Q & A with Morlunda Brooks, Director of Girls Inc. at the YWCA
How many girls does the YWCA serve with the Girls Inc. program?
180
How often do the girls meet? Where do they meet?
The girls at each school meet once a week during their related arts period or independent study time. Girl Inc. sessions are held at Brick Church, Jere Baxter, and West End Middle School during the school hours.
Can you describe a few of the girls' favorite activities from the curriculum? What is most fun for them? What is most challenging?
The most enjoyable as well as challenging activities for the girls is role playing. Role playing allows the girls to put what they have learned into action. Having to think of responses that do not sound scripted, aggressive, or passive can be challenging for the girls.
Girls Inc. encourages the participants to communicate with their family members about issues they are facing. How are parents involved in the program?
Girls Inc. participants are encouraged to share what they have learned with their parents to promote and encourage communication.
Why is Girls Inc. at the YWCA an important contribution to the Nashville community?
Through our diverse and creative curriculum, we make sure that our girls are prepared to meet and overcome challenges they face while growing up in this ever-changing world.
Judging from your interactions with students in the program, how is Girls Inc. changing girls' lives?
Girls Inc. participants develop the skills that they need to be successful in life and accomplish their dreams.
What's your favorite part about being involved in Girls Inc. at the YWCA? Can you share any anecdotes about how the program has changed lives?
I think Girls Inc. is cool because we can share how we feel. We can talk about all that we want and most of all, we have fun!! I’m really glad I joined Girls Inc. at the YWCA. You answered so many of my questions. I’m really thankful for that. I promise to be successful in life. Thank you! You really make my day! - Lindsey Moses, 7th grader at Brick Church Middle School
Last year nine girls from the program got to go on a trip to Atlanta. Are you planning any trips this summer?
Yes, we are in the planning stage now.
How can donations to the YWCA contribute to Girls, Inc.?
All donations to the Girls Inc. at the YWCA program will continue to help the next generation of young girls reach their full potential.