Mentors Are There For GIRLS
By Kim Ledoux
Contributing Editor, SouthCoast Today
(Excerpt)
NEW BEDFORD - Growing up can be confusing and even a little scary, but the after-school mentoring program Great Intelligent Respectful Ladies of Success (GIRLS) gives female students at Keith Middle School a place to turn when life gets complicated.
"Professional women from all walks of life volunteer their time every Wednesday to be here and talk with the girls," said Keith Middle School Turn Around specialist Paula Benedetti. "Each week we have a different topic to discuss. It is a safe and healthy place for them to talk about their concerns, and the women from the community really enhance the discussion."
Ms. Benedetti started the program six years ago with funding from the Women's Fund of the Community Foundation of Southeastern Massachusetts.
Last year she was joined by 28-year-old Jennifer Laleh, a Dartmouth High School graduate and attorney who has written a book called "Girl Talk."
"While mentoring girls during my last year of law school at Pepperdine University, I saw that many girls really need someone to talk to and answer their questions," Laleh said. "I interviewed hundreds of girls in the L.A. area and came up with the book 'Girl Talk' which answers their real questions."
On a recent Wednesday afternoon, 14 girls came bounding into a classroom to meet with their mentors.
That day's topic, "Affirmations," was led by Laleh and focused on turning negative into positive self talk.
"I used to think bad about myself. Now I don't think as bad as I used to. In many ways, I'm a great girl," said Danessa Soto, 12, who has had to deal with medical issues that affect her self-esteem.
"This group helps me express my feelings instead of keeping them bottled in, which is not so good," said student Rachel Ocasio.
"I like the way when I talk to you, you listen to me and you don't judge me." ~Rachel, Grade 7
"I like you because you're a great role model and a leader. And I think you're very smart and you have a great personality. I love you Jen." ~Danessa, Grade 7
"I like you because you help me when I have boy problems and you make me feel good about myself." Jazenia, Grade 7
"I like Jennifer because she's a good role model and a good listener." ~Mariah, Grade 7
"You are a sharing and generous person who has brought joy to our mentoring program - You have helped me a great deal - We have become very close and I wish you the best." ~Paula, Workshop Director
"Thank you sooo much for volunteering for Girls Mentoring! Because of you I feel much better talking about my problems and my life. You have the best advice and now I don't worry about the past anymore. I guess I needed to talk to someone who cares, and you were the ONE! One thing I love about you is your personality. You are an inspiration. I LOVE YOU." ~Alexis, Grade 7
"I like you and you're special to us, because you've taught us so many things. You're smart, nice, and pretty. Thank you for everything!" ~Amber & Jaelyn, Grade 7
"Thanks for taking your time for us, and thanks for your positive advice. You've helped a lot and we're going to miss you." ~Ivette & Diana, Grade 8