10039903_MCM_OCT2021

To Feel Like a

The Sparkle Pink Girls Club is a nonprofit organization with a mission of building confidence and self esteem in girls aged 3-13, and empowering them to make better, bigger choices that set them up for a powerful life. Founded in 2007 by Deria Brown of Flint, it has grown to become a national organization with chapters in Michigan, Ohio, Wisconsin and Nevada. It all started Sparkle Pink Girls Club BY CHERYL DENNISON PHOTOS PROVIDED BY DERIA BROWN

g r lives.”This is when the idea of Spar kle Pink Girls Club (SPGC) came about, and Brown began working with girls at an earlier age. “I’m able to instill dominant thoughts,” says the club founder, “such as knowing your value, making good choices and establishing relationships with your mom or primary caregiver.” The organization also teaches about entrepreneurship and leadership skills. “It’s amazing what a three year-old can do!” Brown exclaims.

p ll important to Brown to reach out to girls at a younger age because statistics indicate that the suicide rate is up 13 percent for girls age 14-18. “That is alarming!” she exclaims. These statistics led Brown and her team to include the subject of mental health in the curriculum. t

when Brown and her husband were working with underprivileged teens in the City of Flint who were age 14 and older. “We realized that girls face a lot of different issues,” Brown states. “We wanted to address those

SPGC TEACHES SELF ESTEEM AND SELF CONFIDENCE.

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