WHAT WE DO
We help girls find their voice & talk about tough issues through art, music, writing, role playing and sharing.THE WORKSHOP
Middle School girls gather daily for a week-long program from 9:00 am – 3:00 pm. Small groups of girls work with facilitators (College and High School young women) who create a safe place for open sharing. Both large group and small group interactions occur. Outside professionals lead the group in yoga, dance, self-defense, exercise and outreach activities. Different colored T-shirts identify each separate group. During the week leaders address tough issues through art, music, writing, role playing and sharing.
WHAT WE DO:
- Find their VOICES
- Make FRIENDS
- Write STORIES AND POEMS
- Create ART WORKS
- Learn DANCE FORMS
- Train in SELF-DEFENSE
- Practice YOGA
- Share STORIES
- Reach out to OTHERS
- Engage in outreach for GIRLS IN POVERTY
WORKSHOP COMPONENTS
ART
The creative arts provide a way for the girls to express their inner self through artistic expression This results in psychological and emotional learning and healing.
MUSIC
Music is a whole body experience where every part of the body responds: feeling the beat, hearing the sounds and rhythm, and interpreting the words. Music can alter the girls’ mood, provide relaxation, stimulate energy and create an avenue for expression.
WRITING
Writing is a powerful tool to examine oneself through prose, poetry, or metaphor.
This activity expands the mind and allows the girls to reflect on their thoughts and activities, which helps uncover meaning in their experiences.
SHARING
Giving voice to something written is a pathway to being authentic.
The girls are able to share themselves in an accepting and loving environment,. Small groups allow trust to be more easily built. Once trust occurs, the girls feel comfortable in being themselves.
MOVEMENT
It is important for the girls to move their bodies as exercise is so important for good health.
The girls dance, run, practice yoga, and walk. These activities keep the girls balanced and energetic.
ISSUES COVERED
- Sort out confusing messages
- Recognize unattainable body images
- Prevent and deal with eating disorders
- Build self-esteem
- Deal with cyber-bullying
- Handle peer pressure
- Use technology appropriately
- Identify and wisely express emotions
- Hold on to their voices
- Tell their unique stories
- Stay true to themselves
- Make healthy choices