounds.

“It’s a non-judgment type of environment where the real reason they (the instructors) are there is to help. Looking back this is one of the things that I have exposed my girls to that had a very positive impact.”

Duerson said that she is still able to contact those from the program if she is in need of someone to speak with her daughters for any reason.

With spots left to fill, eight girls will be able to participate free of charge due to a grant sponsored by ExactTarget. The application deadline is July 7 and materials can be found at www.agirlsgift.wix.com.

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