Youth Report: The Girls' Circle International
Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of working with The Girls' Circle International. Founded by Michelle Jervis, LCSW over 10 years ago in the Bronx, NY. The purpose of The Girls Circle is to provide an intimate group experience that is a safe and also an educational space for young women between 12-15 years old.
This peer-group mentoring program helps support young women develop the necessary skills to deal with challenges and assists them in reaching their future goals. A sisterhood where members are actively engaged in learning projects, community engagement, activism, self-esteem building, and academic achievements. Members who graduate from the circle are welcomed to remain a part of the sisterhood in a peer mentoring capacity.
The Girls' Circle members can join a number of different programs from weekly group meetups focused around life and social skills to creating trust and team building. They also have the opportunity to participate in The Girls' Circle Summer experience where former members host a 3-week peer mentoring program at the Bronx Library. The group teams up to provide community services, join similar youth programs throughout the city, and explore the arts and museums during day trips.
The latest group experience was a visit to Classic Man Barber Lounge in the East Village for a private pampering event. The girls were treated to purifying skin facials, spa-like nail grooming (by yours truly), and hairstyling. The positive energy and sharing just flowed through the space organically. Excitement, laughter, and anticipation filled the room. It was very rewarding to see the smiles on their faces and hear the appreciation in their tones. We had the chance to bond over fresh fruit and vegan pastries with Cardi B playing in the background LOL. Classic Man Barber Lounge gifted a year of complimentary services to The Girls’ Circle Alumni. This event was organized by the DJ and media personality Tiff McFierce and Event Planner Erika Cardona of Events by Erika. Salon owner and hairstylist Regina Pearl was the cherry on top of a successful pampering event for Michelle and her girls.
Michelle Jervis and The Girls' Circle Alumni
As a reminder to us all, “young people are the hope of the future. Their passion and power can usher in an age of hope and respect for all people.” “I have always believed that, as young people with a mission, you cannot be defeated. This is because you were born to win! Therefore, take aim at your dreams and strive your hardest to make them come true.” – Daisaku Ikeda
